Category: C
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Carrier oil
Oil such as wheatgerm, to which essential oils are added in order to dilute them for use. Almond, olive, coconut, or other oil in which herbs are infused, or an essential oil can be diluted for application to the body. A type of oil employed to dilute essential oils for their application in massage and…
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Cardiac stimulant
A substance that promotes circulation and increases cardiac efficiency.
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Calmative
A substance with sedation properties that induces relaxation. An agent with mild sedative or calming effects.
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Cramps
A painful involuntary spasm in the muscles, in which the muscle may stay contracted for some time. Painful, often spasmodic, uncontrollable tightening of a muscle (e.g., in the calf), usually relieved by pulling the end of the affected part (e.g., the foot) in the opposite direction, stretching the involved muscle; pain resembling a muscular cramp.…
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Congestive heart failure
The heart fails to pump efficiently, resulting in swelling, shortness of breath, weakness, etc. Results from diseases or conditions (hypertension, coronary artery disease, myocardial infarction, valvular disease, inflammation, and so on) that impair the pumping efficiency of the heart and cause accumulation of blood and fluid in the lungs and usually else-where in the body.…
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Cold sore
A recurrent, small blister in and around the mouth caused by the herpes simplex virus. Fever blister caused by herpes simplex virus, occurring on the skin or mucous membranes (e.g., at the comer of the mouth). Popular name for mouth sores caused by the herpes simplex virus. A small, highly contagious blister around the mouth…
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Chemopreventive
A chemical agent that can help prevent the development of cancer.
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Cephalgia
Pain in the head; headache.
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Cataracts
Conditions in which there is a loss or reduction of transparency of the lens of the eye causing progressive loss of clarity and detail of images. Clouding of the lens of the eye is a major cause of impaired vision in the United States may be either developmental or degenerative. Developmental occurs congenitally or early…
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Cardioprotective
Protecting the heart function. Capable of shielding the heart from damage caused by, e.g., electrolyte disturbances, infections, ischemia, or toxins.