Useful For: Water balance, muscles, nervous system, heart
Herbal Sources: Catnip, Hops, Horsetail, Nettle, Plantain, Red Clover, Sage, Scullcap
Food Sources: Potatos, Benanas, papayas, edamame, tomato sauce, spinach, oranges, celery, cabbage, seaweed
Other notes: Potassium is not something to try to get from supplements. When not gained through food, potassium has a tendency to build up in the body, which can lead to very serious medical conditions.
Name: Lobelia
Latin: Lobelia inflata
Other Common Names:
Family:
Parts Used:
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Used for: The tincture of this herb is a wonderful anti-spasmodic. Generally works within 5-15 minutes when a few drops are put under the tongue. Lobelia is also a powerful relaxant. If used regularly during waking hours, you may wish to mix it with a more stimulating herb such as cayenne, peppermint, ginseng, or ginger. Lobelia is also a nerve sedative. It both nourishes and strengthens the nervous system, and through this action can help with pain.
Use in tandem with:
Directions & Warnings: Smokers may require more Lobelia to get results, as there is a potential cross-tolerance between Lobelia and nicotine. Due to the potent relaxation this herb can provoke, it is also not recommended for regular use by diabetics.
Name: Arnica
Latin:
Other Common Names: Accident Plant
Family:
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Used for: A lotion containing arnica can be a fairly effective pain reliever, particularly in cases of soft tissue damage. Used to reduce swelling from breaks and sprains, and effective at relieving muscle strain and tension.
Use in tandem with:
Directions & Warnings: DO NOT use arnica if there is a break in the skin. There are some internal uses, but they should not be attempted unless under the direct care of a herbal practitioner.
Name: Crampbark
Latin:
Other Common Names:
Parts Used: Bark
Vitamins & Minerals:
Used for: This is one of the rarer herbs that can be used for the female reproductive system. It relaxes the ovaries and uterus, meaning that it can both help to stop a miscarriage, and ease a rough period. It is also a stimulant to the kidneys, increasing their ability to clean the body. The relaxant and anti-spasmodic effects are not merely useful for the uterus, so this herb can be used in preparations for other muscular issues as well. This herb can also be used in pain preparations, as it has rejuvenating effect on the nervous system, strengthening and easing it over time.