Category: H
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Hyssop hedge
Formerly used for chronic eczema, scrofula, jaundice and dropsy. Violent purgative: should not be used without medical supervision. Hyssop Hedge also known as Gratiola officinalis.
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Horehound
Horehound candies, once the sovereign remedy for coughs, are still remembered by some. Infusion is useful for weak stomach, lack of appetite and persistent bronchitis. Horehound also known as Marrubium vulgare. Horehound, a member of the mint family, has its origins in Europe and North America. It flaunts velvety, creased, grayish-green, oval-shaped leaves, and petite,…
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Henbane
Powerful cerebral and spinal sedative used since remote ages to induce sleep and allay pains. Often an ingredient in witches’ brews because of its power to throw victims into convulsions. Henbane also known as Hyoscyamus niger. A poisonous anticholinergic plant that is sometimes used for its hallucinogenic properties, Hyoseyamus niger.
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Hemlock poison
In the fresh state all parts are very poisonous. Juice was used in early times to execute criminals. Socrates died in this manner. Under proper directions it is a useful sedative for cases of nervous motor disturbances. The active principle, coniine, has proved to be an effective insecticide against aphids and blowflies. Hemlock poison also…
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Hellebore, black
Cherished for its lovely white or pinktinged blossoms. Roots are narcotic; valuable for nervous and cardiac disorders, but should only be used under medical supervision. Hellebore, also known as Helleborus niger.
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Hearts-Ease
Old English favourite. Charming purple, lavender and yellow flowers held former romantic connotations between courting couples. Medicinally used for dropsy, respiratory catarrh and skin eruptions. Hearts-Ease also known as Viola tricolor.
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Hydrotherapy
The therapeutic use of water in treating a range of health problems. Utilizes hot, cold and mineral baths; steam baths, vapour baths and Turkish baths; inhalation therapy; and hot and cold compresses. A form of treatment in which water is used as the therapeutic agent. Used in the practice of physical therapy. A type of…
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Herbal medicine
An ancient holistic system of medicine, which uses the healing properties of medicinal plants to treat a wide range of health disorders and common diseases. The use of plants and other natural substances in the treatment of diseases, pharmacology, pharmacognosy. A system of medical treatment involving the use of substances extracted from plants. The use…
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Horsetail broth
A liquid made from boiling horsetail in water.
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Heartsease
A wildflower, also known as pansy, which can be used to treat a variety of skin ailments, including eczema. Available at health food stores.