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Herb Glossary
Below is a list of herbs, in alphabetical order, that have historically and are commonly used in specialty herbal formulations. My Apothecary Box uses only the highest quality, organically grown herbs that you will find in this list. As our apothecary expands, so will this Herb Glossary.
Anise (Star)
Botanical Name: Pimpinella anisum Family: Apiaceae Description: Anise is an annual herb that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has feathery leaves and white flowers that form in umbels. The seeds, known as aniseeds, are small, brown, and have a sweet, licorice-like flavor. Historical Use: Anise has been used since ancient times for its aromatic and medicinal properties. The Egyptians used it as a diuretic, the Greeks and Romans as a spice and for digestive issues, and it was popular in medieval Europe for treating coughs and colds. Medicinal Uses: Anise is traditionally used to support digestive health, alleviate gas and bloating, and soothe coughs. It is also used to promote lactation in nursing mothers and as a mild expectorant. Energetic Qualities: Anise is considered warming and drying. It is thought to invigorate and stimulate digestion and respiratory function. Precautions: Anise should be used in moderation. Excessive consumption may lead to gastrointestinal issues. Individuals allergic to plants in the Apiaceae family should avoid anise. Distribution: Native to the eastern Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia. It is now cultivated worldwide in warm, frost-free climates. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 4 to 9. Harvesting: Anise seeds are harvested in late summer to early fall when they are fully mature and have turned brown. They are then dried and stored for use. Parts Used: Seeds.
Bay Leaf
Botanical Name: Laurus nobilis Family: Lauraceae Description: Bay leaf is an evergreen shrub or small tree that can grow up to 40 feet tall. It has dark green, glossy leaves that are aromatic and used in cooking. Historical Use: Bay leaves have been used since ancient Greek and Roman times for culinary and medicinal purposes. They were also used to make laurel wreaths, symbolizing victory and honor. Medicinal Uses: Bay leaves are traditionally used to support digestive health, relieve pain, and reduce inflammation. They are also used in aromatherapy to promote relaxation. Energetic Qualities: Bay leaf is considered warming and stimulating. It is believed to enhance circulation and digestion. Precautions: Bay leaf should not be consumed in large amounts. Whole leaves should be removed from dishes before serving to prevent choking. Distribution: Native to the Mediterranean region. Cultivated in various parts of the world with similar climates. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 8 to 10. Harvesting: Leaves can be harvested year-round, but the best flavor is in the summer. Leaves are dried for use. Parts Used: Leaves.
Black Cohosh
Botanical Name: Actaea racemosa (formerly Cimicifuga racemosa) Family: Ranunculaceae Description: Black Cohosh is a perennial herb that grows up to 6-8 feet tall. It has large, compound leaves with toothed edges and produces tall, wand-like racemes of small, white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. The rootstock is thick and knobby, dark brown to black in color. Historical Use: Black Cohosh has a long history of use by Native American tribes, particularly for women's health issues, such as menstrual cramps, menopause symptoms, and childbirth. It was also used for rheumatism, fever, and kidney problems. European settlers adopted its use, and it became a popular remedy in Western herbal medicine. Medicinal Uses: Black Cohosh is primarily used to support women's reproductive health. It is often recommended for managing menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. Additionally, it may help alleviate menstrual cramps and discomfort. Some herbalists also use it for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Energetic Qualities: In traditional herbalism, Black Cohosh is considered cooling and drying. It is often associated with a grounding and calming energy, believed to support the body's natural rhythms and hormonal balance. Precautions: Black Cohosh should be used with caution, particularly in individuals with liver disorders, as it has been associated with liver toxicity in rare cases. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid using it unless under the supervision of a healthcare provider. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before using Black Cohosh, especially if you are taking other medications or have a medical condition. Distribution: Black Cohosh is native to eastern North America, from southern Ontario to Georgia and west to Missouri and Arkansas. It commonly grows in rich, moist, and partially shaded forests, often found in the understory of deciduous woods. Growing Zones: Black Cohosh thrives in USDA hardiness zones 4 to 8. It prefers shaded to partially shaded locations with rich, well-drained soil. Harvesting: The roots and rhizomes of Black Cohosh are typically harvested in the fall, after the plant has gone to seed and the aerial parts have begun to die back. The roots are carefully dug up, cleaned, and dried for medicinal use. Parts Used: The primary part of the Black Cohosh plant used in herbal medicine is the root and rhizome.
