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| the body of parasites. The following are categories of use in treating heart disease and circulatory problems. |
| Adaptogen herbs bring the body into balance, raising low blood pressure, lowering high blood pressure, speeding a weak, slow pulse, slowing a too-rapid pulse, and so on. Adaptogens are the most recently defined herb classification. Examples: Ginseng, Siberian ginseng and astragalus. |
| Alterative herbs work gradually to restore normal body functions. Often called blood cleansers, they help repair the entire body, not just specific organs; they also help neutralize acidic conditions in the body and aid in protein assimilation. Alterative herbs are usually rich in vitamins and minerals. Examples: Burdock root, red clover, stinging nettle. |
| Astringent herbs cause local contractions of the skin, blood vessels or other tissue; they have a drying influence. Most astringents contain tannins. Examples: Crampbark, horse chestnut. |
| Diuretic herbs increase the production and flow of urine and are used to treat fluid retention (edema). Unlike prescription diuretics, these herbs are gentle, have few if any side effects and do not disrupt the body's mineral balance. Examples: Parsley, parsley seed, dandelion, cornsilk. |
| Nervine herbs calm and soothe the nerves, reducing tension and anxiety. Examples: Chamomile, oatstraw, kava kava, passionflower, skullcap, valerian. |
| Rubefacient herbs stimulate capillary dilation and action, causing skin redness and drawing blood from deeper tissues and organs. For this purpose, these herbs are applied externally. Examples: Cayenne, ginger, mustard. |
| Stimulant herbs increase the activity or efficiency of an organ or system, such as digestion and circula- |
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