Raspberry (Rubus idaeus )   The leaf is the most valuable medicinal part of the raspberry and a tea is traditionally drunk by expectant mothers during the last three months of pregnancy to strengthen the uterus and to ease painful contractions during labor as well as checking any hemorrhage.  This action will occur if the herb is drunk regularly throughout pregnancy and also taken during labor. Although the specific mode of action is unknown, the leaves are thought to strengthen the longitudinal muscles of the uterus, increasing the force of contractions and thereby hastening childbirth.  The gentle astringency of raspberry leaves is also helpful for diarrhea in children, and an infusion makes a good mouthwash for ulcers and bleeding gums. It is used to treat irregular and excessive menstruation.   Externally, the leaves and roots are used as a gargle to treat tonsillitis and mouth inflammations, as a poultice and wash to treat sores, conjunctivitis, minor wounds, burns and varicose ulcers.  The fruit is antiscorbutic and diuretic. Fresh raspberry juice, mixed with a little honey, makes an excellent refrigerant beverage to be taken in the heat of a fever. Made into a syrup, it is said to have a beneficial effect on the heart.  The fruit is nutritious and mildly astringent.

Rattlesnake Master (Eryngium yuccifolium).....The plant was used as an antidote to snakebites. The roots were chewed and applied to the bite. The roots have been used medicinally for liver ailments, to increase urine flow, to induce vomiting, and to treat rattlesnake bite.  Very useful in dropsy, nephritic and calculus affections, also in scrofula and syphilis.  It is valuable as a diaphoretic and expectorant in pulmonary affections and used when Senega is not available.  There is some effect in treating inflammations and malaria.  The pulverized root is very effective in hemorrhoids and prolapsus.  Chewing the root results in increased saliva flow.   A liquid made from roots mashed in cold water was drunk to relieve muscular pains.  The roots have also been used for rheumatism, respiratory ailments, and kidney trouble.  A decoction of the roots has been found useful in cases of exhaustion from sexual depletion, with loss of erectile power, seminal emissions and orchitis. A tincture of the roots is used in the treatment of female reproductive disorders.       Rattlesnake master is reported to have bitter aromatic constituents.  No research seems to have been done on the effectiveness of rattlesnake master in the treatment on rattlesnake bites, but an extract of Eryngium creticum was found to be effective as an antivenum to the sting of the scorpion Leiurus quinuqestristus.  This Eryngium grows in Jordan, where it is used by people in rural areas for scorpion stings.

Rau Rom (Vietnamese Coriander  Polygonum odoratum)    The roots of the closely related Fo-ti, Polygonum multiflorum, are used in Chinese herbal medicine as a tonic and to stimulate hair growth, where it is often combined with other herbs, such as ginseng (panax sp.).  Used in southeastern Asia against nausea, fever and to promote urination  It is sometimes employed as an anaphrodisiac.  In Cambodia the twigs and leaves are used to stimulate urination and to combat fever and nausea.  In Vietnam the plant is used to treat wound and snake bite.  The dried rhizome has astringent and anti-inflammatory uses.  In Europe, an infusion from the rhizome has been used as a gargle for ulcers and gingevitis, and applied to cuts, sores and hemorrhoids.   

Red Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia sanguinea)  Known extensively throughout South America for its medicinal virtues and ritually brewed with Trichocereous pachanoi as one interpretation of Cimora. ... In Ecuador it is currently being cultivated for scopolamine.

Red China Root (Smilax lanceolata): Chop and boil a small handful of roots in 3 cups of water to use as a pleasant tasting blood tonic and for fatigue, anemia, acidity, toxicity, rheumatism, and skin conditions.  Drink with milk, cinnamon, and nutmeg to strengthen and proliferate red blood cells.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) Traditional Chinese physicians have long used red clover blossoms as an expectorant.  Russian folk healers recommend it for asthma.  Other cultures have used it externally in salves for skin sores and eye problems and internally as a diuretic to treat water retention and as a sedative, anti-inflammatory, cough medicine, and cancer treatment.  America’s 19^th-century Eclectic physicians were great promoters of red clover. Their text, King’s American Dispensatory, called it “one of the few remedies which favorably influences pertussis [whooping cough]… possess[ing] a peculiar soothing property.” The Eclectics recommended red clover for cough, bronchitis, and tuberculosis but waxed truly enthusiastic about the herb as a cancer treatment: “It unquestionably retards the growth of carcinomata.”  During the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries, red clover was the major ingredient in many patent medicines.
            Red clover is used internally for skin complaints, especially eczema and psoriasis.  It may be used with complete safety in cases of childhood eczema, cancers of the breast, ovaries, and lymphatic system, chronic degenerative diseases, gout, whooping cough and dry cough.  Combined with chaparral in background treatment of cancer.  It has been given as part of a holistic treatment for breast tumors and fibroids, both associated with excess estrogen, because the herbal version competes with excess estrogen, allowing the body to come into balance.  The estrogenic effect may be of use in treating menopausal complaints.  Research has shown that the herb has a contraceptive effect in sheep.  Red clover blossoms have been long used in the form of a salve for the removal of external cancer and indolent ulcers.  A tea is also helpful to bathe the affected part, making it fresh daily.  It reduces the desire to smoke if chewed.  