Black Walnut Hull
Botanical Name: Juglans nigra Family: Juglandaceae Description: Black Walnut is a large deciduous tree that can grow up to 100 feet tall. It has a dark brown to black bark and produces round, green fruit containing a hard shell and the edible nut. The hull, which surrounds the nut, is green when unripe and dark brown or black when mature. Historical Use: The hulls of Black Walnut have been used by Native Americans for their astringent and antiparasitic properties. They were used to treat fungal infections, skin conditions, and as a natural dye. Medicinal Uses: Black Walnut hull is traditionally used for its potential to support digestive health and cleanse the body of parasites. It is also used for its antifungal and astringent properties, and to support skin health. Energetic Qualities: Black Walnut is considered drying and cooling. It is believed to have cleansing and purifying energy. Precautions: Black Walnut hull should be used with caution. It is not recommended for long-term use or in high doses. Individuals with nut allergies should avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to eastern North America, Black Walnut trees are found in forests and cultivated areas. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 4 to 9. Harvesting: The hulls are harvested in the fall when they are mature and dark brown or black. They are then dried for use. Parts Used: Hulls.
Boswelia
Botanical Name: Boswellia serrata Family: Burseraceae Description: Boswellia is a deciduous tree that grows up to 50 feet tall. It has compound leaves, small white flowers, and produces a fragrant resin known as frankincense, which exudes from cuts in the bark. Historical Use: Boswellia resin has been used for thousands of years in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for its anti-inflammatory properties. It was also used in religious rituals and as incense. Medicinal Uses: Boswellia is traditionally used to support joint health and reduce inflammation. It is also used to promote respiratory health and support digestive function. Energetic Qualities: Boswellia is considered warming and drying. It is believed to have grounding and centering energy. Precautions: Boswellia is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to India and the Arabian Peninsula. Cultivated in dry, mountainous regions. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 10 to 12. Harvesting: The resin is harvested by making incisions in the bark and allowing the sap to harden. It is then collected and dried. Parts Used: Resin.
Butterfly Pea Flower
Botanical Name: Clitoria ternatea Family: Fabaceae Description: Butterfly Pea Flower is a perennial vine that grows up to 10 feet long. It has bright green leaves and striking blue or white flowers shaped like a butterfly. Historical Use: Butterfly Pea Flower has been used in traditional Ayurvedic and Thai medicine for its potential cognitive and stress-relieving properties. It is also used as a natural dye. Medicinal Uses: Butterfly Pea Flower is traditionally used to support cognitive function, promote relaxation, and improve hair and skin health. It is also used in teas for its antioxidant properties. Energetic Qualities: Butterfly Pea Flower is considered cooling and soothing. It is believed to have calming and relaxing energy. Precautions: Butterfly Pea Flower is generally considered safe. However, pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 10 to 12. Harvesting: Flowers are harvested when fully open and are typically dried for use. Parts Used: Flowers.
Calendula
Botanical Name: Calendula officinalis Family: Asteraceae Description: Calendula is an annual herb that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has bright green, lance-shaped leaves and produces vibrant orange or yellow flowers that bloom throughout the summer. Historical Use: Calendula has been used since ancient times for its healing properties. It was used by the Greeks, Romans, and in medieval Europe to treat wounds, skin conditions, and as a dye. Medicinal Uses: Calendula is traditionally used to support skin health, promote healing of minor wounds, and soothe irritated skin. It is also used to support digestive health and reduce inflammation. Energetic Qualities: Calendula is considered warming and drying. It is believed to have uplifting and restorative energy. Precautions: Calendula is generally well-tolerated, but individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid it. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to southern Europe. Now widely cultivated in gardens and farms worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 2 to 11. Harvesting: Flowers are harvested when fully open and are typically dried for use. Parts Used: Flowers.
