E - H

Emetics are substances that induce vomiting, typically by either irritating the stomach lining or stimulating the vomiting centre in the brain. Traditionally, emetics were used to help the body expel harmful substances, such as toxins, spoiled food, or poisons, before they could be absorbed.

Herbal emetics were once more common in historical or folk medicine, especially in cleansing protocols, acute poisonings, or to clear excess phlegm or bile. However, their use is now much less frequent in modern herbal practice due to the potential for harm, including dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, and damage to the oesophagus or stomach lining.

Where emesis is still considered, it is typically performed under the supervision of trained professionals in controlled clinical settings.

Examples of emetic herbs (used with extreme caution) include:

• Ipecacuanha (Psychotria ipecacuanha) – a potent emetic used historically in syrup form for poisoning

• Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) – emetic in high doses; traditionally used in respiratory and muscular conditions, but requires great care

• Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis) – strong emetic and purgative; now rarely used due to toxicity

Note: The use of emetics is not recommended for self-care and should only be considered under professional guidance, especially since vomiting may worsen some poisonings or delay proper treatment.

Emmenagogues are herbs that help to stimulate or regulate menstrual flow, often by increasing circulation to the pelvic region, supporting hormonal balance, or gently encouraging uterine contractions. These herbs have long been used in traditional medicine to address delayed, scanty, or irregular periods, and to support healthy menstrual rhythm.

Emmenagogues vary in strength, some are mild tonics that encourage healthy flow over time, while others are more stimulating and should be used with greater caution. They may also support related issues like cramping, tension, or congestion in the womb area.

Examples of emmenagogue herbs include:

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – gently warming; supports pelvic circulation and menstrual ease

• Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) – traditionally used for cold, damp constitutions affecting the menstrual cycle

• Feverfew(Tanacetum parthenium) – bitter and stimulating; used for period irregularity and hormonal headaches

• Hyssop (Dracocephalum officinale) – aromatic and warming; supports uterine tone and circulation

• Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) – calming and uterine-toning; helpful for delayed periods and emotional tension

• Mugwort(Artemisia vulgaris) – traditional moon herb; promotes menstrual flow and supports hormonal regulation

• Sage (Salvia officinalis) – stimulating and drying; used for suppressed periods and menopausal transitions

• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – calming and antispasmodic; supports nervous tension and menstrual cramping

• Wood Betony(Betonica officinalis) – gently supportive of pelvic circulation and hormonal balance

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – circulatory and astringent; helps regulate bleeding and promote flow

Caution: Emmenagogue herbs should be avoided during pregnancy unless specifically prescribed, as they may induce uterine contractions. Always consult a qualified practitioner before using them for menstrual issues or hormonal conditions.

Emollients are herbs or oils that soften, soothe, and moisturise the skin, making them essential in skincare, wound care, and topical herbal preparations. They work by forming a protective barrier over the skin, helping to prevent moisture loss, relieve dryness, and ease irritation or inflammation.

Emollients are especially beneficial for dry, cracked, sensitive, or inflamed skin, and are often used in creams, balms, salves, and compresses to restore comfort and elasticity. Many emollient herbs are also anti-inflammatory and promote skin healing.

Examples of herbal and natural emollients include:

• Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) – cooling and hydrating; ideal for burns, sun exposure, and inflamed skin

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, Chamaemelum nobile) – soothing and anti-inflammatory; calms irritation and redness

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – promotes skin healing while softening and hydrating damaged or dry tissue

• Marshmallow Root (Althaea officinalis) – rich in mucilage; deeply soothing for dryness, eczema, and irritation

• Coconut Oil (Cocos nucifera) – emollient oil that penetrates deeply to hydrate and soften the skin

• Olive Oil (Olea europaea) – classic emollient oil; supports skin repair and improves suppleness

These ingredients are often combined with demulcents, vulneraries, and anti-inflammatories in topical blends to address conditions like eczema, dermatitis, sunburn, or general dryness.

