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HERBAL GLOSSARY

Welcome to Healing Hokte's Herbal Glossary, where we explore the natural ingredients found in our herbal smokes and tinctures. Discover the healing properties and benefits of these Indigenous herbs and botanicals.

Description: A flowering plant with feathery leaves and white to pink flowers

Benefits: Wound healing, reduces fever, supports digestion.

Therapeutic Properties: Astringent, diaphoretic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in traditional medicine across the world for wounds and as a fever reducer.

Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy; may interact with blood thinners.

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Yarrow (Achillea millefolium)

Description: A perennial herb with spikes of purple flowers and a long history of medicinal use.

Benefits: Reduces headaches, supports nervous system health.

Therapeutic Properties: Nervine, mild sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Revered in medieval Europe as a virtual cure-all.

Contraindications: Rarely, may cause gastrointestinal upset.

Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)

Wood Betony (Stachys officinalis)

Description: A perennial plant with sweet-smelling pink or white flowers.

Benefits: Promotes sleep, reduces anxiety.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, anxiolytic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used since ancient Greek and Roman times as a sleep aid.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives; some people experience paradoxical agitation.

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Valerian Root (Valeriana officinalis)

Description: Known for its sweet, vanilla-like scent and use in Native American ceremonies.

Benefits: Spiritual uplift, antimicrobial.

Therapeutic Properties: Aromatic, mild sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Burned as a purifying incense in various indigenous ceremonies.

Contraindications: Generally safe; use with respect for its cultural significance.

Sweetgrass (Hierochloe Odorata)

Sweetgrass (Hierochloe Odorata)

Description: A perennial herb with tiny, blue flowers and a reputation as a nerve tonic.

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, aids sleep, promotes nervous system health.

Therapeutic Properties: Nervine, sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional North American medicine as a calming agent.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives; use caution with liver medications.

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora)

Description: An aromatic herb with grayish leaves and blue to purple flowers.

Benefits: Cognitive enhancement, digestive aid, antimicrobial.

Therapeutic Properties: Antioxidant, antiseptic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional medicine across cultures, including in Native American smudging ceremonies.

Contraindications: Avoid in high doses during pregnancy; may lower blood sugar levels.

Sage (Salvia spp.)

Sage (Salvia spp.)

Description: Fragrant flowers known for their beauty and therapeutic petals.

Benefits: Emotional uplift, skin health, digestive aid.

Therapeutic Properties: Antidepressant, astringent.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional medicine worldwide for a variety of purposes.

Contraindications: Generally safe; choose organic to avoid pesticide exposure.

Rose (Rosa spp.)

Rose (Rosa spp.)

Description: The bark of the red willow, related to the willow tree of aspirin fame.

Benefits: Pain relief, anti-inflammatory.

Therapeutic Properties: Analgesic, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used by Native Americans as a natural pain reliever and for various health issues.

Contraindications: Similar to aspirin; avoid with blood thinners and in children with viral infections.

Red Willow Bark (Salix laevigata)

Red Willow Bark (Salix laevigata)

Description: Leaves of the raspberry plant, known for their medicinal properties.

Benefits: Supports female reproductive health, aids digestion.

Therapeutic Properties: Uterine tonic, astringent.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Traditionally used in Native American and European medicine for pregnancy and childbirth.

Contraindications: Generally safe; some recommend avoiding in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus)

Description: A popular herb with a refreshing, cool taste and aroma.

Benefits: Digestive aid, relieves headaches, improves energy.

Therapeutic Properties: Carminative, analgesic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used since ancient times in Europe and the Middle East for digestive health.

Contraindications: May cause heartburn in some individuals; avoid with GERD.

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Peppermint (Mentha piperita)

Description: Known for its stunning flowers with a unique structure and sedative effects.

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, aids sleep.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, anxiolytic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used traditionally by Native Americans for its calming effects.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives; avoid during pregnancy.

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata)

Description: A perennial with heart-shaped leaves and tiny, stinging hairs.

Benefits: Nutrient-rich, supports joint health, aids in allergy relief.

Therapeutic Properties: Diuretic, antihistamine.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A versatile herb used worldwide for food and medicine.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and blood pressure medications.

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Nettle (Urtica dioica)

Description: Distinguished by its tall, dense spike of yellow flowers and large, soft leaves.

Benefits: Respiratory health, reduces inflammation.

Therapeutic Properties: Expectorant, demulcent.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional European and Native American medicine for lung health.

