A Magickal Herball Compleat.pdf - Magicka School

ody and that there are fewer risks of side effects. However, when using these
plants or plant extracts it should always be borne in mind that you are introducing
chemicals into the body and, although this work will only be dealing with herbal
preparations that are tried, tested and safe, it is as well to remember to look out
for any adverse reactions.
The Categories of Healing Herbs
Herbs that can be used for healing fall into three broad categories:
1. Bitter Herbs
2. Astringent Herbs
3. Nutritive Herbs
Of course, these categories can overlap, so, for example, it is possible for an herb
to be both bitter and nutrititive.
Bitter Herbs
Bitter herbs include alkaloids, phenols and saponins. This group of plants is
especially useful in aiding the dissolution, liquefaction and expulsion of poisonous
substances from the body. Laxatives and diuretics including senna, cascara,
dandelion and juniper are to be found in this category. Also painkillers, such as
white willow bark and herbs with antibiotic properties, including echinacea and
golden seal, belong here.
Astringent Herbs
Tannic acids are present in astringent herbs that can be utilised to prevent
bleeding and diarrhoea, as well as providing the means to tone and tighten soft
tissue. They are good for fortifying blood vessels, preventing and lessening the
effects of varicose veins, as well as soothing haemorrhoids. In this group can be
found nettle, which has anti- haemorrhaging properties; Black plum, which is
good for astringing the lungs, stopping coughs and restraining the intestines to
check diarrhoea; and horse chestnut which eases varicosity.
Nutritive Herbs
Finally, nutritive herbs contain the protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and
minerals that the body depends on for its well-being. Often this category of herbs
is brimming with these qualities as the table below helps to make clear [2].
61