Herbal Medicine: What Some of Those Terms Really Mean Active Principle: A plant chemical proven to have medical effect. Antiseptic: A substance that prevents or stops the growth of microorganisms that cause infection. Astringent: A substance the draws together the soft tissues such as skin or mucous membranes. Decoction: A drink or liquid extract made by boiling plant bark, roots, berries or seeds in water. Diuretic: A substance that increases the flow of urine. Emollient: A substance that softens and soothes the skin and mucous membranes. Essential Oil: A plant oil that vaporizes readily and is often obtained by steam distillation. Expectorant: A substance that loosens and helps to expel phlegm. Herbal Tea: A beverage made from steeping or boiling herbs. Infusion: A preparation in which flowers, leaves or stems are steeped in water that is not boiling. Liquid extract: Concentrated infusion made by soaking an herb in distilled water, grain alcohol, or glycerin for a long period. Mucous membrane: Lining of body passage, such as the throat, that protects itself with secretions of mucus. Photosensitivity: Sensitivity to sunlight, resulting in rash or burning sensation, brought on by ingestion or application of certain substances. Plaster: Gauze or cloth in which medicine has been wrapped. A plaster is typically applied to the skin. Poultice: An herbal preparation that is usually applied directly to the affected area to relieve pain or swelling. Purgative: A very strong laxative. Tannins: Astringent and bitter compounds found in the seeds and skins of grapes, which slow oxidation and aging. Tincture: An herbal liquid extract that generally involves macerating the herb in alcohol. Volatile Oil: A plant oil that vaporizes readily and is often obtained by steam distillation, used interchangeably with essential oil. Wash: A liquid herbal medicine preparation for external use.7165339937 6c694338c2 Common Terms Used in the Quest for Herbal Remedies The Final Word Having some knowledge of the terms used in herbal medicine will help you when choosing the best method to administer your self-healing remedy. Whether are growing your own herbs (see Nine Healing Herbs You Can Grow Yourself in a Healing Garden) or purchasing fresh herbs from a farmer’s market or herbalist, learning to take care of yourself using natural remedies can greatly enhance your ability to take care of your health when there is no other resource available. http://www.backdoorsurvival.com/index.php/2012/07/24/terms-used-with-herbal-remedies/