07. APOTHECARY'S GUIDE TO HERBS

For those who may have a character involved in a profession that cares for illnesses and wounds, this is a list of useful herbs and plants that can aid in healing, as well as plants that can be poisonous. This is not by any means a master list. It is merely meant to aid those who need access to a list of useful plants.



Agrimony- Also known as church steeples, cockeburr, or sticklewort. It is easily recognized by it's small, yellow flowers arranged along stems. It has a thick base of leaves and appears slightly bush-like. The flowers can be dried and used to make a tea or tonic. The leaves can also be dried and used. It is used to treat sore throat, upset stomach, mild diarrhea, fevers, coughs, asthma, and skin sores. It has tannins that work as an astringent and can be used in gargles to clean and sooth the throat. Pregnant and nursing women should not use agrimony.

Alfalfa- Also known as buffalo grass, lucerne. Commonly used as a food item for both people and livestock, it can also be used in the treatment of arthritis, digestive problems, as a diuretic, bad breath, and as an immune booster. It is high in nutrients and cheaply acquired. The leaves, stems, and sprouts are all commonly used in remedies and as food. It can work as an anti-coagulant. Pregnant and nursing women should not eat the seeds. The seeds have been known to increase risk of miscarriage. The seeds can be dangerous to other people as well due to the presence of a toxic amino acid.

Aloe- Also commonly referred to by it's scientific name, aloe vera. The gel inside the leaves can be used to treat external burns, cuts, scrapes, and skin irritants such as poison ivy. It also works as a moisturizer and can treat other skin ailments, such as acne. It tends to grow in warmer areas, sometimes in semi-tropics. It is not safely ingested by humans. 

Angelica- Also called holy ghost, wild celery, or masterwort. All parts of the plant can be safely used to treat symptoms of menopause, gas, appetite loss, other digestive problems, respiratory ailments, and arthritis. It can be used to treat fever with some degree of success. It can be boiled and combined with honey to make a cough syrup. Sometimes it is dried and used in teas. It can also be a viable food source, though it is not recommended in any form for pregnant women. It is also used as flavoring in confectioneries and liquor. 

Anise- Anise tea can be made from the seeds of the plant. It can improve digestion, treat gas and bad breath, and relieve coughing. It can be used as an expectorant. 

Arnica- Also called leopard's bane, mountain daisy, and mountain arnica. The flowers can be crushed into an ointment to treat sore muscles, sprains, and bruises. It serves as an anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-septic. It should never be taken internally and can cause irritation if used on the skin for too long.

Basil- A popular herb in cooking, this plant also has several medicinal uses. Dried, the leaves can be used to make teas and infusions that can soothe stomach spasms. It can also help treat kidney problems, loss of appetite, cold, warts, and snake and insect bites. Mixed with water, it makes a decent gargle for soothing and cleaning the throat.

Bearberry- A lesser known herb, also called mountain box or bear's grape. The leaves can be used to make a tea or infusion that can then be ingested. It is specifically used to treat urinary tract issues, such as infections, and is also used as an astringent, diuretic, and antiseptic. In high doses the plant become toxic. Children and pregnant women should never be given this herb.

Bilberry- Also called huckleberry, whortleberry. The leaves and berries can be used to treat stomach cramps and diarrhea. The berries are a good source of antioxidants that help improve the flow of blood, lower blood pressure, and prevent clotting. These and the presence of vitamins A and C can help maintain good vision. The berries and leaves can be used to make a tea that is good for all of those things, as well as hemorrhoids and bruising. The berries can be dried and turned into a powder to later be mixed with water for a healthy drink or a form of medicine.

Black Cherry- Also called bird cherry or rum cherry. The bark from this tree is used in the treatment of coughs. It can be made into a tea or a syrup. In some cases it can also treat worms, ulcers, and burns. It can sooth a sore throat and is used in the treatment of pneumonia. It reduces the cough reflex by soothing the muscles of the throat and lungs.

