Search the Herbal Therapeutics Database

Articles on Herbs & Health

The collection of herb articles below were written by Christopher Hobbs. Some of the articles have been previously published and others have been written exclusively for the website.

Science & Herb Articles

Stay in touch

Sign up for my newsletter and I'll send you a free ebook on the health benefits of Kombucha!

Special Events

Follow on Instagram

christopherhobbs1

christopherhobbs1

191

Sep 9

One of my all-time favorite herbs.
It’s wonderful to have as an oil in your medicine chest and in your backpack. Apply externally for spray strains other trauma that doesn’t involve blood or broken skin.
Arnica has traditionally been used for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, primarily in herbal medicine. It has been applied topically to treat bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness,
as well as to promote healing after injuries. Additionally, arnica is often used in homeopathic remedies to alleviate pain and reduce swelling. However, it is important to note that arnica should not be ingested in its raw form due to its toxic components.

When it comes to harvesting, only take one or two flowers from each plant or at least a small number from a large number on the plant and never dig up the whole plant. Patches we have harvested for years are still going strong in fact have multiplied.

Apr 23

Here’s a summary of the chemistry, pharmacology, and historical uses of plants in the genus Aristolochia, including information on Aristolochia californica:

Chemistry

Plants in the genus Aristolochia are best known for the presence of aristolochic acids (AAs). These are nitrophenanthrene carboxylic acids that have been linked to severe health consequences.
Other chemical constituents vary across Aristolochia species and might include alkaloids, terpenes, and flavonoids.
Pharmacology

Toxicity: The primary pharmacological concern for Aristolochia is the potent nephrotoxicity (kidney damage) and carcinogenicity (cancer-causing potential) of aristolochic acids. Exposure to AAs can lead to a condition called Aristolochic Acid Nephropathy (AAN) and urothelial cancers.
Traditional Uses: Despite the risks, some *Aristolochia *species have been used in traditional medicine systems worldwide for various purposes:
Wound healing
Snakebite treatment
Pain relief
Anti-inflammatory effects
Stimulation of childbirth
Important Note: Due to the severe health risks associated with aristolochic acids, the medicinal use of Aristolochia is strongly discouraged.

Aristolochia californica (California Pipevine)

A. californica also contains aristolochic acids, making it potentially toxic.
It was traditionally used by some Native American tribes for medicinal purposes.
Its most notable ecological role is serving as the primary host plant for the beautiful Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly.

www.christopherhobbs.com

Mar 25

See the full post here

https://open.substack.com/pub/drchristopherhobbsphd?r=17frbi&utm_medium=ios

Mar 19

Plantain: A Historical and Medicinal Herb

Plantain, likely referring to Plantago lanceolata or P major has a long history of medicinal use around the world.

History:
Used for centuries in Europe, Asia, and Africa for various ailments.
Traditional uses include wound healing, coughs, and digestive issues.

Chemistry:
Contains various bioactive compounds like iridoid glycosides (including aucubin), phenolics, and polysaccharides.
These compounds are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties.

Pharmacology:
Studies suggest potential anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and wound healing properties.
May also have antioxidant and digestive benefits.
**Medical Uses (Disclaimer: Not a substitute for professional medical advice):

Traditionally used for wound healing, coughs, diarrhea, and insect bites.
Modern research is ongoing to validate these traditional uses and explore its potential for other conditions.

Sign up for my newsletter and notices of upcoming classes in events .
www.christopherhobbs.com

Follow on Instagram