Energetics in herbal medicine refers to the qualities or “temperatures” of herbs and people, and how they interact to restore balance in the body. This traditional framework, rooted in systems like Western humoral theory, Ayurveda, and Traditional Chinese Medicine, classifies herbs and constitutions based on patterns such as:

• Hot vs. Cold

• Dry vs. Moist

• Tense vs. Relaxed

• Stagnant vs. Deficient

Understanding energetics helps herbalists choose remedies that match the individual’s constitution and presenting symptoms, rather than treating a condition with a one-size-fits-all approach.

For example:

• A person with cold, damp digestion may benefit from warming, drying herbs like ginger (Zingiber officinale) or thyme (Thymus vulgaris).

• A hot, inflamed skin condition might respond better to cooling, soothing herbs like chickweed (Stellaria media) or plantain (Plantago spp.).

• Someone with nervous tension may find relief in relaxing, moistening herbs such as oat straw (Avena sativa) or lemon balm (Melissa officinalis).

Energetics also guide herbal formulation, helping to balance out overly stimulating or drying herbs with supportive, harmonising plants.

This approach encourages herbalists to treat the whole person, considering climate, constitution, emotional state, and underlying patterns, rather than focusing solely on symptoms.

Expectorants are herbs that help to loosen, thin, and expel mucus or phlegm from the respiratory tract. They are particularly valuable in managing coughs, chest congestion, bronchitis, and other conditions where mucus build-up impairs breathing and irritates the lungs.

Expectorants work by enhancing the body’s ability to clear respiratory secretions, making coughs more productive and aiding recovery from infection or irritation.

How Expectorants Work:

• Mucolytic action: Breaks down the structure of thick mucus, making it easier to move

• Stimulation of secretions: Encourages the production of thinner, less adhesive mucus, which helps flush out irritants

• Cough reflex support: Mobilises mucus so that it can be cleared more effectively through coughing

• Hydration of mucous membranes: Keeps tissues moist, reducing irritation and aiding natural clearance mechanisms

Herbal expectorants include:

• Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) – moistens and soothes dry lungs while helping clear stubborn mucus

• Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia, E. purpurea, E. pallida) – immune-modulating and mildly expectorant; supports upper respiratory defence

• Elderflower (Sambucus nigra) – helps relieve congestion and gently stimulates expectoration during colds and flu

• Elecampane (Inula helenium) – warming and deep-acting; breaks down thick mucus in the lungs and bronchi

• Fennel(Foeniculum vulgare) – aromatic and soothing; helps clear mucus and relieve respiratory tension

• Garlic (Allium sativum) – pungent and antimicrobial; helps loosen mucus while supporting immune response

• Ground Ivy (Glechoma hederacea) – used for lingering coughs and congested lungs

• Hyssop(Dracocephalum officinale) – warming and clearing; supports mucus clearance in damp, cold conditions

• Linden (Tilia spp.) – relaxing and soothing; supports expectoration in fevers and dry, irritated lungs

• Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) – moistens, soothes, and clears mucus; excellent in both dry and damp coughs

• Plantain (Plantago spp.) – demulcent and anti-inflammatory; helps heal inflamed respiratory membranes while encouraging gentle expectoration

• Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) – strongly antimicrobial and expectorant; useful in infection-related coughs and congestion

Expectorants are best taken as teas, tinctures, syrups, or steam inhalations, depending on the individual’s constitution and the nature of the cough or congestion.

 A febrifuge, also known as an antipyretic, is a substance that reduces or alleviates fever. Febrifuges support the body's natural ability to regulate its temperature by promoting sweating or acting on the hypothalamus (the brain's temperature-regulating centre). These remedies are commonly used in colds, flu, or infections accompanied by fever.

How Febrifuges Work:

1. Promoting Perspiration (Diaphoresis): Many febrifuge herbs encourage sweating, which cools the body and helps lower fever. This process, called diaphoresis, aids in releasing heat and toxins.

2. Cooling and Soothing Effects: Some febrifuge herbs have cooling properties that help regulate an overheated body.

3. Immune System Support: Febrifuges often work in harmony with the immune system, supporting the body in combating the underlying cause of the fever.

Common Herbal Febrifuges:

• Elderflower (Sambucus nigra): Encourages sweating and soothes fevers related to colds or flu.

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium): A classic febrifuge that promotes perspiration and eases fever symptoms.