Black Cohosh- Also called black snakeroot, bugwort, bugbane. The roots and stem of this plant can be used as a diuretic and to treat menstrual irregularities in women. It can help lessen the symptoms of menopause in women. It also works to sooth rheumatism and sore throats. It is similar to another plant, blue cohosh, in appearance. However, blue cohosh may be toxic and should never be used. Black cohosh is best used in patients over thirty.

Black walnut- The nut of this tree can be used to treat fungal infections, warts, poison ivy, and other skin problems. It can be used to aid in healthy digestion, reduce inflammation, and promote a healthy heart. It is also useful in boosting the immune system and is a good source of nutrition.

Bergamot- This plant produces a citrus fruit. The peel of the fruit is used for medicinal purposes by creating an oil. The oil can be used to treat skin conditions like psoriasis. It can also be used on tumors that are caused by fungal infections and to combat loss of pigment in the skin. It is effective in preventing and treating lice and other similar parasites.

Blueberry- A popular food source, the berry of this plant, as well as the leaves, can also be used in making various medicines. Not to be confused with bilberry. It can be used to prevent cataracts and glaucoma in the eyes as well as to treat ulcers, urinary tract infections, chronic fatigue, colic, fever, and hemorrhoids. It is an excellent source of vitamins that can boost energy. When the fruit and leaves are dried they can be used to treat diarrhea. Tea made from the leaves can sooth a sore throat and swelling of the mouth or lining of the throat.

Boneset- Also known as feverwort, agueweed, sweat plant. The leaves and flowers of this plant can be used to induce sweating to fight fever caused by colds and flus. It is also used in the treatment of arthritis, indigestion, loss of appetite, constipation, cholera, dengue, typhoid, and malaria. It works as an anti-inflammatory. It is best used in small amounts. In larger amounts it can cause nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. If consumed fresh it is toxic, therefore the plant must be dried before consumption. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Borage- Also called beebread, star flower, talewort. The flowers can be used in various treatments for fever, lung infections, and inflammation. It can also be used as a diuretic. The seeds can be turned into an oil that, when consumed, boosts the immune system and serves as an anti-inflammatory.

Buckthorn- Referring to the alder buckthorn, also called alder dogwood, arrow wood, dogwood. The bark of the tree can be aged, dried, or heated to make medicines. It works as a laxative, can be used as a general tonic, and can even help treat some cancers.

Burdock- Also called burr and beggar's buttons. The seeds, leaves, and roots of this plant can be used in the treatment of wounds and infections. It can also be used to treat digestive problems, urinary tract infections, ulcers, eczema, and psoriasis. It is a detoxifier with anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties. Because of this, it works well as a skin cleanser and can be used to treat acne. It works well for boosting energy and stamina. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should use caution if using this herb.

Butterbur- Also called coughwort. The leaves and stems can be used to treat coughs, urinary tract issues, and fever. It can also be used to help expel certain parasites from the body. As an anti-inflammatory it can be used to treat headaches, including migraines, and muscle spasms. It can also be effective in treating bronchitis and asthma. 

Catnip- Also called catmint. Catnip, a favorite of human feline companions, can be used in humans to treat cough, skin irritation, bruises, restlessness, and gas. As an anti-inflammatory, it can also be used to treat colds, fever, and flu. It also works as a mild sedative and can calm upset stomach and diarrhea. It is not safe for pregnant women as it can stimulate the uterus and cause miscarriage. It is not safe for children.

Cayenne- Also called capsicum, chili pepper, red pepper. Only found in tropical regions, cayenne is not a common herb in much of Suviel. However, where it can be found (usually as an import) it works as a pain reliever and an infection fighter. It is also used in the seasoning of foods. It can stimulate blood flow and contains powerful antioxidants. Large amounts can irritate the stomach and it is not recommended for external use.