Red Dead Nettle (Lamium purpureum): The leaves, when bruised and used as a poultice, are said to staunch blood flowing from a deep cut.  The dried herb, made into a tea and sweetened with honey, promotes perspiration and acts on the kidneys, being useful in cases of chill.

Red Hogweed (Boerhavia diffusa)  It has a long tradition in Ayurvedic medical practice.  Caraka used it to make a decoction for dissolving kidney stones.  The Ayurvedic surgeon Susruta mentions its use in snake-poisoning and rat-bite infections. Another great Ayurvedic physician, Chakradatta, used it to treat chronic alcoholics, while medieval physicians traditionally prescribed it for fevers in patients suffering from urethritis, as well as for asthma and jaundice.  It is now believed that Ayurvedic physicians defined a single tar vine plant with different colored flowers as three separate plants possessing similar medicinal properties.  However, Ayurvedic texts do identify the medicinal specialties of each, and the white-flowered variety is thought to be the most effective.  Today, Ayurvedic doctors primarily prescribe drugs made from the white-flowering hogweed to dissolve kidney stones and induce urination.
           It was found to stop intra-uterine-contraceptive-device (IUCD)-induced bleeding. This herb is also known for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which are comparable to that of ibuprofen. It has also proved useful as a hematinic.
                Punarnava's diuretic activity acts quickly for kidney infections, and urinary tract infection. It quickly increases urine flow and the alkaloidal effects work to help detoxify these systems of infection, and speed up the excretory processes.  The roots are used in the treatment of asthma, edema, anemia, jaundice, ascites, anasarca, scanty urine and internal inflammation. They are also said to be an antidote to snake poisoning. An alkaloid in the roots has been shown experimentally to produce a distinct and persistent rise in blood pressure plus marked diuresis.
              Named as punarnava in samskrit, Boerhavia diffusa is believed to be a great rejuvenator. The drug punarnava is also sourced by some Ayurvedists from a different species, Trianthema portulacastrum (Aizoaceae). Shvethapunarnava (white punarnava) is the preferred plant, but the flowers of both Boerhavia diffusa and Boerhavia repens are deep pink, while those of Trianthema portulacasstrum are white. Sometimes it is reported that Boerhavia punarnava is the name given to the white flowered variety of Boerhavia diffusa.  In western Africa, Boerhavia diffusa is used to treat convulsions, as laxative and a febrifuge. The leaves and roots are expectorant and emetic in large doses. Also used to treat asthma. Boiled roots are used as poultice on abscesses and to extract guinea worms.
            Punarnavine, boerhavic acid, reducing sugars, potassium nitrate and tannins including phlobaphens were extracted from the plant. Punarnavine raises blood pressure and produces diuresis. Particularly useful in cirrhosis of the liver and chronic peritonitis and as an anti-inflammatory. The roots have an anticonvulsant principle.

Red Mangrove (Rhizophora mangle): The red bark of the South American mangrove tree has been used for many years by the natives as a febrifuge but more recently it has been claimed that it is a specific in leprosy. They administer a beginning dose of one fluidrachm (3.75 mils) of the fluidextract twice a day which is gradually increased until the patient is taking a fluidounce and a half (45 mils) daily.                     
           Red mangrove is a folk remedy for angina, asthma, backache, boils, ciguatera, convulsions, diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, elephantiasis, enuresis, epistaxis, eye ailments, fever, filariasis, hemoptysis, hemorrhage, inflammation, jaundice, leprosy, lesions, leucorrhea, malignancies, scrofula, short wind, sores, sorethroat, syphilis, tuberculosis, uterorrhagia, and wounds. One Cali doctor reported a cure of throat cancer, with gargles of mangrove bark The bark of the tree is boiled (1 handful of chopped bark in 1 gallon of water for 10 minutes) and used as a hot bath for very stubborn or serious sores, skin conditions, leprosy and swellings.

