Herbal Glossary

Medical and Herbal Terms Defined

Absolute

Extraction of essence from plants or flowers using solvents. Usually used with plants that have very low yields or change under the heat of steam distillation.

Analgesic

Reduces or eliminates pain.

Anaphrodisiac

Lessens or mellows erotic feelings.

Antibacterial

Assists the body in resisting or destroying infectious bacteria.

Antidepressant

Helps uplift mood.

Antifungal

Assists the body in resisting or destroying fungal organisms, such as yeast.

Anti-neuralgic

Helps soothe nerve pain (neuralgia).

Anti-inflammatory

Reduces heat, redness, and swelling associated with inflammation.

Anti-rheumatic

A general term for an agent that helps ease arthritic symptoms, such as musculoskeletal pain and inflammation.

Antiseptic

Inhibits the growth of microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. All essential oils show some degree of antiseptic action.

Antispasmodic

Eases muscular spasms or cramps.

Antiviral

Assists the body in resisting invasion of viruses or relieving accompanying symptoms.

Aphrodisiac

Enhances or stimulates erotic feelings.

Astringent

Contracts, firms, and strengthens skin and other tissue; reduces secretions.

Carminative

Promotes digestion and peristalsis; assists in expulsion of intestinal gas.

Couperose

Red, ‘spider-veined’ skin due to weakened or broken capillaries.

Emollient

Softens, soothes and protects especially dry or chapped skin.

Euphoric

Promotes a sense of well-being.

Expectorant

Promotes elimination of excess respiratory mucous.

Fixative

A viscous (thick) oil with a very low evaporation rate; used in perfumery to stabilize and increase the ‘staying power’ of a blend.

Mucolytic

Helps fluidify (dissolve) mucous.

Neat

To apply undiluted, directly on skin.

Nervine

Having an effect on the nervous system (for example, a sedative or stimulant).

Photosensitizing, phototoxic

May cause a skin reaction such as burning, irritation, or pigment change upon exposure to ultra-violet light (sunlight, tanning lights).

Regulating

Helps balance and normalize body functions.

Sedative

Relaxing, calming, soothing effects.

Sensitizing

Capable of producing an irritation or allergic reaction.

Stimulant

Invigorating, stimulating, energizing effects.

Tonic

Increases tone and vitality of skin, other organs or body systems.

Vulnerary

Affects wound healing, skin regenerative.