Celery- The fruit and seeds of this plant can be dried or pressed into oil for use in medicines. It treats joint pain, hysteria, nervousness, and headache. It can also treat loss of appetite and weight loss due to malnutrition. As a tea it can help promote relaxation and sleep as well as kill bacteria in the urinary tract. In digestion it can help regulate bowel movements, start menstruation, and treat gas. Because it can start a menstrual period it should not be used as a medicine for pregnant women. It can also limit the flow of breast milk, making it dangerous for a woman trying to breastfeed but also useful for drying up the flow of milk.

Chamomile- Chamomile flowers can be dried and used to create teas and infusions that are used for calming. It's ability to sooth can help with sleep and tension as well as ailments such as indigestion, heartburn, and anxiety. It can also be used as a wide-spectrum anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and antispasmodic. It can be used for topical treatments to skin ailments.

Chaste tree- Also called chaste berry, monk's pepper. The fruits of this tree can be used to relieve menstrual cramps for women. It can also help regulate a menstrual cycle and treat other menstrual disorders. It is not safe to take while pregnant.

Chickweed- The leaves of this plant can be used dried or fresh to make medicines. It can be taken for constipation and stomach or bowel problems. There is some thought that is might treat certain blood disorders and it has been proven useful in treating asthma and other lung diseases. It has vitamin C that can both treat and prevent scurvy. Topically, it can treat psoriasis and other irritants that cause itching. It may help treat rabies.

Chicory- Also called succory. The entire plant can be used in the treatment loss of appetite and indigestion. It can also be used as a blood cleanser, nerve calmer, and diuretic.

Cinnamon- Cinnamon back can be used in a variety of treatments but especially in the treatment of stomach problems and colds. It can soothe and upset stomach or help treat indigestion. It can also help improve body temperature, making it good for the treatment of cold extremities and arthritis. It can treat headaches as well. It can help relieve the symptoms of cold or flu, though it cannot cure them. It has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it good in treating such ailments as yeast infections and urinary tract infections.

Cloves- Another herb used to season food as well as treat ailments, this plant can be used to boost the immune system and doubles as an antioxidant. It can also be used as a mild antibacterial agent. Oil made from the leaves of this plant can act as a mild pain reliever, primarily for things such as toothaches. As a tea it can lessen the affects of and even help prevent colds and flu. As an added benefit it can also aid and regulate digestion.

Clubmoss- Also called groundpine, stag's horn moss, wolf's claw moss, running pine. The entire plant can be used for medicinal purposes. It can be used as a laxative or to purge the body. It can treat pain after childbirth, fever, and weakness as well as help stop the bleeding of wounds. Kidney and urinary tract disorders sometimes respond to treatment from this plant. It can also calm stomach upset and diarrhea. 

Comfrey- Also called knitbone, slippery root, blackwort. Comfrey has limited uses when made into a poultice to help stop bleeding. In the past it was drank as a tea but it has also been known to be toxic to humans when ingested.

Cornflower- The flowers of this plant are dried in order to make medicine. It can be used to make a tea that will treat fever, constipation, and chest congestion. Women can take it to treat menstrual disorders and vaginal yeast infections.

Cranberry- The berries of this plant can be eaten or juiced for the prevention and treatment of urinary tract infections. It is highly recommended that pregnant women drink the juice to avoid such infections during the pregnancy. It can also be used to treat kidney stones, increase urine flow, kill germs, and reduce fever. It can be useful in treating common colds, flu, heart disease, increase memory function, as well as prevent and treat scurvy.

Dandelion- The leaves, flowers, and roots of this plant can all be used medicinally as well as for sustenance. It can be used as a diuretic as well as in detoxification of the body. In women it can be used to treat breast inflammation and to stimulate milk flow in nursing mothers. It is also useful in treating diarrhea and fever. it can be dried and used to make teas or infusions or it can be eaten as is or even cooked in certain dishes.

Echinacea- Also called purple coneflower, coneflower. The roots, leaves, and flowers of this plant can all be dried and used to make teas and infusions that are very effective at treating the symptoms of cold and flu. It is a healthy tea that can be enjoyed any time as it helps boost the immune system. It can help sooth a sore throat and fight upper respiratory infections. It has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and antibiotic properties.