Red Maple (Acer rubrum )  The bark was used by Native Americans  to make a decoction for treating eye ailments, because of its astringency.  The bark has been used as a treatment for worms, as a tonic, and in poultices for skin abrasions.  An infusion of the bark has been used to treat cramps and dysentery. 

Red Sage (Salvia viridis (syn Salvia horminum) )  Red Sage is the classic remedy for inflammations of the mouth, gums, tongue, throat and tonsils, its volatile oils soothing the mucous membranes.  It may be used internally and as a mouthwash, and as a gargle it will help laryngitis, pharyngitis, tonsillitis and quinsy. It is a valuable carminative used in dyspepsia.  It reduces sweating when taken internally and may be used to reduce the production of breast milk.  As a compress it promotes the healing of wounds.  Red Sage stimulates the muscles of the uterus.

Red Sage (Salvia miltiorrhiza)  There has been extensive research into dan shen in China, and the tanshinones have been shown to have a profound effect on the coronary circulation, reducing the symptoms of angina and improving heart function.  The whole herb (rather than isolated constituents) has been used in China to assist patients who are recovering from a heart attack, and it appears to support heart function at this critical time.  Clinical trials in China, however, have shown that dan shen is most effective when taken as a preventive, rather than as a a remedy after the heart attack has taken place.  Dan shen is known to inhibit the action of tubercle bacillus.
            Dan shen has been esteemed by the Chinese for thousands of years as a circulatory stimulant.  Life hawthorn, it is a safe effective remedy for many circulatory problems.  It particularly benefits the coronary circulation, opening up the arteries and improving blood flow to the heart, and is therefore helpful in treating coronary heart disease.  Although it does not lower blood pressure, dan shen relaxes the blood vessels and improves circulation throughout the body.  Dan shen is used traditionally to treat conditions caused by blood stagnation, primarily those affecting the lower abdomen, such as absent or painful menstrual periods and fibroids.  The sedative action of dan shen helps calm the nerves, and it is therefore helpful in treating angina, a condition made worse by anxiety and worry.  Palpitations, insomnia and irritability also benefit from dan shen’s sedative properties.  Dan shen is a soothing remedy that is used to remove “excess heat,” particularly in the heart and liver.  It can also alleviate inflammatory skin problems, such as abscesses, boils, and sores.              Research: In one series of 323 patients given a preparation of dan shen for 1-9 months, there was marked clinical improvement in 20.3% and improvement in 62% of the cases.  Results were best in cases of coronary artery disease without a history of myocardial infarction.  In another clinical series of more than 300 patients with angina pectoris, a combination of dan shen and jiang xiang, given either intramuscularly or intravenously, improved the symptoms in approximately 82% and the ECGs in 50% of the cases.
            Tinctures of dan shen were the principal treatment in 34 cases of thromboangiitis obliterans.  Of these, 15 were clinically cured and nine showed significant improvement.  There was a low incidence of pruritus, stomach pain, and reduced appetite.
            In clinical studies, injections of dan shen have lowered the serum cholesterol levels in some patients.  Preparations of dan shen had a significant sedative effect on white mice and prolonged the hypnotic effect of barbiturates.  Injection of decoctions of dan shen at doses of 0.5g/kg had a hypoglycemic effect lasting as long as five hours.

Redbud  (Cercis canadensis, C. siliquastrum)  The redbud’ inner bark and root can be made into a tea or decoction. This was used by different Native American Indian tribes to clear lung congestion, for whooping cough, to prevent nausea and vomiting, and to break fevers.  It has also been used for diarrhea, dysentery, and leukemia.   

Redroot Pigweed (Amaranthus retroflexus )  The leaves have been used to stop internal hemorrhaging, diarrhea, and excessive menstrual flow. An infusion has been used to treat hoarseness.  The stems have treated ulcers and profuse menstrual flows.  In a wash, the flowers, leaves, and roots have been used as an astringent for wounds and sores, and used as a mouthwash for canker sores and sore gums.