• Peppermint (Mentha × piperita): Offers cooling effects and supports the body in regulating temperature.

• Willow Bark (Salix alba): Contains salicin, a compound that reduces fever and inflammation (similar to aspirin).

• Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria): Another source of salicin, known for its febrifuge and anti-inflammatory properties.

• Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Gentle yet effective for fever reduction, especially in children.

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile): Provides a calming, soothing effect while helping reduce fever.

A galactagogue is a substance that promotes or increases breast milk production in lactating mothers. These agents are often used to support new mothers experiencing difficulty with milk supply, and they work through various mechanisms, including hormonal regulation, relaxation, and nourishment of the body.

How Galactagogues Work:

1. Hormonal Stimulation: Many galactagogue herbs are thought to enhance the release of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. Some may also reduce stress hormones, which can interfere with lactation.

2. Nutritional Support: Certain galactagogues are rich in vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients that nourish the body and support milk production.

3. Relaxation and Stress Relief: Since stress can inhibit milk flow, herbs with calming properties can indirectly promote lactation by aiding relaxation.

A galactagogue is any substance that helps stimulate or increase the production of breast milk in breastfeeding individuals. They can be herbs, foods, or medications, and their effectiveness depends on the individual's physiology and circumstances. Here's a more detailed breakdown:

Mechanism of Action

Galactagogues work by supporting the hormonal balance essential for milk production. The key hormones involved are:

• Prolactin: Promotes milk synthesis in the mammary glands.

• Oxytocin: Facilitates the "let-down reflex," which releases milk.

Herbal Galactagogues

Commonly used in traditional medicine, herbs are popular galactagogues:

• Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum): Rich in phytoestrogens, which mimic oestrogen and may boost prolactin levels.

• Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare): Contains compounds believed to stimulate milk production and relax the digestive system.

• Blessed Thistle (Cnicus Benedictus): Traditionally used alongside fenugreek for its lactation-supporting properties.

• Alfalfa (Medicago sativa): Packed with vitamins and minerals to support overall health during lactation.

Food-Based Galactagogues
Certain foods are known to have lactogenic properties:

• Oats: High in iron and may aid in milk production.

• Barley: Contains beta-glucan, linked to increased prolactin.

• Brewer’s Yeast: A nutrient-dense food rich in B vitamins and iron.

Lifestyle and Practices

• Frequent breastfeeding or pumping increases demand, encouraging milk production.

• Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby promotes oxytocin release, aiding the let-down reflex.

• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet support overall lactation.

Gastroprotective herbs help to protect and soothe the lining of the stomach and digestive tract, reducing the risk of ulceration, inflammation, and irritation. These herbs work by forming a protective barrier, reducing acid damage, increasing mucus production, or supporting tissue healing within the gastrointestinal system.

Gastroprotective herbs are often used for gastritis, acid reflux, ulcers, indigestion, or inflammatory bowel conditions. They are especially valuable for people with sensitive digestion, those recovering from NSAID use, or dealing with stress-related gut issues.

These herbs often overlap with demulcents, anti-inflammatories, and astringents, depending on the underlying cause of irritation.

Examples of gastroprotective herbs include:

• Marshmallow root(Althaea officinalis) – rich in mucilage; coats and soothes the stomach lining

• Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) – highly mucilaginous; forms a gel-like layer that protects and heals gut tissues

• Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) – anti-inflammatory and soothing; supports mucosal repair (deglycyrrhizinated licorice is often used to avoid raising blood pressure)

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla, Chamaemelum nobile) – calming and mildly protective; helpful in stress-related gut upset

• Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) – cooling and astringent; helps buffer stomach acid and reduce inflammation

• Plantain (Plantago spp.) – demulcent and wound-healing; supports tissue repair and protects delicate mucous membranes

Gastroprotectives are typically taken as cold infusions, teas, or powders, often between meals to coat and calm the digestive lining. They're frequently used alongside bitters, digestive tonics, or alteratives in gut-healing protocols.

Glycosides are a broad group of plant-based chemical compounds composed of a sugar molecule bonded to a non-sugar component (called an aglycone). When broken down in the body, usually by enzymes or through digestion, the aglycone is released and becomes biologically active, often producing therapeutic effects.