Elecampane- The root of this plant can be dried, powdered, or used fresh in medicines that treat lung diseases like asthma, bronchitis, and whooping cough. It can help prevent coughing, including coughing that is caused by tuberculosis. As an expectorant, it helps loosen mucus to be coughed up more easily. It can also be used in the digestive treatments to help with nausea and diarrhea as well as killing worms that can live in the intestines, such as roundworm, threadworm, hookworm, and whipworm.

Elderberry- NOT elder or elderflower. The berries of this plant can be eaten or dried and used as powders for medicine. It makes a good tasting, highly beneficial tea. It can be used to treat several strains of flu, certain immune disorders, and works as a general immune booster. It treats sinus pain, back and leg (sciatica) pain, nerve pain, and chronic fatigue. It is good against and treating viral infections like the common cold. It can also be used to make wine.

Flaxseed- The seeds of this plant can be eaten as food as well as used to treat several medical conditions. It can relieve constipation, treat diarrhea, sooth sores in the lining of the large intestine, and treat inflammation of the lining in the stomach and small intestine. It is an excellent source of fiber. The seeds can also be made into an oil that treats rheumatoid arthritis, anxiety, vaginal infections, high blood pressure, and heart disease.

Feverfew- The leaves of this herb as best used dried but can be used fresh or in the form of an oil extract. It can be used in teas or plain to help treat and prevent migraine headaches. It can also treat fever, irregular menstrual periods, arthritis, asthma, dizziness, and nausea or vomiting. Topically it can be used to treat psoriasis. There is some evidence that it may help with infertility.

Garlic- This popular edible plant can be used to treat conditions related to the circulatory system as well as help detoxify a body and treat some upper respiratory disorders, such as asthma. It can treat mild coughs and fevers and is a good prescription for diphtheria, tuberculosis, and whooping cough. It is slightly effective against fungal infections.

Geranium- The leaves of this plant can be used to lower stress levels, reduce inflammation, relieve pain due to menstruation, strengthen the immune system, and improve kidney function. It has antiseptic, antifungal, and antibacterial properties that can help with wound treatment and other ailments.

Ginger- This plant is a popular cooking ingredient that is excellent at improving digestive health. It can be used fresh, dried, as an oil, or in tinctures. It can be used to treat nausea and lack of appetite and can help a person deal with motion sickness. Sometimes it can be used for treatment of pain, specifically in the stomach.

Grape- The fruit, skin, leaves, and seed of this popular food plant can all be used in the production of medicines. It can be used in preventing heart and blood vessel diseases and high blood pressure. It is useful in treating and preventing swelling that occurs after surgery. There is some evidence it may prevent heart attack and stroke. The fruit can be used to detoxify the body as a mild laxative. It can also help prevent tooth decay, cancer, and liver disorders. Dried grapes (raisins) can be used to help with coughing.

Hawthorn- The leaves, berries, and flowers are all used in the making of medicine. They can treat different heart diseases and blood vessel disorders such as congestive heart failure. They can also be used in the general treatment of chest pain, irregular heart beat, and low and high blood pressure. Sometimes it can be useful in treating digestion, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

Henna- The leaf of this plant can be dried or used fresh to make medicines, including teas and infusions. It can treat severe diarrhea that is caused by some parasites. It has some minor use in treating a few cancers. When used as a tea it can relieve pain from headache, and treat jaundice. It can be used topically to treat minor skin irritation and conditions, such as eczema and scabies. It is also useful for fungal infections and the cleaning and treatment of wounds.

Horsetail- The above-ground parts of this plant can be used to treat kidney and bladder stones, urinary tract infections, and incontinence. It can treat other ailments related to joint pain, weak bones, frostbite, weight loss, heavy menstrual cycles, and hemorrhaging of the nose, lung, or stomach. It can be applied directly to the skin to treat minor wounds and burns.