Camellia Seed
Botanical Name: Camellia oleifera Family: Theaceae Description: Camellia is an evergreen shrub or small tree that grows up to 20 feet tall. It has dark green, glossy leaves and produces white or pink flowers. The seeds are contained within a woody capsule. Historical Use: Camellia seed oil has been used for centuries in East Asia for culinary and cosmetic purposes. It was traditionally used to nourish the skin and hair. Medicinal Uses: Camellia seed oil is rich in antioxidants and is used to support skin and hair health. It is also used to promote cardiovascular health due to its high content of unsaturated fatty acids. Energetic Qualities: Camellia seed oil is considered neutral in energy. It is believed to nourish and moisturize the skin and hair. Precautions: Camellia seed oil is generally well-tolerated. It is important to use it in moderation and consult a healthcare professional before use if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to China. Cultivated in East Asia and other subtropical regions. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 7 to 9. Harvesting: Seeds are harvested in the fall when the capsules are mature and dry. They are then pressed to extract the oil. Parts Used: Seeds.
Carrot Seed
Botanical Name: Daucus carota Family: Apiaceae Description: Carrot is a biennial plant that grows up to 2 feet tall. It has feathery green leaves and produces small white flowers arranged in umbels. The seeds are small, brown, and aromatic. Historical Use: Carrot seeds have been used since ancient times for their medicinal properties. They were used by the Greeks and Romans to support digestive health and as a diuretic. Medicinal Uses: Carrot seed oil is traditionally used to support skin health, promote detoxification, and aid digestion. It is also used in aromatherapy for its calming effects. Energetic Qualities: Carrot seed oil is considered warming and drying. It is believed to have grounding and stabilizing energy. Precautions: Carrot seed oil should be used in moderation. It is important to dilute it before topical use and consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to Europe and southwestern Asia. Now widely cultivated as a vegetable and for medicinal purposes. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 3 to 10. Harvesting: Seeds are harvested in the second year when the flower heads have dried. They are then cleaned and dried for use. Parts Used: Seeds.
Cascade Hops
Botanical Name: Humulus lupulus var. lupulus Family: Cannabaceae Description: Cascade hops is a vigorous, climbing perennial plant that can grow up to 20 feet tall. It has lobed leaves and produces cone-shaped flowers called strobiles, which are rich in lupulin glands. Historical Use: Hops have been used for centuries in brewing beer for their bittering and preservative properties. They were also used in traditional medicine to support digestive health and promote relaxation. Medicinal Uses: Cascade hops are traditionally used to support relaxation and promote restful sleep. They are also used to support digestive health and reduce nervous tension. Energetic Qualities: Hops are considered cooling and drying. They are believed to have calming and sedative energy. Precautions: Hops should be used with caution in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to Europe, western Asia, and North America. Cultivated in temperate regions worldwide for brewing. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 3 to 8. Harvesting: The cone-shaped flowers are harvested in late summer to early fall when they are fully mature and aromatic. They are then dried for use. Parts Used: Flowers (strobiles).
Cayenne
Botanical Name: Capsicum annuum Family: Solanaceae Description: Cayenne is a perennial shrub that grows up to 3 feet tall. It has lance-shaped leaves and produces small, white flowers that develop into long, red, fiery hot peppers. Historical Use: Cayenne has been used for thousands of years by Native Americans and in traditional medicine for its stimulating and warming properties. It was used to support digestive health, improve circulation, and as a spice. Medicinal Uses: Cayenne is traditionally used to support digestive health, improve circulation, and relieve pain. It is also used to support cardiovascular health and boost metabolism. Energetic Qualities: Cayenne is considered extremely warming and stimulating. It is believed to enhance circulation and invigorate energy. Precautions: Cayenne should be used with caution, especially in individuals with gastrointestinal issues or sensitive skin. It can cause irritation and burning. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to Central and South America. Now widely cultivated in warm climates worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 9 to 11. Harvesting: Peppers are harvested when they are fully ripe and red. They are then dried and ground into powder for use. Parts Used: Fruits (peppers).