Many herbal actions are attributed to the presence of specific glycosides, which may have anti-inflammatory, cardiac, laxative, or immune-stimulating properties, depending on their structure. Glycosides are common in leaves, roots, and barks and play a role in the flavour, activity, and sometimes toxicity of a plant.

There are several important types of glycosides in herbal medicine, including:

• Cardiac glycosides – Affect the heart; found in plants like Digitalis purpurea (not used in modern herbalism due to toxicity)

• Anthraquinone glycosides – Have laxative effects; found in plants like Yellow Dock(Rumex crispus)

• Flavonoid glycosides – Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory; common in Elder(Sambucus nigra) and Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.)

• Saponin glycosides – Soapy compounds that modulate the immune system and support expectoration; found in Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Horse Chestnut(Aesculus hippocastanum), and Wild Yam

• Iridoid glycosides – Bitter and anti-inflammatory; found in herbs like Plantain (Plantago spp.) and Valerian(Valeriana officinalis)

Understanding glycosides is important in herbal medicine because they often determine a plant’s medicinal action, potency, and preparation method (some are deactivated by heat or digestion).

Grounding herbs are plants that help bring the body and mind into a state of calm, balance, and presence. They are often used to support people who feel ungrounded, anxious, spacey, or emotionally scattered, helping to restore a sense of safety, embodiment, and nervous system stability.

These herbs work by supporting the rooting functions of the body, such as digestion, sleep, and emotional regulation, and are commonly used in stress, trauma recovery, overstimulation, and vata-type imbalances (in Ayurvedic terms). Many have actions as nervines, adaptogens, or tonics, and are often warming, earthy, or bitter in nature.

Grounding herbs can be used energetically, emotionally, or physically, depending on the individual’s constitution and needs.

Examples of grounding herbs include:

• Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) – adaptogenic root; strengthens and calms the nervous system while anchoring scattered energy

• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – sedative and earthy; brings heaviness and calm to the body and mind

• Oat-straw (Avena sativa) – deeply nourishing nervine; stabilises and rebuilds frazzled nervous systems

• Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) – grounding through the heart; calms nervous tension and emotional overwhelm

• Rose (Rosa × damascena) – gently grounding and heart-centred; eases emotional vulnerability and reconnects to the body

• Wood Betony (Betonica officinalis) – used traditionally to “bring the soul back into the body”; excellent for tension held in the head and upper body

• Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) – grounding and protective; helps bring clarity and focus during transitions or emotional turbulence

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – calming, gentle, and accessible; helps soothe mental agitation and encourages sleep

Grounding herbs are commonly taken as teas, tinctures, baths, or ritual preparations, and may be combined with practices like deep breathing, nature walks, or bodywork to enhance their effects.

Haemostatic agents help to stop or slow bleeding, both internally and externally, by supporting the body’s natural blood-clotting process. These herbs are particularly useful in treating minor wounds, cuts, nosebleeds, heavy menstrual flow, or bleeding gums.

In the human body, haemostasis is the natural process that prevents excessive blood loss and involves:

1. Vascular spasm – constriction of blood vessels to reduce flow

2. Platelet plug formation – platelets adhere to damaged tissue to seal the break

3. Coagulation – fibrin threads form a stable clot to stop bleeding

Herbal haemostatics may work by promoting tissue contraction, encouraging coagulation, or supporting tissue repair and are often applied topically as powders or compresses, or internally in specific cases.

Haemostatic herbs include:

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – a classic first-aid herb; promotes clotting when applied topically and reduces minor internal bleeding

• Calendula (Calendula officinalis) – gentle yet effective; stops bleeding, soothes inflammation, and prevents infection in minor wounds

• Shepherd’s Purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris) – traditionally used for uterine or menstrual bleeding; astringent and vasoconstrictive

• Plantain (Plantago spp.) – astringent and soothing; can slow bleeding while supporting tissue healing

• Self-Heal(Prunella vulgaris) – promotes clotting and regeneration; traditionally used for cuts, grazes, and oral wounds

Haemostatic herbs are often used in powdered form, wound washes, poultices, or topical salves, and in some cases internally with professional supervision, especially where bleeding is persistent or hormonal in nature.

