Welcome to our Herbal Glossary!
Here is are some of our favorite herbal allies. We know medicinal mushrooms aren't classified as herbs, but we've included them here. This glossary is meant to be a quick introduction for you to become familiar with their names and some of their uses. We encourage you to explore the herbs that intrigue you the most, read our introduction to herbalism, explore our blog and shop our curated herbal products.
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Anise Hyssop
See ProductsThe name comes from the Greek "hyssopos" and Hebrew "Azob," referring to a sacred herb used for cleansing. Native to southern Europe and the Mediterranean. Brewed as tea, it helps relieve cold symptoms like congestion.
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Arnica
See ProductsArnica has been used for centuries, first discovered by goat herders who observed their goats seeking its flowers to heal after falls. Arnica helps reduce bruising, swelling, and muscle soreness from exercise or sports injuries.
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Ashwagandha
Learn MoreIn Ayurvedic tradition, ashwagandha is considered one of the most powerful herbs, with use dating back over 3,000 years. This adaptogenic root helps strengthen the immune system and targets the negative effects of stress on the body.
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Astragalus
See ProductsAstragalus is a key herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, known for supporting Chi (vital energy). It is used to boost immune function, improve vitality, and protect against illness, making it a valuable ally for overall health and wellness.
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Blue Lotus
Learn MoreBlue Lotus was highly revered by the Ancient Egyptians, symbolizing the Sun God Ra and the power of light. It is known for its calming properties, helping to soothe the nerves and uplift the mood.
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Calendula
See ProductsCalendula has been prized for centuries: the Egyptians used it for skin care, Greeks and Romans in cooking, and it's still part of Indian wedding ceremonies. It supports healthy skin, aids digestion, and adds flavor to culinary dishes.
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California Poppy
See ProductsEarly Spanish settlers in California saw the vibrant poppies lighting the hillsides, using them to guide their ships. California Poppy tincture offers mild sedative, analgesic, and anti-anxiety effects, with no opiates, addiction, or safety concerns.
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Chaga
See ProductsChaga has been valued for centuries in folk medicine for its immune-boosting and healing properties. Used in Asia, Russia, and Siberia, it's known to enhance energy, balance, and reduce inflammation. Enjoy it in tea for overall wellness.
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Chlorella
See ProductsKnown as the “Jewel of the East”, chlorella is a genus of single cell freshwater green algae which is comprised of organisms that have survived as a life form for billions of years. Use chlorella to detoxify, support your immune system, and aid in digestion.
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Cordyceps
Learn MoreLegend has it that yak herders in the Himalayas noticed their yaks became more energetic after grazing on a mushroom. Cordyceps, used in tincture or powder form, boosts energy, detoxifies, stimulates immunity, and acts as a powerful tonic.
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Damiana
See ProductsDamiana, used since Aztec times in Mexico and Central/South America, was initially part of religious rituals before being banned for its passion-boosting effects. It's known for enhancing libido and is a popular natural aphrodisiac.
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Dandelion
See ProductsThe name "dandelion" comes from a 15th-century surgeon who likened its leaves to a lion's tooth (dens lionis). Both the leaf and root have been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat liver, kidney, digestion, and rheumatism issues.
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Echinacea
See ProductsEchinacea was a staple in North American Indian medicine, used for wounds, bites, stings, and snakebites through root poultices. For immune support, take Echinacea at the first sign of a cold to help strengthen the body’s natural defenses.
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Elderberry
See ProductsHippocrates recognized elderberry's benefits in 400 AD. Known as the "medicine chest" of country folk, it's used to boost immunity and combat coughs, colds, flu, and infections. Take as syrup or tincture for maximum benefit.
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Elecampane
Learn MoreElecampane's genus name, Inula Helenium, is said to be inspired by the legendary beauty of Helen of Troy. It supports respiratory and digestive health, relieves coughs and congestion, and known for its anti-parasitic and antimicrobial properties.
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Fennel
Learn MoreIn Greek mythology, humanity received a fiery coal from Mount Olympus in a fennel bulb. Hippocrates praised fennel for treating infant colic. Fennel seeds relax digestive muscles, stimulate bile flow, and reduce digestive pain.