Chamomile
Botanical Name: Matricaria chamomilla (German chamomile) / Chamaemelum nobile (Roman chamomile) Family: Asteraceae Description: Chamomile is a small, aromatic annual or perennial herb that grows up to 1-2 feet tall. It has finely divided leaves and produces small, daisy-like white flowers with yellow centers. Historical Use: Chamomile has been used for centuries in European and traditional medicine for its calming and soothing properties. It was used to support digestive health, promote relaxation, and improve skin conditions. Medicinal Uses: Chamomile is traditionally used to support relaxation and restful sleep, soothe digestive discomfort, and promote skin health. It is also used to reduce inflammation and alleviate minor pain. Energetic Qualities: Chamomile is considered cooling and drying. It is believed to have calming and soothing energy. Precautions: Chamomile is generally well-tolerated, but individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family should avoid it. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to Europe and western Asia. Now widely cultivated worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 4 to 9. Harvesting: Flowers are harvested when fully open and are typically dried for use. Parts Used: Flowers.
Chaste Berry
Botanical Name: Vitex agnus-castus Family: Lamiaceae Description: Chaste Berry is a deciduous shrub that grows up to 20 feet tall. It has palmate leaves and produces small, fragrant purple flowers followed by dark, peppercorn-like berries. Historical Use: Chaste Berry has been used since ancient Greek and Roman times for its potential to support women's reproductive health. It was traditionally used to manage menstrual irregularities and alleviate symptoms of PMS and menopause. Medicinal Uses: Chaste Berry is traditionally used to support hormonal balance, alleviate symptoms of PMS, and promote reproductive health. It is also used to support breast health and reduce symptoms of menopause. Energetic Qualities: Chaste Berry is considered cooling and drying. It is believed to have balancing and harmonizing energy. Precautions: Chaste Berry should be used with caution in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to the Mediterranean region and Central Asia. Now cultivated in warm climates worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 6 to 9. Harvesting: Berries are harvested in the fall when they are fully ripe. They are then dried for use. Parts Used: Berries.
Cloves (Ceylon)
Botanical Name: Syzygium aromaticum Family: Myrtaceae Description: Clove is an evergreen tree that grows up to 40 feet tall. It has large, glossy green leaves and produces clusters of small, pink flower buds that turn brown and are harvested as cloves. Historical Use: Cloves have been used for thousands of years in cooking and traditional medicine. They were highly prized in ancient trade and were used to support digestive health, relieve pain, and as a spice. Medicinal Uses: Cloves are traditionally used to support digestive health, alleviate pain, and reduce inflammation. They are also used in dental care for their numbing and antimicrobial properties. Energetic Qualities: Cloves are considered warming and stimulating. They are believed to enhance circulation and invigorate energy. Precautions: Cloves should be used in moderation. Excessive use can cause gastrointestinal irritation. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to the Maluku Islands (Moluccas) in Indonesia. Now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 10 to 12. Harvesting: Flower buds are harvested when they are pink and are dried to become cloves. Parts Used: Flower buds (cloves).
Cinnamon
Botanical Name: Cinnamomum verum (Ceylon cinnamon) / Cinnamomum cassia (Cassia cinnamon) Family: Lauraceae Description: Cinnamon is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 60 feet tall. It has thick, aromatic bark and produces small yellow or white flowers. The inner bark is harvested and dried to produce cinnamon sticks or ground into powder. Historical Use: Cinnamon has been used since ancient times in cooking and traditional medicine. It was highly valued for its aromatic properties and was used to support digestive health, improve circulation, and as a spice. Medicinal Uses: Cinnamon is traditionally used to support digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and improve circulation. It is also used for its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Energetic Qualities: Cinnamon is considered warming and stimulating. It is believed to enhance circulation and invigorate energy. Precautions: Cinnamon should be used in moderation. Excessive use can cause gastrointestinal irritation and allergic reactions. Cassia cinnamon contains coumarin, which can be toxic in large amounts. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before use, especially if pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medications. Distribution: Native to Sri Lanka and southern India. Now cultivated in tropical regions worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 9 to 12. Harvesting: The inner bark is harvested from young branches, dried, and rolled into quills or ground into powder. Parts Used: Bark.