Hepatic herbs are those that support the health, function, and detoxification capacity of the liver. These herbs play a vital role in herbal medicine, as the liver is responsible for processing toxins, digesting fats, metabolising hormones, and regulating blood composition.

Hepatics may stimulate bile production, promote cell regeneration, reduce inflammation, or act as protective antioxidants within liver tissue. They are often included in herbal protocols for skin conditions, hormonal imbalances, digestive sluggishness, detoxification, or chronic inflammation.

Hepatic herbs often overlap with actions such as choleretic, cholagogue, alterative, and antioxidant.

Examples of hepatic herbs include:

• Dandelion root(Taraxacum agg.) – a classic liver tonic; stimulates bile flow and supports digestion and detox

• Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) – contains silymarin, a powerful antioxidant that protects and regenerates liver cells

• Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) – supports elimination and detoxification via liver and bowel; mildly laxative

• Burdock (Arctium lappa) – cleansing and supportive; promotes liver, kidney, and skin health

• Artichoke leaf (Cynara scolymus) – bitter hepatic and choleretic; aids fat digestion and cholesterol metabolism

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective; helps modulate liver inflammation and oxidative stress

• Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) – adaptogenic and liver-protective; enhances phase I and II liver detox pathways

Hepatics are often taken as tinctures, teas, or powders, and are commonly used in long-term support protocols for improving vitality, skin health, hormonal balance, or recovery from medication or toxin exposure.

Hyperlipidaemia refers to elevated levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, primarily cholesterol and triglycerides. It is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks, strokes, and atherosclerosis (fatty deposits in the arteries). Hyperlipidaemia may be:

• Primary (genetic) – due to inherited disorders of lipid metabolism

• Secondary – resulting from lifestyle, diet, or health conditions such as diabetes, obesity, or hypothyroidism

The condition often presents without symptoms but is diagnosed through a lipid profile blood test that measures total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and triglycerides.

Herbal Support for Hyperlipidaemia

Herbal medicine offers complementary support through herbs that:

• Lower cholesterol absorption (e.g., via plant sterols and soluble fibre)

• Stimulate bile flow, aiding fat breakdown and elimination

• Reduce inflammation and oxidative stress linked to lipid imbalance

• Improve circulation and support metabolism of fats

Herbs that may support lipid regulation include:

• Passion Flower(Passiflora incarnata) – calming and anti-inflammatory; indirectly supports heart health by reducing stress

• Garlic(Allium sativum) – rich in allicin; reduces LDL cholesterol and improves arterial health

• Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor) – immune-modulating and antioxidant-rich; supports systemic inflammation and gut balance

• Oat (Avena sativa) – contains beta-glucans; binds cholesterol in the gut and prevents reabsorption

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – anti-inflammatory and antioxidant; helps reduce lipid oxidation and supports liver metabolism

Herbal treatment is best combined with dietary changes, exercise, and smoking cessation, and should be considered as part of a holistic approach alongside conventional care if required.

Hypnotic herbs are those that induce sleep or promote deep relaxation by calming the central nervous system. These herbs are particularly useful for insomnia, restlessness, anxiety-related sleep disturbances, and issues with sleep quality or duration.

Hypnotic herbs often work by interacting with neurotransmitters that regulate the sleep–wake cycle, such as GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), serotonin, or dopamine. While some hypnotics are mild and suitable for long-term use, others are stronger and best used for short periods or under guidance.

Mechanisms of Action:

• GABAergic activity – Enhances the calming neurotransmitter GABA to slow brain activity and promote drowsiness

• Serotonergic modulation – Supports serotonin balance, which can help regulate circadian rhythm and mood

• Reduction of stress hormones – Lowers cortisol, reducing mental and physical tension that may interfere with sleep

Examples of hypnotic herbs include:

• Californian Poppy(Eschscholzia californica) – gently sedative; reduces overactive thoughts and tension, ideal for anxious sleepers

• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – deeply relaxing; commonly used to ease sleep onset and improve overall sleep quality

• Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) – calming and slightly hypnotic; helpful for circular thoughts and sleeplessness due to worry

• Hops (Humulus lupulus) – strong sedative and hypnotic; used for difficulty falling or staying asleep

• Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) – mild and soothing; suitable for children, sensitive individuals, or light nervous tension

Hypnotic herbs are typically used as tinctures, infusions, capsules, or sleep blends, often taken 30–60 minutes before bedtime. Many pair well with nervines, adaptogens, or hormone-balancing herbs to address underlying causes of sleep disruption.

