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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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3 results

  • Caution

    Europe · Herb · № 71

    Meadowsweet

    Filipendula ulmaria

    Contains salicylates. Traditionally used for heartburn, an irritated stomach and joint pain. Clinical research is scarce.

    Western herbal medicine+2Folklore
  • Caution

    Europe · Other · № 74

    Bladderwrack

    Fucus vesiculosus

    A brown seaweed rich in iodine; formerly used for an underactive thyroid and for weight loss. Weight-loss claims are unproven.

    Western herbal medicine
  • Caution

    Europe · Food · № 73

    Wild strawberry

    Fragaria vesca

    The tannin-rich leaf was traditionally used for mild diarrhoea; the fruit is a treat rich in vitamin C. Medical evidence is lacking.

    Western herbal medicine
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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