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Ginger
See ProductsIn Ayurvedic, ginger is called the "universal medicine." Used in Chinese Medicine for over 4,000 years, it treats nausea, dysentery, and stimulates digestion. Use ginger for upset stomachs, colds, or flu in tincture, fresh, dried, or tea form.
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Gotu Kola
See ProductsGotu Kola is an Ayurvedic herb that was first used in India where it has a reputation for rejuvenating the body and mind. Gotu kola is said to also develop the crown chakra. Use this herb in a tea to enhance concentration and memory.
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Hawthorn Berry
See ProductsHawthorn symbolizes love and union, deeply rooted in Celtic mythology, where it was believed to house the Faery Folk. Use Hawthorn berry in a tincture or tonic to support heart health and improve circulation.
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Jasmine
See ProductsThe name “Jasmine” derives from the Persian word Yasmin, meaning "Gift from God.” The flower is sacred in India and the Himalayas. Use Jasmine’s uplifting scent to help boost mood. Jasmine is wonderful as a tea or infused in oil.
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Lavender
See ProductsLavender is probably the most well known medicinal herb. Originally from France and the western Mediterranean, lavender is now cultivated worldwide. Lavender can be used as a sleep-aid, to help heal wounds and burns, and to quell anxiety.
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Lemon Balm
See ProductsAlso known as “Sweet Mary,” “Honey Plant,” and “Cure-All,” this herb has been cultivated as a culinary and medicinal plant for over 2,000 years. Use Lemon Balm to combat anxiety, treat wounds, and soothe indigestion.
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Linden
See ProductsLinden features in European folklore, symbolizing love, peace, and happiness. Its flowers are traditionally used to treat colds, coughs, fever, infections, inflammation, high blood pressure, and headaches.
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Lion's Mane
See ProductsLion’s Mane, common in traditional Chinese Medicine, is also known as "deer’s tail," or "pom pom" mushroom. It has adaptogenic properties and help protect against dementia, relieve mild anxiety and depression, and aid in nerve repair.
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Maca
See ProductsMaca, used by the Incas in Peru, grows at altitudes of 7,000-11,000 feet, the highest of any plant. It boosts mood, libido, and stabilizes hormones. Add maca powder to coffee, tea, or smoothies for a natural energy and wellness boost.
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Marshmallow
See ProductsMarshmallow stems were once peeled to reveal the soft pith, which was boiled in sugar syrup and dried to create a chewy treat. As a demulcent, it soothes mucous membranes, relieving minor pain and inflammation.
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Matcha
See ProductsMatcha dates back to the Tang Dynasty in China, where tea leaves were steamed into bricks for easy transport. It boosts metabolism, offers a great coffee alternative, and is packed with antioxidants and fiber.
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Mimosa
See ProductsMimosa—"the happiness flower," is used in Chinese Medicine to cleanse the heart and liver meridians. Its bark relieves muscular discomfort and swelling. Mimosa is also helpful for emotional relief, especially from grief or anxiety.
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Mucuna Pruriens
See ProductsMucuna Pruriens, a jing-enhancing herb in Traditional Chinese Medicine, boosts libido, supports brain health, and improves mood. Jing refers to "life force" or "vital essence." Enjoy it as a tonic or add to drinks.
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Mugwort
Learn MoreMedieval brewers used Mugwort to make a beer or ale called "gruit.” Mugwort is called the “Mother’s Herb” and is traditionally used for dreamwork. Use this herb to aid in lucid dreaming, help regulate periods, and alleviate joint pain.
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Nutmeg
See ProductsEnjoyed by ancient Romans and Greeks for its warm flavor, it offers various benefits. Nutmeg helps relieve pain, soothe indigestion, improve sleep, boost brain function, supports liver health, improves cholesterol, and regulates blood sugar.
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Oat Straw
See ProductsOats, dating back to 2,000 BCE, have long been valued for nutrition. They help balance the menstrual cycle, treat dysmenorrhea, support bone health, and aid urinary tract infections. Drink as an herbal infusion for maximum benefits!
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Peppermint
See ProductsPeppermint has been used since ancient Roman, Greek, and Egyptian times for both culinary and medicinal purposes. It’s a great digestive aid, helping to soothe stomach pains, ease indigestion, and promote overall digestive health.