Contraindications: Seeds are toxic; use only leaves and flowers.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)

Description: A tall herb with dark green leaves and reddish-purple stems.

Benefits: Digestive aid, promotes menstrual flow, dream enhancement.

Therapeutic Properties: Emmenagogue, bitter tonic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in various cultures for its medicinal and spiritual properties.

Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy and lactation; may cause allergic reactions.

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)

Description: A herb in the mint family with pink to purple flowers and a distinctive square stem.

Benefits: Heart health, reduces anxiety.

Therapeutic Properties: Cardiotonic, nervine.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional European medicine for heart conditions and as a calming agent.

Contraindications: Avoid during pregnancy; may interact with sedatives and blood thinners.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Description: Known for its small blue flowers and inflating seed pods.

Benefits: Supports respiratory health, aids smoking cessation.

Therapeutic Properties: Expectorant, antispasmodic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used by Native Americans for respiratory and muscle disorders.

Contraindications: Potentially toxic; use only under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)

Description: Trees known for their heart-shaped leaves and fragrant, nectar-producing flowers.

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, aids sleep, supports respiratory health.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in European folk medicine, particularly as a calming tea.

Contraindications: Rarely, excessive use may cause heart damage; use in moderation.

Linden Flower (Tilia spp.)

Linden Flower (Tilia spp.)

Description: A flowering plant with a strong lemon scent, known for its pointed leaves.

Benefits: Digestive aid, reduces inflammation.

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Native to South America and used traditionally for digestive disorders and various other ailments.

Contraindications:  May cause skin irritation in sensitive individuals; use with caution.

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Lemon Verbena (Aloysia citrodora)

Description: A perennial herbaceous plant in the mint family with a lemon scent.

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, aids digestion, improves sleep.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, carminative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional European medicine as a calming herb.

Contraindications: May interact with thyroid medication.

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)

Description: A widely known plant with fragrant purple flowers.

Benefits: Reduces anxiety, improves sleep.

Therapeutic Properties: Anxiolytic, sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used since ancient times in the Mediterranean region for a variety of ailments.

Contraindications: Generally safe; may cause skin irritation in some when used topically.

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Lavender (Lavandula spp.)

Description: A crop of the Pacific Islands known for its sedative and anesthetic properties.

Benefits: Anxiety relief, promotes relaxation.

Therapeutic Properties: Anxiolytic, sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A ceremonial drink in the Pacific Islands for its psychoactive properties.

Contraindications: May cause liver damage with prolonged use; avoid with liver issues and alcohol.

Kava Kava (Piper methysticum)

Kava Kava (Piper methysticum)

Description: A shrub or vine with fragrant white or yellow flowers.

Benefits: Reduces stress, improves mood.

Therapeutic Properties: Antidepressant, aphrodisiac.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for its uplifting fragrance and health benefits.

Contraindications: Generally safe; excessive consumption may cause headache or insomnia.

Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)

Jasmine (Jasminum spp.)

Description: A herbaceous plant with clusters of purple flowers.

Benefits: Respiratory health, digestive aid.

Therapeutic Properties: Expectorant, carminative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Mentioned in the Bible and used historically throughout Europe.

Contraindications: Can cause seizures in high doses; avoid in epilepsy.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis)

Description: Best known for its use in brewing beer, it produces cone-like flowers.

Benefits: Sedative, eases anxiety.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, estrogenic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used traditionally in European herbalism for sleep disorders and as a preservative in beer.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives and estrogen therapies.

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Description: An aromatic perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae, known as Tulsi in Ayurvedic practice.

Benefits: Stress relief, immune support.

Therapeutic Properties: Adaptogen, antibacterial.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A sacred plant in Hindu belief and an important medicinal herb in Ayurveda.

Contraindications: May lower blood sugar; use cautiously with diabetes medications.

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Holy Basil (Ocimum sanctum)

Description: A small, herbaceous, perennial plant with fan-shaped green leaves.

Benefits: Improves memory, promotes wound healing.

Therapeutic Properties: Neuroprotective, circulatory stimulant.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for various conditions.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives and may cause skin sensitivity to sunlight.

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica)

Description: A genus of shrubs and trees with bright red berries and sharp thorns.

Benefits: Heart health, blood pressure regulation.

Therapeutic Properties: Cardiotonic, hypotensive.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A long history in European herbalism for heart health.

Contraindications: May interact with cardiac medications.