Jasmine- The flower can be dried or used fresh to make medicinal teas and infusions. When used, it can treat liver disease, liver pain, and abdominal pain caused by diarrhea. It can be used as a mild sedative to help relax a patient. It also functions as an aphrodisiac.

Lavender- The flowers of this plant can be dried and used in making a calming tea that can treat anxiety and depression. It can help a person relax enough to sleep though does not actually make a person drowsy. It can be rendered into an oil that is highly beneficial for treating nervousness and anxiety. It can also help with digestive issues such as upset stomach and vomiting. When turned into an oil or ointment it can be used to treat minor burns and other skin irritations.

Lemon- Not to be confused with lemon balm or lemongrass. The fruit of this plant is used in the making of medicine. The juice from the fruit can be used to treat scurvy, the common cold, and several different flus. The peel can be dried and used in teas for similar uses. Both the juice and tea can be used to aid digestion, reduce pain and swelling, and increase urination.

Lemon balm- The leaves of this plant can be used to treat pain, promote restful sleep, soothe irritation, and boost the immune system. It can be used in the cleansing of minor wounds. As an herbal tea it is excellent at helping to manage stress and anxiety.

Lemongrass- The blades of this grass can be used to make teas that sooth stomach upset and ease nerves. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to treat fever, headache, arthritis, and other pains. As a tea, it is a relaxing beverage that can also help promote sleep. It can stimulate the uterus, so it is not recommended for pregnant women as it may cause miscarriage.

Licorice- The root of this plant is used as a powerful medicine. It can be dangerous when eaten in large quantities. When taken by mouth, it can be used to treat digestive complaints such as stomach ulcers, heartburn, colic, and inflammation of the stomach lining. It can help to treat sore throat, bronchitis, and other bacterial and viral infections. Sometimes it can be used to treat menopausal symptoms in women, malaria, liver disorders, food poisoning, chronic fatigue, and rashes.

Lion's Mane- Also called hedgehog mushroom, bearded hedgehog, bearded tooth, old man’s beard, sheep’s head, bear’s head, monkey’s head. One of the few beneficial mushrooms, this plant can boost the immune system, promote digestive health, improve memory, and treat depression and anxiety. It can also help lower blood pressure.

Marigold- Also called calendula, pot marigold. Characterized by bright orange flowers, this plant can be used in the making of ointments, teas, and tinctures. As an ointment it can soothe sunburns, warts, bug bites, acne, and ulcers as well as help healing wounds, treat dry skin, and diminish blisters. As a tea it can treat acid reflux and ulcers and reduce stomach or menstrual cramps. As an oil it can be used to help relieve coughing, sore throats, or fevers.

Marjoram- The dried leaves of this herb can be added to food or turned into a tea in order to help promote a healthy digestive system and a healthy heart. It is used in the treatment of anxiety and can also be used to help regulate a woman's menstrual periods and cramps. If rendered into an oil it can be used topically to relieve pain in a generalized area. It works as an antimicrobial, antifungal, and antiseptic to help treat viral and bacterial infections.

Marshmallow- The leaves and root of this plant can be used to treat pain and swelling of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. As such, it is useful in soothing sore throats and treating coughs. It can also be used in the treatment of stomach upset and digestive issues and may even help heal urinary tract infections. Because it has slight antibacterial properties it can be used in a poultice to help disinfect and treat minor wounds.

Meadowsweet- Often found in meadows, the clusters of white flowers on this herb make it easily recognizable. It is an astringent that is commonly used for treatments of diarrhea, ulcers, pain, stomach aches, and fever. It is good at reducing headaches and treating rheumatism. It works well when administered as a tea.

Milk Thistle- Milk thistle can be used in detoxification of the body and blood and can help maintain a healthy liver and gallbladder. 

Motherwort- Also called throw-wort, lion's ear, lion's tail. Any above-ground part of this plant can be used in making medicine. It is best dried for later use in tinctures, extracts, and powders. When used, it can treat several heart diseases. It works as a diuretic and can inhibit calcification formations in the arteries. It can lower blood pressure, treat heart palpitations, and treat anxiety disorders. It is safe to use in the elderly.

