Herb Library

Vitex agnus-castus

See Chasteberry entry for full details. Cross-referenced for searchability.

Vitex agnus-castus (tincture)

Vitex berry tincture — many herbalists prefer this over capsules. 60-90 drops each morning on empty stomach. Takes 3-6 months for full cycle-regulating effect.

Vitex trifolia

Pan-tropical and Pacific Island shrub — Filipino DOH-approved phytomedicine (Lagundi) for cough and asthma. Hawaiian use (pohinahina) for headache and body aches. Contains vitexin and casticin. One of the most studied Philippine herbal medicines.

Nasturtium officinale

Nutrient-dense aquatic green — scored #1 on CDC Powerhouse Fruits and Vegetables scale (100/100). Contains PEITC (phenethyl isothiocyanate) — potent anticancer compound. Traditional spring tonic. For respiratory health and detoxification.

Paeonia lactiflora (Bai Shao)

TCM blood-nourishing and liver-softening herb — for menstrual cramps, muscle spasms, night sweats, and irritability. Contains paeoniflorin (anti-spasmodic, anti-inflammatory). Key herb in Xiao Yao San and Si Wu Tang formulas.

Camellia sinensis (white)

The least processed tea — highest in catechins and lowest in caffeine. Delicate sweet flavor. Studied for skin protection, cardiovascular health, and oral health.

Salix alba

The original source of salicin (precursor to aspirin), used traditionally for discomfort, headaches, and joint support.

Salix alba (400mg)

Standard white willow bark capsule — the herbal aspirin alternative. 400mg providing ~60mg salicin. For headaches, back pain, and joint discomfort. Gentler on stomach than aspirin.

Vaccinium angustifolium

Wild lowbush blueberries have 2x the antioxidant content of cultivated varieties. Rich in pterostilbene and anthocyanins for brain, eye, and cardiovascular health.

Hibiscus sabdariffa

Used in Australian Aboriginal and global traditions for hypertension, UTIs, and as a cooling beverage. The calyces are rich in anthocyanins and organic acids.

Gaultheria procumbens

Natural source of methyl salicylate (98% of essential oil) — topical pain reliever. Wintergreen oil in liniments for muscle and joint pain. ESSENTIAL OIL IS TOXIC if ingested (5ml can be lethal to a child). Leaf tea is safe in moderation.

Hamamelis virginiana

A widely used astringent herb, primarily topical, for skin toning, hemorrhoids, and minor skin irritation.

Hamamelis virginiana (distillate)

Distilled witch hazel — the classic natural skin toner. Alcohol-free versions (Thayers) are gentler. Used for acne, oily skin, and as a post-shave tonic.

Vitex + DIM + Black Cohosh + Dong Quai

Comprehensive women's hormonal formula — Vitex for cycle regulation, DIM for estrogen metabolism, Black Cohosh for vasomotor symptoms, Dong Quai for blood nourishment.

Wrightia antidysenterica

Indian and Southeast Asian tree — Ayurvedic 'kutaja' specifically for dysentery and amoebic infections. Bark contains conessine alkaloid with anti-amoebic activity validated in clinical studies. For diarrhea, IBS, and hemorrhoids in Ayurveda.

Pausinystalia yohimbe

African aphrodisiac — yohimbine is an alpha-2 antagonist (increases norepinephrine). Prescription drug for erectile dysfunction. OTC supplements have inconsistent yohimbine content. DANGEROUS side effects possible. Not for casual use.