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Herbs & Cultures

From Ayurveda to Rongoā Māori

Herbal knowledge and the cultures that passed it on

Communities around the world learned how plants nourish, care and heal. Here their traditions stand beside present-day use, with respect for every culture.

All 980 herbs from 43 traditions

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6 results

  • Caution

    Central America and the Caribbean · Herb · № 347

    Mexican marigold

    Tagetes erecta

    Traditionally attributed effects: curbs sebum in oily skin, calms and prevents dehydration in dry skin, hydrates and keeps wrinkles at bay in combination skin; spiritual symbol of inner fire.

    Curanderismo+1
  • Caution

    North America · Herb · № 932

    American basswood

    Tilia americana

    A large broadleaf tree with heart-shaped leaves and fragrant flowers, related to the European lime. The flowers contain mucilage and flavonoids. The wood is soft and easy to carve; the inner bark gives strong fibre.

    Haudenosaunee medicine+1
  • Caution

    Asia · Herb · № 659

    Dahurian angelica (bai zhi)

    Angelica dahurica

    Traditionally attributed effects: expels wind-cold, opens the nose and relieves headache and toothache; helps drain pus.

    Chinese medical traditions+2
  • Caution

    Asia · Food · № 361

    Chickpea

    Cicer arietinum

    Traditionally attributed effects: binder and cleanser in face masks and scrubs.

    Ayurveda+1
  • Caution

    Central America and the Caribbean · Food · № 266

    Maize

    Zea mays

    Traditionally attributed effects: diuretic, heals the urinary tract lining, tonic, soothing.

    Maya healing knowledge+7Folklore
  • Caution

    North America · Herb · № 209

    Sunflower

    Helianthus annuus

    Sunflower seeds and oil are rich in vitamin E and linoleic acid. The oil is used for dry skin; claims about scars or skin ageing have not been shown.

    Indigenous healing traditions of North America+3Folklore
Image of Salvia divinorum

Featured · Central America and the Caribbean · Curanderismo

Salvia divinorum

Salvia divinorum

A sage with large leaves containing salvinorin A, a very potent substance acting on the kappa opioid receptor. Brings short-lived, often intense changes in perception and the feeling of leaving the body.

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