Oregano- The leaves of this plant can serve as a powerful antibiotic against even some of the worst infections (such as staph and e. coli). However, it's medicinal uses are less well known because it is much preferred as a flavoring for food. However, it can be used to make teas and infusions that can help treat urinary tract and respiratory infections. Applied as an ointment it can even help treat some skin disorders as well as common acne.

Parsley- An herb also used in cooking and seasoning, the leaf seeds and root of this plant can be dried and used to make medicine. It has antibacterial properties that can treat urinary tract infections and can also be used to treat constipation, jaundice, gas, indigestion, colic, cough, asthma, anemia, and high blood pressure. Pregnant women should use caution when taking this as it can start menstrual flow and cause miscarriage.

Passion flower- This herb can be used in the treatment of sleep disorders such as insomnia. It helps make a patient mildly drowsy and encourages healthy sleep. It can also be used to treat anxiety disorders and calm seizures and hysteria. It also helps with disorders such as ADHD, nervousness and excitability, heart palpitations, and high blood pressure. It works to reduce the symptoms of menopause in women and can also be used in general pain relief.

Poppy- The seeds from this plant can be taken by mouth to treat asthma, constipation, cough, and diarrhea. There is some evidence that it treats sleeping problems and infection. In certain doses it can be used as a mild pain reliever.

Red clover- The flower tops of the plant can be dried for medicinal purposes. It is believed to help with a variety of conditions, but its effects are mild at best. It can be used to treat indigestion, whooping cough, other coughs, asthma, bronchitis, and some sexually transmitted diseases. It can help treat some skin sores, burns, and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Rosemary- The leaves of this plant can be used fresh or dried to season food or to make healing teas that work as an antibacterial and antioxidant treatment for cleansing and detoxing the body. It has some minor anti-inflammatory properties that can be used to reduce swelling, treat headache, and relieve minor pains.

Sage- Sage can be dried or used fresh to make teas and infusions that are good for combating anxiety and nervous disorders. It can also be used as a seasoning in food. It has anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat stomach disorders and pain.

Spearmint, mint, peppermint- All three of these herbs are excellent at soothing headaches when ingested as teas, fresh, or in an oil form. Their soothing scent can help clear nasal and chest congestion due to cold and flu and their high availability makes them popular herbs for such treatments. Used topically, these herbs can treat a variety of minor aches and pains as well as sooth some skin irritations. They can also help sooth upset stomach or calm a troubled mind. To top it all off, they taste great as well.

Skullcap- Also called mad dog, hoodwort, blue pimpernel. This plant is a well-known sleep aid. It reduces anxiety and other nervous disorders by working as a tranquilizer. It can help relieves symptoms such as muscle spasms and twitches as well as lower blood pressure. It has some anti-inflammatory properties that can be used in the treatment of pains such as headache or arthritis. It is not safe for pregnant women as it can easily cause miscarriage.

Stinging nettle- The root and above-ground parts of this plant can all be used in medicine. It can be used with varying degrees of success to treat urinary tract problems, such as frequent or painful urination. It is also used to treat different joint ailments in both tea and topical forms. It can be used as a watered-down tea to help treat urinary tract infections.

St. John's Wort- Also called Johnswort, goatweed, amber. This plant is best used as an anti-depressant. It treats depression and anxiety by functioning as an SSRI (selective serotonin re uptake inhibitor). This means that is allowed the body to retain and use more serotonin, which is essential in mood regulation. It can also be used to treat minor wounds as an external poultice or mixture. However, it can make sunburn symptoms worse for those with fair skin.

Thyme- The leaves of this plant can be dried or used fresh on foods or in teas as a way to help boost the immune system and improve mental functions. It is a more mild member of the mint family, meaning that it is less potent than some other herbs like it. It can be safely used in children and the elderly. It can detoxify the body and is effective at treating symptoms of cold and flu.