Damiana
Botanical Name: Turnera diffusa Family: Passifloraceae Description: Damiana is a small, aromatic shrub that grows up to 6 feet tall. It has small, serrated leaves and produces small yellow flowers followed by sweet-smelling fruits. Historical Use: Damiana has been used traditionally in Central and South America as an aphrodisiac and for enhancing sexual health. It was also used by the indigenous peoples for its mood-enhancing properties. Medicinal Uses: Damiana is traditionally used to support sexual health, improve mood, and enhance overall vitality. It is also used to support digestive health and reduce anxiety. Energetic Qualities: Damiana is considered warming and stimulating. It is believed to invigorate and elevate energy and mood. Precautions: Damiana should be used with caution, particularly in individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 9 to 11. Harvesting: Leaves and stems are harvested during the flowering season and dried for use. Parts Used: Leaves and stems.
Elderberry
Botanical Name: Sambucus nigra Family: Adoxaceae Description: Elderberry is a deciduous shrub or small tree that grows up to 30 feet tall. It has compound leaves, small white or cream-colored flowers in large clusters, and dark purple to black berries. Historical Use: Elderberry has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting properties. It was commonly used to treat colds, flu, and other respiratory conditions. Medicinal Uses: Elderberry is traditionally used to support immune health, particularly during cold and flu season. It is also used to promote respiratory health and reduce inflammation. Energetic Qualities: Elderberry is considered cooling and moistening. It is believed to have protective and immune-boosting energy. Precautions: Raw elderberries, leaves, and stems contain cyanogenic glycosides, which can be toxic. Berries should be cooked before consumption. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to Europe, Africa, and parts of Asia. Now widely cultivated in temperate regions worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 3 to 9. Harvesting: Berries are harvested in late summer to early fall when they are fully ripe. Flowers are harvested in late spring to early summer. Both are dried for use. Parts Used: Berries and flowers.
Eleuthero Root
Botanical Name: Eleutherococcus senticosus Family: Araliaceae Description: Eleuthero, also known as Siberian ginseng, is a woody shrub that grows up to 10 feet tall. It has compound leaves, small greenish-yellow flowers, and produces black berries. Historical Use: Eleuthero has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to enhance physical performance, increase energy, and improve overall health. Medicinal Uses: Eleuthero is traditionally used as an adaptogen to help the body manage stress, support immune function, and increase stamina and endurance. Energetic Qualities: Eleuthero is considered warming and stimulating. It is believed to enhance energy and resilience. Precautions: Eleuthero should be used with caution in individuals with high blood pressure. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to Northeast Asia, including China, Japan, and Russia. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 3 to 7. Harvesting: Roots are harvested in the fall after the plant has reached maturity. They are dried and processed for use. Parts Used: Roots.
Fennel
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare Family: Apiaceae Description: Fennel is a perennial herb that grows up to 6 feet tall. It has feathery leaves, yellow flowers in umbels, and aromatic seeds. Historical Use: Fennel has been used since ancient times in cooking and traditional medicine. It was used by the Greeks and Romans to support digestive health and as a spice. Medicinal Uses: Fennel is traditionally used to support digestive health, alleviate gas and bloating, and promote lactation in nursing mothers. It is also used to soothe coughs and respiratory issues. Energetic Qualities: Fennel is considered warming and moistening. It is believed to enhance digestion and respiratory function. Precautions: Fennel should be used in moderation. Individuals allergic to plants in the Apiaceae family should avoid it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare professional before use. Distribution: Native to the Mediterranean region. Now widely cultivated worldwide. Growing Zones: Prefers USDA zones 4 to 9. Harvesting: Seeds are harvested in late summer to early fall when they are fully mature and dried for use. Parts Used: Seeds, leaves, and bulb.