Traditional Chinese Herbs

Warning: The following is not sanctioned nor is it suggested practice. The recipes are not the property nor their use the medical advice or opinion of Pacific University, the MCEL or its staff. The following are merely presented as possible suggestions for use but are in no way encouraged. We accept no liability and no responsibility for those who may wish to try, experiment with or use the following information. Use them at your own risk, and only under the direct supervision of a medical professional.

Some of these common herbs can be used for headaches, throat problems, and coughs. They may be made into teas, tonics, and oils. This is a list of common herbs; please click to find out more:

Astragalus -This herb helps build up the body's defenses. It acts against sleepiness, diarrhea, and creates an appetite. This is known as Huang Qi in China, where it is thought that it helps "stabilize the protective Qi." These days it is commonly used to help Aids patients. Back to the top.

Chinese angelica-This is considered to be one of the most beautiful herbs. It helps with blood health and is often taken by menstruating women, women after childbirth, and people who have extreme blood loss. It solves constipation rapidly. Avoid taking it if you are experiencing diarrhea. Back to the top.

Chrysanthemum Flower-This herb can be used to heal eye problems such as red eye, dryness, blurred vision, and spots. After a long day at the office this may help you relax and enjoy the rest of your evening. Back to the top.

Cleavers-If you are interested in tonics, this herb is the best one for you. it is great for the throat, focusing on your glands. It is also great for your skin and has been linked to healing ulcers and tumors. Back to the top.

Coltsfoot-This is a fabulous herb for dealing with respiratory problems. To beat an annoying cough, bronchitis, or asthma coltsfoot is your key to a quick recovery. Back to the top.

Comfrey-It is advised that this herb should not be used for long periods of time. It can help with fractures as a compress or poultice. Some ulcers can be cured with Comfrey, as well as certain respiratory problems. Back to the top.

Dandelion-This is a great way to get your daily dose of potassium. It also helps cleanse the liver and gallbladder. It is also a treatment for constipation.Back to the top.

Echinacea-Sometimes known as coneflower, black Susan, or Sampson root, this helps clear up bacterial and viral infections while strengthening your immune system. It is known as a natural antibiotic and can even be used for rattlesnake bites. Back to the top.

Elderflower-When spring arrives, A lot of allergy suffers may wish they knew about the wonders of elder flower. It can help clear up sinus infections, hay fever, and colds. Back to the top.

Elecampane-This herb commonly grows in Great Britain and mainly focuses on healing coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and chest colds. This an excellent herb to use with children, and in the past has been used for tuberculosis. Back to the top.

Fennel-This is another herb commonly used for cooking, but it can be used to get rid of nasty gas problems and increase your appetite. It also revives tired, sore eyes by using a compress. Back to the top.

Ginseng-This may be tremendously familiar nowadays because of the national campaign on television. Ginseng has actually been used for thousands of years to help people revive. Taking ginseng in the long run may help with fertility and longevity. Please check out the ginseng web site at http://www.ginseng.com Back to the top.

Golden Seal-Found in North America and well known for clearing out your entire body, Golden Seal has become a popular herb in the nineties. It is not advisable to use this for long periods of time, but it can help rebuild your appetite, flush your body, and prevent infections. Back to the top.

Lavender-You may go to a potpourri store and find this scent, but the flower maybe used as an herbal remedy. It can heal headaches, and may help with depression, and stress. If you find that you are sleepless, lavender can help you rest through the night. Back to the top.

Lemon Balm-Sometimes known as bee balm, dropsy plant, or balm mint it has a variety of uses: digestive properties, stopping spasms in the stomach (especially because of stress), and helping with heart problems. It may also lower fevers and blood pressure. Back to the top.

Licorice- Often used to flavor candy, it can be used in herbal form to help heal bronchitis and stomach problems like cramps, ulcers, and colic. Back to the top.

Marigold-Mostly used as a external remedy, marigold can quickly clear up rashes, inflammations or common cuts. The marigold flowers and petals may be used in compress form, or taken in a tea to help the reproductive system, easing menstrual pain, and prevent gallbladder problems. Back to the top.

Nettle-This herb grows wild all over the world. It has A lot of uses, but specifically helps the urinary track, skin health, and the reproductive organs. Look out Rogaine the root is now being used to help reduce hair loss. Back to the top.

Passion-flower-If you are having trouble sleeping or your are experiencing high stress, this herb may help you relax. It helps relax muscles and aids in treating asthma. Back to the top.

Roman Chamomile and German Chamomile-This herb can be found in almost every supermarket in tea form. It helps reduce inflammation, muscle problems, menstrual cramps, and serves as a sedative. Gargle with chamomile to help with gingivitis and cold sores. Back to the top.

Sage-Commonly known as garden or red sage it has A lot of kitchen uses as well as healing possibilities. It can be made into a mouthwash to help with gum disease, tonsillitis, and mouth ulcers. It can also slow the production of breast milk, help relieve gas pressure and pain, and force you to sweat. It is used by Native Americans as a incense to scare away evil energies. Currently it appears in American culture as incense burned for its scent. Back to the top.

Thyme-This is one of the herbs which grows naturally through out the world. Often used by fine chefs around the world, those digesting the sweet food may not know that it is helping them digest the rich food they just finished. Back to the top.

Valerian-To get that much needed sleep, this herb may be able to help. It will also reduce muscle spasms, and prevent muscle cramps. You should consult your herbalist because valerian should not be taken for long periods of time. Back to the top.

Vervain-Currently available in tea form in most of Europe it helps calm and relax your body. After a long cold it helps rebuild your immune system. Back to the top.

Yarrow-Used in the form of a powder or infused on burns for years by Native Americans to heal wounds, Yarrow is commonly smoked, or used as an incense to keep negative energies away. It may also help lower blood pressure. Back to the top.