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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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Cancer
  • Caution

    Europe · Herb · № 88

    Self-heal

    Prunella vulgaris

    In Europe an old wound herb and gargle for sore throats; in Chinese medicine used for 'heat' and swollen glands. Research is mostly laboratory work.

    Western herbal medicine+2
  • Caution

    Europe · Other · № 382

    Kelp

    Laminaria spp. / Ascophyllum nodosum

    Brown seaweeds are rich in iodine and alginate. They are used in scrubs and as food supplements; too much iodine can disrupt the thyroid.

    Chinese medical traditions
  • Caution

    Central America and the Caribbean · Herb · № 456

    Sickle senna

    Cassia tora

    Traditionally attributed effects: mildly laxative, cleansing; intestinal complaints and fever when teething, compress for gout, sciatica and joint pain; seeds for ringworm, scabies and eczema; root for snake bites.

    Ayurveda+1
  • Caution

    Asia · Herb · № 773

    Gambir hook vine (gou teng)

    Uncaria rhynchophylla

    Traditionally attributed effects: calms liver wind and rising liver yang in headache, dizziness and high blood pressure.

    Chinese medical traditions+1
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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Traditions, kitchen and classical formulas