Reedmace (Typha latifolia): Native Americans from most tribes living near wetland areas have found interesting medicinal uses for cattails. Some tribes used the fuzz as a remedy for burns or to create a powder that prevented chafing. Others crushed the rhizomes and used them as topical treatment for sores and inflammation. The Delaware used the root as a cure for kidney stones, and the Houma Indians steeped the flowering stem as a treatment for whooping cough.  The leaves are diuretic. The leaves have been mixed with oil and used as a poultice on sores.
         The pollen is astringent, diuretic, emmenagogue, haemostatic, refrigerant, sedative, suppurative and vulnerary. The dried pollen is said to be anticoagulant, but when roasted with charcoal it becomes haemostatic. It is used internally in the treatment of kidney stones, hemorrhage, painful menstruation, abnormal uterine bleeding, post-partum pains, abscesses and cancer of the lymphatic system. It should not be prescribed for pregnant women. Externally, it is used in the treatment of tapeworms, diarrhea and injuries. A decoction of the stems has been used in the treatment of whooping cough. The roots are diuretic, galactogogue, refrigerant and tonic. The roots are pounded into a jelly-like consistency and applied as a poultice to wounds, cuts, boils, sores, carbuncles, inflammations, burns and scalds. The flowers are used in the treatment of a wide range of ailments including abdominal pain, amenorrhea, cystitis, dysuria, metrorrhagia and vaginitis. The young flower heads are eaten as a treatment for diarrhea.

Rest Harrow (Ononis spinosa )  For excess fluid retention, restharrow is best taken as a short-term treatment, in the form of an infusion.  The root contains a fixed oil that is anti-diuretic and an essential oil that is diuretic. If the diuretic action is required then the root should be infused and not decocted or the essential oil will be evaporated. It is also of value in treating gout and cystitis.  An infusion is used in the treatment of dropsy, inflammation of the bladder and kidneys, rheumatism and chronic skin disorders.  A cough mixture is made from

Resurrection Plant (Bryophyllum pinnatum)  Pounded fresh material is applied as a poultice for a variety of conditions: Sprains, eczema, infections, burns; carbuncle and erysipelas. Usually not taken internally. For boils, the whole leaf is pressed by hand, to and fro, until it becomes moist with the leaf extract. A small opening is made in the middle of the leaf which is then placed on the boil with hole over the pointing of the abscess

Rhatany (Krameria triandra)   Rhatany is a powerful astringent that was retained in the official pharmacopea until recently.  It may be used wherever an astringent is indicated, that is, in diarrhea, hemorrhoids, hemorrhages or as a styptic.  Rhatany is often found in herbal toothpastes and powders as it is especially good for bleeding gums. It can be used as a snuff with bloodroot to treat nasal polyps.  The plant’s astringency makes it effective when used in the form of an ointment, suppository, or wash for treating hemorrhoids.  Rhatany may also be applied to wounds to help staunch blood flow, to varicose veins, and over areas of capillary fragility that may be prone to easy bruising.   Gargle the tea or diluted tincture for acute or lingering sore throat.  It can be combined for this purpose with Yerba Mansa or Echinacea.  For diarrhea, combine with Silk Tassel (for cramps) and Echinacea (immunostimulant), and with either Trumpet Creeper, Desert Willow or Tonadora (for Candida) and Chaparro Amargosa (Protozoas).  For a hemorrhoidal salve and rectal fissure ointment, use either alone or with Echinacea flowers as a salve. 

Rhubarb Root  (Rheum palmatum)  For centuries the rhizome of the Turkey rhubarb was highly regarded by the Chinese for its medicinal properties.  Modern research has justified its reputation.  It contains anthraquinones, which have a purgative effect, and tannins and bitters which have the opposite effect.  If taken in small quantities the tonic, aperient effect predominates and it is therefore useful in cases of appetite loss and acute diarrhea.  Used to treat constipation, dysentery, hemorrhoids, portal congestion, pin/thread worms, skin eruptions from faulty elimination, blood in the stool and duodenal ulcers.  It has a truly cleansing action upon the gut, removing debris, and then astringing with antiseptic properties as well. It is used externally to promote healing, counteract blood clots and promote menstruation.  Stronger doses are laxative after 8-10 hours and are used to treat chronic constipation.  Rhubarb is included in some proprietary preparations and is also a component of herbal tea mixtures and digestive powders.  In 1987 a research team investigated extracts of 178 Chinese herbs for antibacterial activity against one of the major microorganisms in human intestinal flora.  Only Rhubarb was found to have significant activity.  The herb can be applied to burns, boils, and carbuncles.  It is a useful mouthwash for canker sores.  

Rice Paddy Herb (Limnophila aromatica)  In Asia, rau om is employed to treat many ailments.  In China, it is used for the treatment of intoxication and pain; in Indochina, to treat wounds; in Malaysia, chiefly as a poultice on sore legs, but also to promote appetite, and as an expectorant to clear mucus from the respiratory tract, and to treat fever; and in Indonesia, as an antiseptic or cleanser for worms.  The plant is also used in Asia for menstrual problems, wounds, dysentery, fever, elephantiasis, and indigestion. 

