Cinnamon / Cinnamomum verum

An ancient spice, the inner bark of cinnamon leaves a pleasant and warm taste on the tongue. Its undoubted health benefits are not that well known. Recent research points to an entirely new use for it—cinnamon appears to work with insulin to help stabilize blood sugar levels in the body.

Helonias, False unicorn root

Chamaelirium luteum, Veratrum luteum
Used by Native American women, helonias was made popular in the 19th century by eclectic doctors in the US, trained in herbal and conventional medicine.

Medicinal uses of Dan shen, Asian red sage

Part used Root

Key actions Anticoagulant • Lowers blood pressure • Sedative • Tonic for heart and circulation

Heart tonic Similar in some respects to hawthorn (Crataegus spp.), dan shen increases blood flow through the coronary arteries and has a marked relaxant action on the circulation to the heart, making it a key remedy for angina and a weak or under-performing heart. Dan shen is best taken on the recommendation of an herbal or medical practitioner.

High blood pressure and poor peripheral circulation Dan shen relaxes arterial circulation and thins the blood, both factors that contribute to a lower blood pressure and stronger circulation to the hands and feet.

Other uses The herb has strong anticoagulant activity—seek professional advice if taking blood-thinning medication or where a tendency toward bleeding or bruising exists.

Medicinal uses of Yellow dock

Parts used Root • Leaf (topically)

Key actions Detoxifier • Laxative

Chronic skin problems Yellow dock is best used in combination with other herbs rather than on its own. It fits well in formulas that contain other “blood cleansers” such as burdock (Arctium lappa) to support bowel clearance and liver detoxification. Yellow dock is called for in conditions involving chronic toxicity, including skin disorders such as acne and boils, eczema, and psoriasis. Often the best approach is to take small amounts regularly over several months, promoting gradual but effective detoxification. Other types of chronic illness that involve poor elimination, like swollen glands and throat infection, can also benefit from the root’s cleansing activity.

Other uses Yellow dock combines well with nettle (Urtica dioica) in allergic and rheumatic conditions. Both herbs also contain appreciable levels of iron and can be used as a natural iron supplement in mild cases of anemia.

Sage, Spanish sage / Salvia officinalis, S. lavandulifolia

In 1551, the English herbalist William Turner noted that sage “restores natural heat ... comforts the vital spirits ... helps the memory, and quickens the senses.” Such praise is not misplaced for sage, which is truly a versatile and effective tonic.

Dandelion / Taraxacum officinalis

One of nature’s most versatile remedies, dandelion is both a nutritious salad vegetable and a detoxifying remedy for the liver and kidneys. Loved by herbalists for its gentle cleansing effect, dandelion root finds use in toxic states of all kinds, including chronic skin disorders and recurrent infection.

Yellow dock / Rumex crispus

A common weed and wayside plant, yellow dock has a deep taproot that draws up iron and other minerals from the soil, presenting them in an accessible form for absorption. The root is therefore prescribed in cases of iron-deficiency anemia, although its main use is for sluggish bowels and mild constipation.