Acids: This is a vast group of constituents, which are often overlooked despite their being found in every plant studied thus far. Their action depends upon the type of acid present. For example, linoleic acid, one of the essential fatty acids, is a powerful antioxidant that also assists the body in regulating blood sugar and cholesterol.

Nettles (Urtica dioica)

Alkaloids: These are powerful constituents, which have very specific actions upon the body. They may be recognized by the suffix “-ine” (i.e.: berberine, quinine and caffeine).  Most commonly their effect is upon the nervous system. Due to their potency, the body must exert a great deal of metabolic energy to process them. However, in most cases the potential for toxicity is remote as the other constituents present act as buffering agents.

Goldenseal (Hydrastis Canadensis)

Anthraquinones: Plants containing anthroquinones have been used throughout history as purgatives and also as dyes. They irritate the walls of the intestine, thereby increasing peristaltic action. This effect is dependant upon the flora and bile present within the digestive tract. The continued use of herbs containing anthroquinones may result in dependency and for this reason it is suggested that one only take them for short periods of time.

Senna (Cassia angustifolia)

Bitter Principles: The basis of the action of bitter constituents comes from their ability to stimulate the bitter receptors in the mouth. Due to this, one must taste the herbs in order for them to be truly effective. The resulting actions are an increase in appetite, protection of the tissues within the digestive tract, promotion of bile flow and enhanced function of the pancreas.

Gentian (Gentiana lutea)

Carbohydrates: Commonly known as a basic element of nutrition, certain carbohydrates also elicit definite responses within the body. An example of this is the group of carbohydrates known as polysaccharides, which have the ability to stimulate the immune system. Another example would be pectin, which exhibits a healing action in the digestive tract and lowers serum cholesterol.

Maitake Mushroom (Grifola fondosa)

Coumarines: This is an ubiquitous group of constituents, although coumarine itself is most often found in members of the Leguminoseae (Pea) family. Coumarines act as anticoagulants. In addition to this anti-clotting mechanism, some antibacterial and antifungal properties have been found. Plants containing coumarines often exude a scent reminiscent of vanilla.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)

Flavones: Also known as bioflavonoids or flavonoids (i.e.: rutin, hesperidin and citrin), these constituents possess a wide variety of actions. They are perhaps best known as potent antioxidants, however, they also act as diuretics, antispasmodics and anti-inflammatories. They have a pronounced beneficial effect upon the circulatory system where they served to increase the integrity of the vessels.

Hawthorn (Crataegus oxycantha)

Mucilage: The primary action the mucilaginous plants is that of demulcent/emollient. They have been utilized throughout history to soothe and heal irritated and inflamed tissues. Mucilage is technically a complex carbohydrate and its presence is easily noted as it develops a thick, viscous texture when exposed to water.

Marshmallow (Althea officinalis)

Saponins: Recent research has found a wide array of beneficial actions within this group including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, hepatoprotective, immunostimulant and cytotoxic actions. Many plants containing saponins are also known to have a direct effect upon the central nervous system by reducing stress and acting as rejuvenatives/adaptogens. There are two main classifications for this group of constituents: steroidal and triterpenoid. Steroidal saponins are known to have a balancing effect upon the hormones.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Tannins: The primary effect of tannins is to tighten and tone tissue, thereby acting as an astringent. All plants contain these constituents to some degree, however, those possessing larger quantities have been effectively used to treat such conditions as diarrhea and conjunctivitis. The notable bitter taste of black tea is a sign of the presence of tannins.

Eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)

Volatile Oils: This group of constituents is responsible for the strong scent found in many plants, for example, the menthol in some mints. True essential oils are made by extracting the volatile oils. The effects of volatile oils are dependent upon which plant they are derived from. In general their effect is far more potent than that of the plant taken as a whole. They dissipate quickly, thus the reason for covering infusions while they are steeping.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)