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Red Clover
Learn MoreRed clover has been used for 400 years in anti-cancer formulas. Rich in phytoestrogens like daidzein and genistein, it mimics estrogen and has been studied for relieving menopause discomfort and supporting hormonal balance.
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Reishi
Learn MoreReishi Mushroom, highly valued in traditional Chinese medicine, is considered one of the top elixirs alongside Ginseng. It boosts the immune system, improves liver function, and helps restore hormonal balance.
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Rose
Learn MoreThe Greeks, Persians, and Romans all used roses as medicine. The botanical name of the Wild Rose, rosaceae canina reflects how the Romans used it to help treat rabid dog bites. Roses have astringent, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and diuretic properties.
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Rosemary
See ProductsRosemary, used since 500 B.C. by ancient Greeks and Romans, aids concentration and digestion. It may relieve muscle pain, boost immunity and circulation, and promote hair growth. This versatile herb offers both culinary and medicinal benefits.
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Saffron
See ProductsSaffron has been used by traditional healers to treat heartache, hemorrhoids, and inflammation. Cleopatra reportedly bathed in saffron-infused milk. It’s known for its aphrodisiac properties and helps with asthma, dry skin, heartburn, and hair loss.
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Sage
See ProductsIn ancient Rome, sage was used to heal ulcers, stop bleeding, and soothe sore throats. The Chinese used it for colds, joint pain, and liver issues. Sage lowers cholesterol, supports liver health, and helps with women's health, particularly menstrual pain.
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Schisandra
See ProductsIn Chinese folklore and Traditional Chinese Medicine, Schisandra is said to "calm the heart and quiet the spirit." Add Schisandra to your home apothecary as a powerful natural remedy for anxiety and emotional balance.
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Shilajit
See ProductsShilajit has been known and used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine as a rejuvenator and anti-aging compound. Shilajit is useful in the treatment of kidney stones, edema, and hemorrhoids, and as an internal antiseptic.
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Spicebush
Learn MoreNative Americans originally used the bark, twigs and berries to make teas that could help treat colds, fevers and rheumatism. Make a warming and stimulating tea from spicebush to help with both digestion and circulation.
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Stinging Nettle
See ProductsStinging nettle is a flowering plant that is found worldwide. It is native to northern Africa, North America, Asia, and Europe. Use Stinging Nettle in a tea to reduce inflammation, help with hay fever, and aid in stabilizing blood sugar levels.
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Thyme
See ProductsThyme’s name is from the Greek word thymos, meaning “strong.” Thyme can be used as a nervine herb (to relieve stress) or to help heal respiratory infections. It can also improve digestion and has antibacterial properties.
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Tremella
See ProductsTremella, a key herb in Chinese Medicine, supports overall immune health. It’s beneficial for relieving aching joints and muscles, and promotes healthy skin and complexion. Add it to your routine for a natural boost to both body and skin health.
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Tulsi
See ProductsTulsi, or "Holy Basil," is a key herb in Ayurvedic medicine and an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress and restore balance. It’s especially beneficial for pain relief, digestive support, and promoting respiratory health.
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Turmeric
See ProductsTurmeric has been used in ancient Ayurvedic medicine as a cleansing herb. Turmeric can aid in reducing overall inflammation and improve digestion. Cook with tumeric, make into a tonic, or take as a tincture!
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Valerian
See ProductsValerian has been used as a medicinal herb since at least the time of ancient Greece and Rome. Valerian can be used to ease insomnia and anxiety, reduce pain, and as a muscle relaxant.
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Witch Hazel
Learn MoreNative Americans have long used witch hazel twigs and bark for various ailments. Brew it in tea to soothe a sore throat or ease symptoms of the common cold. It’s a time-tested remedy for natural healing.
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Wood Betony
Learn MoreThe name Betony comes from Celtic, where "Bew" means "head" and "Ton" means "good." Used by Native Americans and Europeans, Wood Betony is valued for its medicinal and aphrodisiac qualities. It helps relieve headaches and boost vitality.
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Yerba Santa
See ProductsOrigin: It was given its name, “holy weed,” by Spanish priests impressed with its properties.Benefits: Yerba santa is used for respiratory conditions including coughs, colds, tuberculosis, asthma, and chronic bronchitis.
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