River Beauty (Epilobium latifolium): The entire plant is used in Tibetan medicine, it is said to have a bitter taste and a cooling potency. It is used in the treatment of fevers and inflammations, plus also itching pimples.

Rocambole (Allium scorodoprasum )  The bulb is used in the treatment of abscesses, amoebic dysentery, bronchitis, cholera, dysentery, influenza, skin diseases and TB.  

Rock Sweet Flag (Acorus gramineus )  An important herb in Chinese medicine for poor appetite, gastritis, excess mucus, and depression. Considered to be a warming herb and therefore not given to patients with a tendency to perspire excessively.  Stimulates the digestive system, clears the bronchial passages, relieves indigestion, and has mild sedative effects.  The root is powdered and applied to bleeding gums. It is also used internally in the treatment of depression and epilepsy.

Rocket (Hesperis matronalis )  The leaves are antiscorbutic, diaphoretic and diuretic

Roman Cassie (Acacia caven): Its bark is rich in tannin, used as a tea, recommended for bruises, wounds and ulcers.

Roman Wormwood (Artemisia pontica)   a medicinal plant against colds and as a bitter stomachic.  A decoction of the leaves and flowers is used for colds, as a tonic and as an anthelmintic; the leafy top is a bitter stomachic and induces perspiration. It is milder in its properties than common wormwood.

Rooibos (Aspalathus linearis)  A tea made from the dried fermented leaves tastes similar to oriental tea made from Camellia sinensis. It is less astringent, however, due to the lower tannin content. It is caffeine-free, but has a higher content of fluoride which might help to protect against tooth decay. Internally used for allergies, especially eczema, hay fever, and asthma in infants.  Externally used for skin infections and irritations.  Japanese research in the 1980s showed that rooibos contains a substance similar to the enzyme superoxide dismutase, an antioxidant compound thought to retard aging. Recent studies have reported rooibos tea as having antimutagenic and anti-HIV activity. The antimutagenic and antioxidant properties of Rooibos are far greater for unfermented shoot and leaf teas.

Rose, Cotton (Hibiscus mutabilis):   While the roots and leaves of this deciduous bush have medicinal uses, it is the flowers that are used most commonly.  Acrid in flavor and neutral in nature, if used internally, it can remove heat from the blood, reduce swelling and detoxify. If pounded and applied externally, it relieves inflammation and reduces swelling.  The flower’s nutritional properties are purported to be good for menopausal women. It balances hormones, and purifies your blood. The roots and leaves, ground into paste, is good for treating diabetics with leg problems.  The abundant mucilage contained in the tissues makes the plant an effective emollient for burns.  Leaves and  flowers kill pain; expel phlegm; treat excessive bleeding during menstruation, painful urination, inflammation and snake bites. A decoction of the flowers is used in the treatment of lung ailments.

Rose Moss (Rhodobryum ontariense): Used for treatment of cardiovascular diseases and nervous prostration in TCM; cures angina.  Ether extract actually did increase the rate of flow in aorta of white mice by over 30%, causing reduction in amount of oxygen resistance.

Roselle (Hibiscus sabdariffa)   The leaves and flowers are used internally as a tonic tea for digestive and kidney functions.  Experimentally, an infusion decreases the viscosity of the blood, reduces blood pressure and stimulates intestinal peristalsis. The drink made by placing, the calyx in water, is said to be a folk remedy for cancer. Medicinally, leaves are emollient, and are much used in Guinea as a diuretic, refrigerant, and sedative; fruits are antiscorbutic; leaves, seeds, and ripe calyces are diuretic and antiscorbutic; and the succulent calyx, boiled in water, is used as a drink in bilious attacks. In Burma, the seed are used for debility, the leaves as emollient. Taiwanese regard the seed as diuretic, laxative, and tonic. Philippines use the bitter root as an aperitive and tonic. Angolans use the mucilaginous leaves as an emollient and as a soothing cough remedy. Central Africans poultice the leaves on abscesses. Alcoholics might consider one item: simulated ingestion of the plant extract decreased the rate of absorption of alcohol, lessening the intensity of alcohol effects in chickens.

Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)  Studies show rosemary leaves increase circulation, reduce headaches and fight bacterial and fungal infections.  It is considered one of the strongest natural antioxidents.    The flavonoid diosmin strengthens fragile blood vessels, possibly even more effectively than rutin.  German pharmacies sell rosemary ointment to rub on nerve and rheumatic pains and for heart problems.  A traditional European treatment for those suffering from poor circulation due to illness or lack of exercise is to drink rosemary extracted into white wine.   
            Rosemary contains many compounds that are reported to prevent the breakdown of acetylcholine in the brain, usually a symptom of Alzheimer’s disease.  Several if not all can be absorbed through the skin, and some probably cross the blood-brain barrier so using a using a final rinse of vinegar with rosemary essential oil added may be beneficial in prevention.   Of these antioxidants, at least four are known cataract fighters and Japanese researchers find it promising for removing wrinkles. 
               Rosemary is recommended for flatulence, heartburn and as a digestive.  It improves food absorption by stimulating digestion and the liver, intestinal tract and gallbladder.  It is also used to inhibit kidney- and bladder-stone formation. Studies on rosemary conducted in Paraguay show that it almost completely inhibits the enzyme urease which contributes to kidney stone formation.  It makes an antiseptic gargle for sore throats, gum problems and canker sores. Researchers speculate that rosemarinic acid might even be a good treatment for septic shock.  In addition, it inhibited, although didn't destroy, 87% of the cancer cells tested in a laboratory study.  Asthma sufferers used to smoke it with coltsfoot and eat bread that had been baked over rosemary wood. 
            Research has shown that rosmaricine is a stimulant and mild analgesic.  The oil content varies within the plant.  It is analgesic and stimulant, especially when applied to the skin.  Rosemary's anti-inflammatory effect is due mainly to rosmarinic acid and flavonoids.   
            As a warming herb, it stimulates circulation of blood to the head, improving concentration and memory.  It also eases headaches and migraine, and encourages hair growth by improving blood flow to the scalp.  It has been used to treat epilepsy and vertigo.  It aids recovery from long-term stress and chronic illness.  It is thought to stimulate the adrenal glands and is used specifically for debility, especially when accompanied by poor circulation and digestion. 

Roseroot (Rhodiola rosea)  Chinese medical practitioners describe adaptogens as "superior" plants that profoundly benefit the human body without dangerous side effects. While the most famous adaptogen is ginseng, cutting-edge research by top Russian doctors and scientists has shown that Arctic Root can ease more conditions, including stress, depression, heart disease and cancer                                                    .           Rhodiola rosea has been shown to shorten recovery time after prolonged workouts, to increase attention span, memory, strength, and anti-toxic action. Rhodiola rosea extract increases the level of enzymes, RNA, and proteins important to muscle recovery after exhaustive exercise.  It has also been shown to increase the levels of beta-endorphin in blood plasma which helps prevent the hormonal changes indicative of stress.  This effect has also been linked to maintaining an increased cardiac output and subsequently having a cardioprotective effect.  Studies using proofreading tests have demonstrated that Rhodiola rosea enhances memorization and concentration ability over prolonged periods.  Finally, Rhodiola has been shown to increase anti-tumor activity by increasing the body’s resistance to toxins.
                  In Siberia it is said that "those who drink rhodiola tea regularly will live more than 100 years." Chinese emperors always looking for the secret to long life and immortality sent expeditions into Siberia to collect and bring back the plant. Being one of the most popular medicinal herbs of middle Asia, for many years Rhodiola was illegally trafficked across the Russian border to China  In Siberia it was taken regularly especially during the cold and wet winters to prevent sickness. In Mongolia it was used for the treatment of tuberculosis and cancer.      Formerly regarded as a scarce plant, researchers from Tomsk State University found significant stands of this valuable herb growing wild in Sibera at elevations of 5000 to 9000 feet above sea level.  Subsequent research has substantiated high live giving biological activity with no toxicity.    For the treatment of depression extracts of rhodiola, namely rosavin and salidroside, in animal studies seem to enhance the transport of serotonin precursors, tryptophan, and 5-hydroxytryptophan into the brain. Serotonin is a widely studied brain neurotransmitter chemical that is involved in many functions including, smooth muscle contraction, temperature regulation, appetite, pain perception, behavior, blood pressure and respiration.  When balanced, it imparts a a sense of contentment and mental ease. Either too much or too little serotonin on the other hand has been linked to various abnormal mental states such as clinical depression. Thus rhodiola has been used by Russian scientists alone or in combination with antidepressants to boost one's mental state, a boon in countries and seasons where one is deprived of adequate sun over prolonged periods of months. This leads to a condition known as SAD or Seasonal Affective Disorder common to Northern European countries.
          Rhodiola has also been shown to be effective for cardiac problems caused or aggravated by stress. Its action for these conditions is in its ability to decrease the amount of catecholamines and corticosteroids released by the adrenal glands during stress. The abnormal presence of these stress hormones will subsequently raise blood pressure, cholesterol, potassium levels and increase risk factors for heart disease. Rhodiola has been found to decrease harmful blood lipids and thus decrease the risk of heart disease. It also decreases the amount of cyclic-AMP (c-AMP) released into cardiac cells. Cyclic AMP is related to ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the body's primary energy molecule. C-AMP acts as a 'second messenger' or liaison between the outer and inner environments of the cell. It assists in the uptake of more intracellular calcium into the heart thus promoting a greater potential for heart muscle contraction. Rhodiola thus regulates the heart beat and counteracts heart arrhythmias    As an adaptogen, rhodiola both stimulates and protects the immune system by reinstating homeostasis (metabolic balance) in the body. It also increases natural killer cell (NK) in the stomach and spleen. This action may be due to its ability to normalize hormones by modulating the release of glucocorticoid into the body.
             Rhodiola has potent antioxidant properties. By limiting the adverse effects of free radical damage, it is able to combat all the diseases associated with aging. The presence of free radicals is associated with cell mutagenicity, the immediate cause of cancer. Again, Russian researchers have found that the oral administration of rhodiola inhibited tumor growth in rats 39 percent and decreased metastasis by 50 percent. It improved urinary tissue and immunity in patients suffering with bladder cancer. In other experiments with various types of cancer, including adenocarcinoma (cancer of glandular tissue such as breast cancer) and lung carcinoma, the use of extracts of rhodiola rosea resulted in significant increased survival rate                 Like Siberian ginseng, rhodiola is routinely used by athletes to improve performance. While the mechanism is not completely understood, rhodiola seems to improve the ratio of muscle-fat and increases hemoglobin and erythrocytes levels in the blood.
             Many other benefits from the use of Rhodiola has been found including its ability to improve hearing, when applied to the gums to inhibit the progression of pyorrhea, to regulate blood sugar levels for diabetics and protect the liver from environmental toxin.
          Nearly 200 different rhodiola species have been identified. Only 14 have been subjected to biochemical study and it has been found that the chemical composition and pharmacological activity of rhodiola is definitely species related. Essentially rhodiola rosea counteracts the effects of stress that ultimately underlies the evolution of most diseases

