List of Herbs B

Herbs - List of Herbs with Definitions and how they are used.

Bacopa (Bacopa Monnieri) - Herb used as supplement to maintain healthy brain activity and aid in memory retention. In India, brahmi tea is given to infants starting in their first month of the life to encourage optimal mental development. Brahmi, like Gingko, is also used by adults who seek better mental functioning. Ingredient in BrightSpark herbal remedy for ADD
Other Names : Thyme-leafed gratiola

Barberry (Berberis vulgaris) - The berries must be ripe when used; taken for fever or diarrhea, dysentery, typhus fever. The fresh juice is used for mouthwash to strengthen gums or gargle. The root-bark contains berberine, a natural anti-biotic that may stimulate the immune system and is effective against E coli which causes bladder infections, cystitis and urinary tract infections. Studies show that it activates the macrophages, white blood cells that circulate throughout the bloodstream devouring harmful microorganisms. Barberry is one of the best remedies for correcting liver function and promoting the flow of bile and an interesting action is its ability to reduce an enlarged spleen. It is indicated when there is an inflammation of the gall-bladder or in the presence of gall stones. Barberry is also indicated when jaundice occurs due to a congested state of the liver. As a bitter tonic with mild laxative effects, it is used to stimulate digestion, it is also used with weak or debilitated people to strengthen and cleanse the system and in the treatment of sciatica, and rheumatoid arthritis. It acts against malaria and is also effective in the treatment of protozoal infection due to Leishmania spp. Other indications include, hepititis, colic, jaundice, diabetes and consumption. Barberry also decreases heart rate, depresses the breathing, stimulates intestinal movement and reduces bronchial constriction. Used externally for sores, burns, ulcers, acne, itch, tetters, ringworm, cuts, bruises and to kill bacteria on the skin.. The berries can be made into jellies or cooked with other fruits.
Other Names : Barbery, Berberidis, Pipperidge Bush.
Part Used : Bark of root or stem

Bearberry (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi) - Ancient Chinese and Native American cultures have been using this herb to treat bladder infection / UTI in both men and women for more than a thousand years. Bearberry contains a substance called arbutin, which is converted in the urine to hydropuinone, a urinary antiseptic and astringent that effects the membranes of the urinary system and will generally soothe, tone and strengthen them. It is a natural diuretic that will literally flush out the kidneys and is specifically used where there is gravel or ulceration in the kidney or bladder. It may be used in the treatment of infections such as cystitis or as part of a holistic approach to more chronic kidney problems. With its high astringency it is used in some forms of bed wetting. As a douche it may be helpful in vaginal ulceration and infection.
Other Names : Uva Ursi
Part Used : The leaves

Bee Pollen is rich in minerals and vitamins, including calcium, magnesium, manganese, potassium, zinc, riboflavin, thiamin and vitamins A,B6,C,D,E and K, and including 12 different unsaturated fatty acids. Bee Pollen is natures perfect food containing all the essential vitamins 22 amino acids, 28 minerals, 14 fatty acids and many trace elements. Bee Pollen helps promote energy and Bee Pollen is used in the treatment of allergies.
Bee Pollen also contains biotin, a vitamin that is important for the skin, hair and nails. Plus, it provides protein, essential oils, essential amino acids, flavonoids and carotenoids, which are important for the synthesis of vitamin A in the body. Other possible benefits include healing skin wounds, acne and fighting gum infections and sore throats.
(Forms available: Creams, ointments, salves, powders, granules, tablets and capsules)

Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains anthocyanosides, a potent bioflavonoid complex with antioxidant properties. The Bilberry extract is used for improved vascular health and shows the most promise in supporting eye health, including pigmentary retinitis, diabetic retinopathy and macular degeneration. Ingredient in UTI-Clear remedy for Bladder Infections.

Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) has been used for thousands of years by native Americans and some forms of the herb have also been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. It is used for a variety of complaints, but has become well known in the Western World for its beneficial effect on hormone functioning due to its phyto-estrogenic properties. Black Cohosh is also used by herbalists to prevent miscarriage. Many women miscarry very early in pregnancy and may not even realize that they have been pregnant. Recent clinical studies[GGL3] done in Germany have confirmed that Cimicifuga is strongly estrogenic and it is widely used to relieve the symptoms associated with PMS and Menopause.
Ingredient in MellowPause herbal remedy for Menopause Relief as well as Fertile XX herbal treatment for Female Fertility.

Blue Gum (Eucalyptus globulus) - The oil of the eucalyptus plant provides relief from the pain of arthritis as well as common muscle strains when rubbed on the skin. It produces a warming sensation by increasing blood flow the the area.
Part Used : Leaves, and the oil distilled from them.
Other Names : Eucalyptus.

Boswella serata - a cream derived from the boswella serata plant that has been used by Indian healers as an effective way to soothe aching joints. Ingredient in Joint Ease herbal remedy for Arthritis

Bromelain - derived from the pineapple plant, bromelain is one of a group of proteolytic enzymes (enzymes capable of digesting protein) that promotes good digestion and assists in the absorption of nutrients from foods and supplements. A well-known anti-inflammatory, bromelain is frequently prescribed for both osteoarthritis and rheumatic arthritis, and is also known to speeds up the healing process for bruises and wounds. Bromelain is often combined with other herbs and vitamins to create formulas used to treat allergy symptoms and asthma.
(Part of plant used: Stems of Pineapple)
(Used for Arthritis - Ingredient in Joint Ease)

Buchu (Agothosma betulina) is a urinary antiseptic and possesses diuretic properties. Buchu has been used by the natives of the Western Cape of Southern Africa for many centuries. Early Dutch settlers used buchu to make a brandy tincture and Boegoebrandewyn (buchu brandy) is still used today to treat many disorders.
(Used for High Blood Pressure) (Ingredient in Aqua-Rite)
(Treatment for Immune System) (Ingredient in Immunity Plus)
(Used for Urinary Tract Infections) (

Bulbine frutescence is indigenous to South Africa and is widely used by traditional healers to treat a wide range of skin complaints. Commonly called Bulbinella, bulbine is effective in preventing skin infection, healing and soothing cuts, rashes, insect bites, burns, cold sores, pimples and other skin problems. Its clear and soothing gel forms an invisible 'seal' over the wound, protecting against bacteria and providing ongoing relief and healing throughout the day. (Used for Acne) (Ingredient in ClearSkin FaceWash)

The Herb Quarterly

Each issue introduces readers to new herbs and fascinating herbal lore; provides tips on hard to grow varieties and medicinals.