23 January, 2009

Dictionary

List of unfamiliar terms and their meanings

Antibiotic-Destroys or inhibit microorganisms

Anticoagulant-Prevents blood clotting

Anti fungal-Combats fungal infection

Anti inflammatory-Reduces inflammation

Antimicrobial- Destroys or inhibits microorganisms

Antioxidant- Prevents oxidation and breakdown of tissue

Antiseptic-Destroys or inhibits microorganisms that cause infection

Antiplasmodic- Relieves muscle spasm or reduces muscle tone

Antitussive- Soothes and relieves coughing

Carcinogenic-Causes cancer

Cream- A mixture of water and fat or oil that blends with the skin

Decoction- Water based preparation of bark, roots, berries or seeds simmered in
boiling water

Detoxicfication- The process of aiding removal of toxins and waste products from the

body

Diaphoretic-Induces sweating

Diuretic- Stimulates urine flow

Hyponotic-Induces sleep

Hypoglycaemic- Lowers blood glucose level

Infusion- Water based preparation in which flowers, leaves, or stems are brewed in a

similiar way to tea

Laxative-Promotes evacuation of the bowels

Ointment- A blend of fats or oils that form a protective layer over the skin

Pectoral-Acts on the lungs

Poultice- Herbal preparation usually applied hot to affected area to alleviate pain and
reduce swelling

Purgative-A very strong laxative

Sedative- Reduces activity and nervous excitement

Spasmolytic- Relaxes muscles

Stimulant- Increases rate of activity and nervous excitement

Source: Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.





No comments:

Post a Comment

Followers

Labels