Rose (Rosa spp)  Honey of Red Rose (Apothecary) was once an official pharmaceutical preparation in the US for sore mouths and throats.  Fill a jar with fresh, dry rose petals and clear honey.  Cover and leave in a warm place for one week then strain the mixture.  Sip a teaspoonful of the honey as required.  Rose vinegar was used for headaches, especially those brought on by heat.  The leaves are a mild, but seldom used, laxative.  In Greece, Hippocrates recommended rose flowers mixed with oil for diseases of the uterus.  Ayurvedic physicians use the petals in poultices to treat skin wounds and inflammations.  At various times, European herbalists recommended dried rose petal tea for headache, dizziness, mouth sores, and menstrual cramps.  Rose hips are a significant source of vitamin C. 

            TCM: Petals: dries cold, clear mucous discharges, relieves constrictive feelings of the chest and abdomen (stuck liver chi), treats poor appetite, harmonizes blood and is used for irregular menstruation and pain caused by blood stagnation.  Hips: used for diarrhea, enuresis, frequent urination, spermatorrhea and leucorrhea (all complaints of deficient kidney chi)  

Rosy Twisted Stalk (Streptopus roseus): Aside from being mildly laxative, the juice of the berries can be used to cool and soothe minor burns and skin irritations.  The root was steeped in water and used as a poultice for a sty in the eye.  An infusion of the roots has been used in the treatment of a fallen womb. A cough syrup can be made from the root. The flowers are diaphoretic. They can be used to induce sweating in the treatment of colds and fevers. The plant is tonic. An infusion of the plant has been used in the treatment of coughs.