Turmeric- The root of this plant can be used as a powerful antioxidant and detoxifier. However, it is not safe to use while pregnant or nursing. It can stimulate the uterus or cause a menstrual period, which can result in miscarriage. It can also slow the process of blood clotting.

Valerian root- Also known as vandal root. The root of this plant can be used to treat insomnia and anxiety. It is a highly effective sleep aid that can also help alleviate symptoms of stress. It can help a person fall asleep as well as provide more restful sleep. It achieves this by reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, lengthening the time spent asleep, and decreasing motor activity and restlessness during sleep. It can also help treat muscle pain, headache, and joint pain. It is one of a few herbs that is best taken regularly as the affects build up over time. This plant is considered the best herb available for sleep disorders.

Verbena- This plant can be used in the treatment of sore throats and respiratory tract diseases such as asthma, whooping cough, and bronchitis. It can alleviate chest pain and is used to treat heart conditions such as heart failure. There is some evidence that it can help fight depression and hysteria. It is also used in seizure control, arthritis, metabolic disorders, anemia, and fever. It can control pain, spasms, help with exhaustion, calm nervous conditions and digestive disorders, as well as treat jaundice and kidney or urinary tract disorders.

Watercress- Any part of this plant that grows above ground can be used in the making of medicine. Dried or fresh, it can be used to lessen the swelling of the breathing passages in the lungs, can relieve coughing, treat bronchitis, and relieve symptoms of the flu. It can also be used to alleviate constipation, kill parasitic worms, treat and prevent scurvy, and treat symptoms of tuberculosis. It can improve appetite and digestion and is also used as an aphrodisiac. When used in pregnant women it can cause miscarriage.

Wheatgrass- The grass, roots, and rhizome can all be used in the making of medicine. It can be used fresh but is often best stored and dried for later use. It's best use is as a concentrated source of nutrients. It contains vitamins A, C, and E as well as calcum, magnesium, and certain amino acids. When ingested it can increase the production of hemoglobin (chemical in red blood cells that carries oxygen). It can be turned into a juice when fresh.

Willow bark- The bark from several varieties of this trees can be harvested and dried to later be used in teas or infusions. It works as an anti-inflammatory and so can be used to treat headache, muscle pain, menstrual cramps, arthritis, and other pain-related disorders. It can also be used to treat fever and pain from the common cold and flu. It is a very effective pain reliever, though it is not a narcotic, and so is very useful for common pain relief needs.

Witch hazel- The leaf, bark, and twigs can be dried or distilled in water to make medicine. When used directly on the skin it can treat itching, pain, and swelling and can also be used as a cleanser. It can help clean skin injuries and treat hemorrhoids, bruises, insect bites, minor burns, and other minor skin irritations.

Yarrow- Yarrow leaves can be dried and used in teas and infusions or tinctures to treat fever caused by the common cold, flu, or allergies. It can also help treat the absence of menstruation in women, dysentery, diarrhea, and loss of appetite. It can be used to induce sweating in the treatment of fevers and other problems. When applied directly to the skin it can help stop bleeding from hemorrhoids and wounds.

Yellow dock- While the leaf stalks can be used as a food in salads, the root and fruits of this plant are used in medicines. It can be crushed into an oil or burned to treat pain and swelling of the nasal passages and respiratory tract. When ingested it can also help with pain and swelling of the throat as well as a laxative and general tonic. It can treat bacterial infection and some sexually transmitted diseases. Sometimes it is used for its antibacterial properties to treat intestinal and funal infections.


Belladonna- Also known as witch's berry, banewort, death's herb, devil's cherries, fair lady. This herb is a beautiful flower (the name translates to beautiful woman) that is a member of the nightshade family. In very small doses it can be used as a hallucinogen and there are some circles that use it for visions and sorcery. The plant itself can be recognized by large, green, veined leaves and pinkish or purple flowers that look like small cups. The plant also produces purple berries that are just as deadly as the rest of the plant. Accidental - or purposeful - ingestion of the plant often leads to death or permanent damage.

