Herbal Glossary

As herbalists, we rely on many words to help us simplify our communication with each other and the people with whom we share plants - like you! And we want you to have the power of communication too, so we’ve compiled a small glossary that helps to demystify some of the more herbal-minded language on our site.

Demulcent:
Herbs high in polysaccharides that produce a thick and sticky consistency. They cool and soothe and protect mucus membranes that are hot and irritated.

Adaptogens:
Plants that help the body respond to stressful external influences by helping the body support itself.

Tinctures:
A liquid extract of herbs. They might be a single plant or concentrated blend of herbs preserved in a stable solution.

Nervines:
Ranging from mildly calming to more strongly relaxing herbs, nervines help the nervous system by supporting balanced cycles of activity and rest.

Energetics:
The energetic qualities of plants refer to the sometimes subtle ways a plant impacts the human body, mind, and/or spirit. For example, ginger rhizome is energetically warming due to its action of stimulating blood flow in the body. Marshmallow root is energetically moistening due to its demulcent properties. For some herbs, the energetics are obvious by the sensations we experience when we taste or feel the herb or preparation.

Menstruum or Solvent:
The liquids used to extract an herbal preparation are called the menstruum, or solvent. Depending on the preparation and the herbs used, the menstruum could be water, alcohol, vinegar, glycerin or any combination.

Bioavailability:
How much healing benefit is actually absorbed into the blood stream so it can be used by the body