Alcohol

Found in various forms in plants, often as constituents of volatile oils or as sterols.  Other common forms of alcohol are waxes - combinations of alcohol’s and fatty acids which are found in plants in the coating of leaves and other parts.

Alkaloids

Are the most potent group of constituents that act upon the human body and mind.  They act on the liver, the nerves, lungs, and the digestive system.  They are very diverse in structure.

Antrhaquinones

Are known to be effective purgatives which usually appear in the form of glycosides.  They gently stimulate the colon 8 to 12 hours after they are taken.

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Bitter Principles

These are a group of chemicals that have a very bitter taste.  They have a wide diversity of structure but most belong to the iridoids and some to the terpenes group.  There therapeutic value is good because they stimulate the secretion of digestive juices and they also stimulate activity of the liver which aids hepatic elimination.

Carbohydrates

A great variety can be found in plants either in forms of sugar such as glucose and fructose or as starches.  It can also occur in more complex forms of cellulose and structural support of the plants.  The large polysaccharides can further bond with other chemicals and produce molecules like pectin.  Gums and mucilage’s are very complex carbohydrates found in some excellent healing herbs.

Chain Acids

(Aliphatic Acids)  range from simple formic acid to citric acid and valeric acid.  Ring acids are an important pharmacological group.  The simplest aromatic acid is Benzoic Acid found in many resins and balsams such as Gum Benzoin.

Courmarins

Have a limited effect on the body, but are a powerful anti-clotting agent.

Flavones & Flavonoid Glycosides

Are one of the most common groups of plant constituents in herbs.  They have a wide range of qualities from anti-spasmodic and diuretic to circulatory and cardiac stimulants.

Plant Acids

Weak organic fruits found in the plant kingdom such as citric acid found in citrus fruit.  Organic acids divided into carbon chain, carbon ring and COOH group.

Saponins

Have attracted the attention of pharmaceutical chemists because they can be used in the synthesis of cortisone, a strong anti-inflammatory drug, as well as an expectorant.

Tannins

Cause an astringent action.  They act on proteins and some other chemicals to form a protective layer on skin and mucous membranes.

Volatile Oils

Most are based on simple molecules like Opene or Isopentane which can combine in many different ways to form Terpenes.  You can find volatile oils in aromatic plants.  Depending on the combination the smell will vary.  The range of aromatic oils is very large and each has unique properties.  All aromatic oils are antiseptic.  Oils are easily transported and distribute throughout the body first acting locally and then on the whole system.  When taken internally or applied externally they will show up in the urinary system, the lungs, the bronchial, and in secretions like saliva or tears.  They can stimulate the production of white blood cells enhancing the bodies natural defense system.  Volatile Oils stimulate tissues they come in contact with the oil, leading to either a slight irritation or to numbing.  They also aid digestion by stimulating the lining of the colon which increases the flow of gastric juices and induces feelings of hunger.  They act on the central nervous system - some relax and sedate such as Chamomile while others stimulate like Peppermint but all induce a state of inner ease and well being reducing tension and depression.