Foxglove- Also known as dead man's bells, witch's gloves. This herb is a beautiful flowering plant with dark green stems and hanging, tube-like purple flowers that can also be shades of gray, white, and pink. If ingested, this herb can slow your heart rate drastically, sometimes to the point of death. However, some folk magic cites it as a protective herb for homes and gardens. 

Wolfsbane- Also known as monkshood, wolf's hat, leopard's bane. This plant is toxic whether ingested or touched, making it one of the more dangerous herbs that can be found. It is part of the buttercup family and sports lovely blue-blossoming flowers. It has been and still is used as an ingredient for arrow poison. In very small dosages it can be used to slow the heart and sedate a person. However, the dangers far outweigh the benefits making it uncommon for anyone to try to use this herb in medicines. The effects of this poison are felt within an hour and death comes quite rapidly after that. It is said that wolfsbane is effective at protecting against werewolves and vampires, but using it in such protections is highly risky as even touching the plant can result in poisoning.

Daffodils- This beautiful yellow-flowering plant is generally not deadly when ingested but is still highly toxic. The effects of this plant are dizziness, shortness of breath, and abdominal pain. While it may not always result in death, ingesting enough of the plant or leaving symptoms untreated will certainly result in death or permanent damage. Some believe that it represents love, luck, and fertility. Keeping a bouquet of them might be considered good luck, and touching them is not dangerous.

Hemlock- Specifically water hemlock. Thought to be used by witches preparing deadly spells and curses, this herb can be used for both good and bad. In the right dosage it can be used as an antispasmodic and sedative. In larger doses it can easily kill an adult human. An overdose of the herb presents itself as paralysis and almost always leads to death. 

Henbane- Also known as stinking nightshade, black henbane. Another member of the nightshade family, this herb can be used in small doses as a hallucinogenic and has been used in folk magic and witchery to produce visions. Small amounts, while not safe, will not usually kill an adult human. In larger amounts death is almost certain.

Mandrake root- Yet another nightshade member, this herb can be used in small amounts as a hallucinogen and hypnotic. It has allegedly been used by witches and other magic users in ceremonies and rituals. As an herb, it can be used to remove warts and other similar growths. In large doses it is just as deadly as it's relatives in the nightshade family.

Oleander- This beautiful plant with it's striking flowers is sometimes valued as an ornamental. While touching it is not deadly, ingesting any part of it is. If eaten, this herb will cause vomiting, diarrhea, erratic or irregular pulse, seizures, coma, and finally death. For some people touching the leaves or sap can cause skin irritation, but it is uncommon.

White snakeroot- This dangerous plant is recognized by flat-topped clusters of small flowers that grow at the top of its stems. This plant is so deadly that ingesting the milk of a cow who has eaten it can kill a person. Symptoms of ingestion include nausea, weakness, abdominal discomfort, reddened tongue, and acidic blood. Depending on the amount ingested, these symptoms will eventually lead to death.

Rosary pea- These plants produce small, red and yellow berries that contain a protein that can kill. However, the berries (or seeds) are not deadly unless they have been broken, scratched, or otherwise damaged to release the deadly poison. It can take no more than a single seed to kill a human. Poisoning leads to organ failure within four days, leading to death shortly after.

Moonseed- The moonseed is a woody, climbing vine that can be found in thickets, woods, and along the banks of streams. All parts of this plant are toxic to humans. The seeds inside the berries produced by this plant look like a crescent moon, which is what gives the plant its name. It can be used in very low doses as a laxative or made into a salve for sores on the skin. However, general ingestion of this plant is not recommended as the toxicity can be fatal.

Lilly of the valley- All parts of this pretty flower are poisonous, including the berries that the plant produces. The red berries may be attractive to children and so should not be grown or kept where children may be present. When any part of the plant is ingested it can cause abdominal pain, vomiting, reduced heart rate, blurred vision, drowsiness, and red skin rashes. It is not guaranteed to kill if ingested, but any amount can result in death in some patients.