In traditional herbalism, plants are often described by their “actions” — the ways they interact with the body and support its natural processes. For example:

• Adaptogen (use thoughtfully) – supports resilience to stress

• Alterative (traditional term) – supports gradual systemic balance (often used for “spring cleansing” herbs)

• Analgesic – eases discomfort or pain

• Anti-inflammatory – calms irritation and swelling Antimicrobial – helps resist unwanted microbes Astringent - tightening, toning

• Carminative – reduces gas, eases digestion

• Circulatory stimulant – improves blood flow

• Cooling - reduces heat and calms irritation (physical warmth, inflammation, redness, or general sense of overstimulation)

• Demulcent - soothing, moistening

• Diaphoretic – encourages sweating

• Digestive Bitter (Bitter) – stimulates digestive processes

• Diuretic – supports fluid movement and urination

• Drawing - helps pull out or bring to the surface (splinters, stings, minor infections, congestion)

• Drying - helps reduce excess moisture or dampness in the body; often used when tissues feel overly wet, boggy, or congested

• Emollient – softens and soothes skin (slightly different from demulcent)

• Expectorant – helps clear mucus from lungs Moistening - adds hydration and softness to dry or depleted tissues

• Nervine – supports the nervous system (can be calming or toning)

• Relaxant – eases tension in body or mind

• Rubefacient – brings warmth to the surface (increases local circulation

• Sedative – promotes rest or sleep

• Stimulating - encourages activity and responsiveness in the body (circulation, digestion,  general alertness)

• Styptic – helps stop bleeding Tonic – general strengthening or nourishing over time

• Vulnerary - supporting skin repair

• Warming - increases circulation, encourages movement, and brings heat into the body