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Wild Cherry
bark
(Prunus spp.) cool and dry
* |
Has a long
history of use as an antispasmodic to the respiratory tract. It is
used for broncho-spasm and coughing associated with bronchitis,
chest colds, pneumonia and pertussis. It is a common ingredient in
cough syrups, usually mixed with Licorice. Wild Cherry bark can also
be used for other spasms including the diaphragm (hiccoughs), vocal
cords, hiatal hernia, etc.
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Mullein
leaf
(Verbascum
thapsus)
neutral * |
A mild
antitussive, expectorant, and respiratory antispasmodic, it is
commonly used to help reduce coughing, enhance elimination of mucus,
and to allay respiratory nerve irritation.
|
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Licorice
root
(Glycyrrhiza glabra or G. uralensis) warm and moist * |
Has a long
history of use in China and the Middle East. This intensely sweet
root is an adaptogen, demulcent, expectorant, pectoral, antiviral
and antidepressant. Licorice strengthens endocrine function. The
demulcent action heals mucus membrane tissue especially the stomach
(ulcers), large and small intestine (irritable bowel syndrome) and
lung (dry, irritated cough). Excessive use of Licorice can elevate
blood pressure. |
|
Wild
Lettuce herb
(Lactuca spp.) cold and dry * |
A
mild sedative, antispasmodic and anodyne, it is useful for spasmodic
coughs and smoker’s cough. |
|
Lobelia
herb and seed
(Lobelia inflata) cold and dry |
Has been used
for thousands of years by Native Americans and later by Thomsonian
and Eclectic physicians as a strong antispasmodic to the lungs,
heart and musculo-skeletal system. It can be used effectively in
combination with other milder herbs for spasmodic coughing
(bronchitis, asthma, pertussis) and for broncho-constriction (COPD).
|
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Khella seed
(Amni visnaga) cool and dry * |
An ancient
Egyptian medicinal plant that is rich in a chemical called Khellin,
it acts as a powerful antispasmodic to the small bronchi. Its
effects are long lasting and are useful in preventing asthma
attacks, especially at night. |
|
Bibliography: |
ESCOP,
E/S/C/O/P Monographs-The Scientific Foundation For Herbal Medicine
Products, Thieme, 2003
Felter, H. W. The Eclectic Materia Medica, Pharmacology and
Therapeutics, J. K.
Scudder, 1922
Mitchell, Wm., Plant Medicine in Practice, Livingstone
Churchill, 2003
Moore, M.
The Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West, Museum of New
Mexico Press, 2nd ed., 2004
Skenderi, G., Herbal Vade Mecum, Herbacy Press, 2004
Winston, D., Herbal Therapeutics, Specific Indications For Herbs
& Herbal Formulas, HTRL, 8th ed., 2003 |
|
*Herbal
Therapeutics Research Library
Author: David Winston (RH) AHG
©2007
Herbal Therapeutics Research Library. All rights reserved |
Disclaimer: The information on
historical, ethnobotanical and phytotherapeutic uses of herbs and
traditional formulas contained herein is based on the experience and
research of the author. It is not intended as a substitute for
consulting with your physician or other health care provider. Any
attempt to diagnose and treat an illness should be done under the
direction of a health care professional. The publisher and author
are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences
resulting from the use of any of the information discussed. Should
you have any questions concerning the appropriateness of any
preparation mentioned, the author strongly suggests consulting a
professional health care advisor. |
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