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

Description: A small plant with a single raspberry-like berry and a yellow root.

Benefits: Immune support, digestive aid.

Therapeutic Properties: Antimicrobial, bitter tonic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used by Native Americans for skin diseases and as a dye.

Contraindications: May interact with medications; overharvesting has led to its status as an endangered species.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)

Description: A flowering plant whose rhizome, ginger root, is widely used as a spice and medicine.

Benefits: Nausea relief, anti-inflammatory.

Therapeutic Properties: Antiemetic, analgesic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A key herb in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for thousands of years.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners; high doses can cause heartburn.

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Description: An ancient tree species with fan-shaped leaves.

Benefits: Enhances cognitive function, circulation.

Therapeutic Properties: Antioxidant, vasodilator.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A fundamental herb in traditional Chinese medicine.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and antidepressants.

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba)

Ginkgo Biloba (Ginkgo biloba)

Description: A species in the onion genus, known for its pungent, flavorful bulb.

Benefits: Cardiovascular health, antimicrobial.

Therapeutic Properties: Antihypertensive, antiviral.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in virtually every traditional medicine system for its potent medicinal properties.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and other medications.

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic (Allium sativum)

Description: An annual plant with small, rounded leaves and distinctive, strong-smelling seeds.

Benefits: Supports lactation, manages blood sugar.

Therapeutic Properties: Galactagogue, hypoglycemic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for various health concerns.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and diabetes medication.

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)

Description: A highly aromatic and flavorful herb with feathery leaves and yellow flowers.

Benefits: Digestive aid, relieves gas and bloating.

Therapeutic Properties: Carminative, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in ancient Greek and Roman cultures for digestive health.

Contraindications: May interact with estrogen therapies.

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare)

Description: Also known as Siberian ginseng, it's a small, woody shrub.

Benefits: Increases endurance, reduces stress.

Therapeutic Properties: Adaptogen, stimulant.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A staple in traditional Chinese medicine and Russian folk medicine.

Contraindications: May interact with medications for blood pressure and diabetes.

Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)

Description: The flower of the elderberry plant, with a light, sweet fragrance.

Benefits: Reduces cold and flu symptoms, supports respiratory health.

Therapeutic Properties: Diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A traditional remedy in European folk medicine

Contraindications: Similar to elderberry, raw flowers should not be consumed.

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)

Description: A shrub with clusters of small black or dark blue berries.

Benefits: Immune support, cold and flu relief.

Therapeutic Properties: Antiviral, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in traditional European medicine.

Contraindications: Raw berries are toxic; only consume cooked preparations.

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)

Description: Known for its pinkish-purple cone-shaped flowers.

Benefits: Immune support, cold and flu prevention.

Therapeutic Properties: Immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used by Native Americans for a variety of ailments.

Contraindications: May interact with immune-suppressing drugs; avoid in autoimmune diseases.

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)

Description: Commonly regarded as a weed, this plant has a long taproot and yellow flowers.

Benefits: Liver support, detoxification.

Therapeutic Properties: Diuretic, digestive tonic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional medicine across cultures for liver health and more.

Contraindications: May interact with diuretics and diabetes medication.

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

Dandelion Root (Taraxacum officinale)

Description: The inner bark of a small evergreen tree, known for its sweet and spicy aroma.

Benefits: Blood sugar regulation, antioxidant.

Therapeutic Properties: Antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: An ancient spice used in traditional medicines worldwide.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and diabetic medication.

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Cinnamon (Cinnamomum verum)

Description: A low-growing plant with small white flowers.

Benefits: Skin irritation relief, digestive aid.

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, expectorant.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Traditionally used in Europe and North America for skin conditions.

Contraindications: Generally safe; consume in moderation.

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Chickweed (Stellaria media)

Description: Small, daisy-like flowers with a pleasant, apple-like scent.

Benefits: Calms nerves, aids sleep, digestive health.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional medicine worldwide for thousands of years.

Contraindications: Allergy to ragweed or related plants.

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)

Description: A fungus that grows on birch trees, forming a black, charcoal-like exterior.

Benefits: Immune support, antioxidant.

Therapeutic Properties: Immunomodulator, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Long history of use in Siberian folk medicine.

Contraindications: May interact with blood-thinning medications.

Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)

Chaga Mushroom (Inonotus obliquus)

Description: An evergreen tree with a distinctive, pleasant aroma and durable wood.

Benefits: Antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, and can be used in aromatherapy for relaxation and grounding.

