Herbal knowledge and the cultures that passed it on

Asia · Food · № 827

Ghee

Clarified butter used in Ayurveda as food and as a carrier for herbs.

Oceania · Herb · № 174

Gumbi gumbi

Pittosporum spp.

Leaves, seeds or wood were steeped in hot water and drunk or used externally, for example for colds, coughs, eczema and cramps. Laboratory research points to antimicrobial compounds; clinical studies are lacking.

Oceania · Food · № 53

Kakadu plum (gubinge)

Terminalia ferdinandiana

A bush food with exceptionally high vitamin C, measured at 2,300–3,150 mg per 100 grams.

Europe · Herb · № 85

Lemon balm

Melissa officinalis

Traditionally used for restlessness, sleep problems and a nervous stomach; externally for cold sores. Small studies suggest a mild calming effect, but evidence is limited.

Europe · Food · № 245

Grape

Vitis vinifera

Traditionally attributed effects: soothing, laxative, cooling, stomachic, diuretic; for bilious indigestion, bleeding, painful urination, chronic bronchitis, heart disease, gout; juice for constipation in children.

Europe · Food · № 196

Hazel

Corylus avellana

The nuts are nourishing and rich in unsaturated fats and vitamin E. Hazelnut oil is a light oil for the skin; a medicinal effect has not been shown.

Europe · Herb · № 44

Lavender

Lavandula angustifolia

A fragrant plant used in bath products, perfume, and aromatherapy. Evidence for medical effects is preliminary.

North America · Other · № 388

Meadowfoam

Limnanthes alba

Traditionally attributed effects: nourishing carrier oil.

Africa · Herb · № 201

Rose geranium

Pelargonium graveolens

Traditionally attributed effects: antidepressant, pain-relieving, diuretic, calming, tonic.

Europe · Herb · № 45

Sage

Salvia officinalis

A culinary herb. A few small studies suggest possible effects on memory and blood lipids, but evidence is limited.