Rue (Ruta graveolens) Rue was once an officially recognized treatment for hypertension, diabetes, and allergic reactions.  It’s primary reputation is that of an antispasmodic for smooth muscles. The action is attributed to the alkaloids arborine and arborinine, as well as to the coumarin rutamarin and componenets fo the essential oil.    It is still a popular folk medicine in countries like Mexico, Lebanon, Iran, India and China.  In traditional Chinese medicine, the leaves are applied to reduce inflammation from snakebites, insect bites, strains and sprains.  The rutin it contains strengthens fragile blood vessels and helps alleviate varicose veins, although using the whole plant has been found to work better.  Both an eyewash and a tea are suggested for soothing tired eyes and headaches from eyestrain, and the tea is also used to decrease the pain and inflammation of an earache.  Rue increases blood flow to the digestive tract, relaxes muscles and calms heart palpitations, nervous indigestion and colic.    The Unami medicine of India recommends rue not only to treat various physical conditions, but to improve mental clarity and as an anaphrodisiac—although the Polish consider it an aphrodisiac.  Rue is a well-known cold and menstrual cramp remedy in Latin America, where an ointment is also applied for gout and rheumatic pains, and strong tea compresses are placed on the chest for bronchitis. The infusion benefits coughs, cramp and colic.  The leaves are used in poultices and salves to relieve sciatica, gout and rheumatic pains.  Fresh leaves are placed on the temples to relieve headache.  Fomentations of the tea are placed on the chest to help bronchitis.  The juice or oil is placed in the ear to relieve earaches. It is used to kill intestinal parasites, and Arabs add it to suspect water to counteract any ill effects.   A strong infusion made by pouring a little boiling water on dried or fresh rue leaves can be dabbed on insect bites to bring relief.  

Rupturewort (Herniaria glabra )  The whole plant, gathered when in flower, is astringent, very actively diuretic and expectorant. It appears to have an antispasmodic effect upon the bladder and is used in the treatment of dropsy, catarrh of the bladder, cystitis and kidney stones. It has also gained a reputation for treating hernias. Externally, it has been used as a poultice to speed the healing of ulcers. The whole plant appears to have an antispasmodic effect on the bladder.

-S- HERBS 

Sabadilla (Schoenocaulon officinale): Rarely used internally now.  It is occasionally used in combination with other herbs to treat rheumatism and gout.  It has been used in homeopathic medicine in cases of hysteria, headache, and migraine, Externally, in the form of extracts, sabadilla has been employed mainly to remove head lice.  Veratria is useful as an ointment in rheumatism and neuralgia, but is regarded as being less valuable than aconite. The ointment is also employed for the destruction of pedicule. Applied to unbroken skin it produces tingling and numbness, followed by coldness and anaesthesia. Given subcutaneously, it causes violent pain and irritation, in addition to the symptoms following an internal dose.

Sacred Creeping Grass (Desmostachya bipinnata  syn Eragrostis cynosuriodes)  Ayurvedic Applications: Root-dysentery, menorrhagia, other bleeding disorders like hemorrhoids, purpura, etc.  Used as an infusion

Safflower (Carthamus tinctorius)  The flowers are laxative and diuretic.  A tea was once given to children with fevers, measles and other eruptive skin diseases.  A paste made of the flowers and water was applied to boils. The petals were boiled with lamb and eaten to strengthen the heart.  In the southwest, Indians soak the flowers in water until the water is visibly yellow, then drink the decoction to reduce fever.   Internally for coronary artery disease, menstrual and menopausal problems and jaundice.  Externally for bruising, sprains, skin inflammations, wounds, and painful or paralyzed joints (flowers).  Safflower is also used to inhibit blood clotting.  For post-natal abdominal pain; clots or seepages of blood in abdominal region; traumatic injuries; stiffness and pain in joints.  The extracted oil of the herb is used in tui na massage.  The East Indians, who know it as koosumbha, also use safflower medicinally and employ the oil as the base of some Ayurvedic medicinal body oils.

TCM: The tincture is widely used in China on sprains and wounds to decrease inflammation.  The Chinese also use it combined with other herbs to treat problems relating to heart disease, circulation, menstruation and blood congestion.

Saffron (Crocus sativus)  Saffron has been cited as a remedy for such diverse ills.  In England and the US, penny packets of saffron threads were sold as recently as 50 years ago in pharmacies to cure measles.  Cheaper and superior herbs are easily found to replicate its ability to induce menstruation, treat period pain and chronic uterine bleeding and calm indigestion and colic.  In Chinese herbal medicine, saffron stigmas are occasionally used to treat painful obstructions of the chest, to stimulate menstruation and to relieve abdominal pain.  They regard it as a catalyst to be combined with other herbs.   It is one of the finest blood vitalizers known.  It counteracts inflammatory conditions associated with excess pitta (fire), while at the same time powerfully stimulating the circulation and regulating the spleen, liver and heart. It is very sattvic or spiritually balancing and gives “the energy of love, devotion and compassion.  Contains a blood pressure-lowering chemical called crocetin.  Some authorities even speculate that the low incidence of heart disease in Spain is due to that nation’s high saffron consumption.