Therapeutic Properties: Antifungal, expectorant.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used by various Native American tribes for purification, in ceremonies, and as a traditional medicine for a range of ailments, particularly respiratory issues.

Contraindications: Cedar oil should not be ingested and may cause skin irritation in some people when applied topically. Pregnant women and individuals with kidney problems should avoid using cedar.

Cedar (Wild Cedar) (Juniperus virginiana or Thuja spp.)

Cedar (Wild Cedar) (Juniperus virginiana or Thuja spp.)

Description: A member of the mint family, known for its effects on cats.

Benefits: Relaxes nerves, aids digestion.

Therapeutic Properties: Sedative, digestive aid.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in European folk medicine as a sedative and digestive aid.

Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy and with liver issues.

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Catnip (Nepeta cataria)

Description: Bright orange or yellow flowers commonly used in topical applications.

Benefits: Wound healing, skin health.

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, antiseptic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in traditional medicine for skin and digestive issues.

Contraindications: Rarely, may cause allergic reactions.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

Description: A biennial plant with large leaves and purplish flowers.

Benefits: Detoxification, skin health.

Therapeutic Properties: Diuretic, blood purifier.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in traditional medicine in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Contraindications: May cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

Burdock Root (Arctium lappa)

Description: Known for its beautiful blue flowers and hairy leaves.

Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, mood enhancer.

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, diuretic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in Europe for centuries for mood and adrenal support.

Contraindications: Contains small amounts of pyrrolizidine alkaloids; not recommended for long-term use.

Borage (Borago officinalis)

Borage (Borago officinalis)

Description: An aquatic plant with beautiful blue flowers, historically revered in ancient Egypt.

Benefits: Mild sedative, mood enhancer, may help with anxiety and sleep.

Therapeutic Properties: Nervine, sedative.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in ancient Egyptian ceremonial practices for its psychoactive effects and as a symbol of the divine.

Contraindications: May interact with sedatives or medications for anxiety and depression. It's also a psychoactive substance, so it should be used with caution and respect.

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea Caerulea)

Blue Lotus (Nymphaea Caerulea)

Description: A perennial herb with a thick, woody root and small white flowers, native to North America.

Benefits: Respiratory support, immune booster.

Therapeutic Properties: Expectorant, antibacterial.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Revered by Native Americans, especially in the Rocky Mountain region, for its medicinal properties, especially for respiratory and throat conditions.

Contraindications: Not recommended during pregnancy or for those with kidney disease. It's also important to source ethically, as it cannot be cultivated and is wild-harvested

​​Bear Root (Osha Root) (Ligusticum porteri)

​​Bear Root (Osha Root) (Ligusticum porteri)

Description: A small shrub with yellow flowers, native to India and North Africa.

Benefits: Stress relief, improved brain function.

Therapeutic Properties: Adaptogen, anxiolytic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: An important herb in Ayurveda for vitality and rejuvenation.

Contraindications: Pregnant women should avoid; may interact with sedatives.

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera)

Description: A perennial plant with purple flowers and a long history in traditional Chinese medicine.

Benefits: Boosts immune system, cardiovascular protection.

Therapeutic Properties: Immunomodulator, antiviral.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: A staple in Chinese medicine for immunity and energy.

Contraindications: May interact with immune-suppressing drugs.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)

Description: A bright yellow, daisy-like flower.

Benefits: Reduces pain and inflammation, particularly for bruises and sprains.

Therapeutic Properties: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Widely used in European folk medicine.

Contraindications: Toxic when ingested, use only in diluted form on unbroken skin.

Arnica (Arnica montana)

Arnica (Arnica montana)

Description: Tall herb with greenish-white flowers and a distinctive aromatic root.

Benefits: Digestive aid, helps with respiratory conditions.

Therapeutic Properties: Expectorant, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used in Europe since ancient times for healing and protection.

Contraindications: Can increase photosensitivity; avoid excessive sun exposure.

Angelica Root (Angelica archangelica)

Angelica Root (Angelica archangelica)

Description: Alfalfa is a perennial flowering plant with deep roots and small purple flowers.

Benefits: Nutrient-rich, supports kidney health, aids digestion.

Therapeutic Properties: Diuretic, anti-inflammatory.

Indigenous Roots & Historical Uses: Used traditionally in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat a variety of ailments.

Contraindications: May interact with blood thinners and should be avoided during pregnancy.

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa)

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This (or these) product(s) is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, and prevent any disease.

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