Hypoglycaemic herbs help to lower blood sugar levels or improve the body’s ability to regulate glucose, making them valuable in managing type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and blood sugar fluctuations.

These herbs may act by enhancing insulin sensitivity, slowing carbohydrate absorption, stimulating insulin secretion, or protecting pancreatic and liver function. Many are also rich in antioxidants and support weight balance, inflammation reduction, and cardiovascular health, all important in long-term blood sugar control.

Mechanisms of Action:

• Insulin sensitising: Improves the body’s response to insulin, allowing glucose to enter cells more efficiently

• Delayed glucose absorption: Slows digestion of carbohydrates to prevent blood sugar spikes

• Pancreatic support: Encourages insulin production or reduces beta-cell stress

• Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects: Helps reduce insulin resistance and tissue damage over time

Examples of hypoglycaemic herbs include:

• Garlic (Allium sativum) – supports glucose regulation, cardiovascular protection, and lipid balance

• Nettle (Urtica dioica) – shown to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce post-meal blood sugar levels

• Oat(Avena sativa) – high in beta-glucans; slows glucose absorption and supports cholesterol balance

• Turmeric (Curcuma longa) – anti-inflammatory and hepatoprotective; supports insulin signalling and metabolic health

• Milk Thistle (Silybum marianum) – supports liver detoxification and glucose metabolism

• Bitter herbs (e.g. DandelionTaraxacum agg., Yellow DockRumex crispus) – stimulate digestive secretions and help modulate postprandial glucose levels

Hypoglycaemic herbs are best used in tinctures, capsules, or teas and are most effective when combined with dietary changes, regular exercise, and blood sugar monitoring. Caution is advised when used alongside medication, as they may enhance drug effects.

Hypotensive herbs help to lower high blood pressure by supporting the cardiovascular system and promoting healthy circulation. These herbs may work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance, or supporting the nervous system to relieve stress, all of which play a role in managing hypertension.

They may be used alongside conventional medication or as part of a broader holistic protocol involving diet, exercise, and stress management. Because individual responses and underlying causes vary, hypotensive herbs should be selected with care, especially for those already on blood pressure medication.

How Hypotensive Herbs Work:

• Vasodilation: Widening of blood vessels to improve blood flow and reduce pressure

• ACE inhibition: Modulating the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme, a key regulator of blood pressure

• Stress reduction: Calming the nervous system and lowering stress hormones that can raise blood pressure

• Antioxidant action: Reducing oxidative stress that contributes to vascular damage and pressure dysregulation

Examples of hypotensive herbs include:

• Cramp Bark(Viburnum opulus) – relaxes smooth muscle and lowers tension in the vascular system

• Garlic (Allium sativum) – supports vasodilation via nitric oxide production; improves lipid profile and circulation

• Hawthorn (Crataegus spp.) – strengthens the heart and improves coronary circulation; ideal for long-term cardiovascular support

• Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis) – calming and hypotensive; reduces nervous tension linked to blood pressure spikes

• Linden (Tilia spp.) – gentle hypotensive; also a relaxing diaphoretic and nervous system tonic

• Motherwort(Leonurus cardiaca) – both a cardiac and emotional tonic; particularly helpful in stress-linked hypertension

• Nettle (Urtica dioica) – nutritive and mildly diuretic; supports kidney and vascular health

• Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) – sedative and vasorelaxant; eases high blood pressure tied to anxiety or agitation

• Vervain (Verbena officinalis) – calming and circulatory; helps in tension-related hypertension

• Wood Betony (Betonica officinalis) – relaxing and mildly hypotensive; supports cerebral circulation

• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) – balancing herb with mild vasodilatory and circulatory actions

Hypotensive herbs are often used as teas, tinctures, or long-term tonics, and may be blended with nervines, cardiotonic, or diuretic herbs for a full-spectrum approach.