Haemorrhoids

This cactus-like plant is native to Africa, but is grown in most hot climates all over the world. The inner gel of the leaf is used in herbal medicine. Action of Aloe vera Aloe vera gel contains compounds called mucopolysaccharides which have a soothing, cooling, astringent and healing action, reduce inflammation and have anti-bacterial properties. [...]

Continue Reading Herb Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)

Witch hazel is native to North America, but can now be found growing in most parts of Europe and Britain. In herbal medicine the leaves and the tree bark are used. Medicinal Properties of Witch hazel Witch hazel contains very high levels of tannins and volatile oils, which are astringent, anti-inflammatory and mildly antiseptic. It [...]

Continue Reading Herb Witch hazel (Hamamelis viginiana)

Borage or Starflower is a plant native to Europe and North Africa, but is now found in Canada and the USA. Used by the Romans and Greeks as a heart tonic and a supplier of courage. Borage has distinctive blue star-shaped flowers and in herbal medicine the seeds, leaves and flowers are used. The seeds [...]

Continue Reading Herb Borage (Borago officinalis)

Psyllium, isphagula or plantago is a plant that is both native and cultivated in Iran and India. The seeds and seed husks are used medicinally. Medicinal Properties of Psyllium Psyllium seeds are high in both insoluble and soluble fibre (mucilage). They contain between 10-30% mucilage. These fibres have a bulking and gel-forming action in the [...]

Continue Reading Herb Psyllium (Plantago ispaghula, Plantago ovata)

Horse chestnut originates from eastern Europe and Asia, but now grows in most temperate climatic zones, and is found widespread throughout Europe and Britain. It is a large deciduous tree and boasts ‘candles’ of beautiful pink and white flowers, and spike-covered pods, which contain the seed or ‘conker’. This seed is used in modern herbal [...]

Continue Reading Herb Horse chestnut (Aesculus hippocastanum)