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| muscular tension and, as many are also nervines, ease psychological tension as well. There are antispasmodics that reduce muscle spasms throughout the body and also those that work on specific organs or systems. |
| Astringents have a binding action on mucous membranes, skin and other tissue, due to chemicals called tannins. They have the effect of precipitating protein molecules thus reducing irritation and inflammation, creating a barrier against infection that is helpful in wounds and burns. |
| Bitters are herbs with a bitter taste, with a special role in preventative medicine. The taste triggers a sensory response in the central nervous system. A message goes to the gut releasing digestive hormones leading to a range of actions including the stimulation of appetite as well as flow of digestive juices; an aid to the liver's detoxification work and an increased bile flow. Bitters also stimulate gut self-repair mechanisms. |
| Cardiac remedies have a beneficial action on the heart. Some of the remedies in this group are powerful cardioactive agents such as foxglove, whereas others are gentler, safer herbs such as hawthorn and motherwort. |
| Carminatives are rich in aromatic volatile oils that stimulate the digestive system to work properly and with ease, soothing the gut wall, reducing any inflammation that might be present, easing gripping pains and helping to remove gas from the digestive tract. |
| Demulcents are rich in mucilage that soothes and protects irritated or inflamed tissue. They reduce irritation down the whole length of the bowel, reduce sensitivity to potentially corrosive gastric acids, help to prevent diarrhea and reduce the muscle spasms which cause colic. They also ease coughing by soothing bronchial tension and relax painful spasm in the bladder. |
| Diaphoretics promote perspiration, helping the skin eliminate waste from the body, thus helping the body ensure a clean and harmonious inner environment. Some pro- |
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