Alfalfa is rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K, which support healthy skin, hair growth, and immune function. It naturally helps balance hormones and supports digestion thanks to its high fiber and phytoestrogen content. Alfalfa also provides minerals like calcium and magnesium, promoting stronger bones and overall vitality.
Energetics: Cooling, moistening, soothing, demulcent, balancing Vata and Pitta dosha
Constituents: Mucilage and polysaccharides (including pectin), flavonoids, tannins, coumarins, phenolic acids, calcium oxalate, and the amino acid (asparagine).
Herbal Action: Alterative, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Demulcent, Diuretic, Emollient, Expectorant (some sources do not agree), Immunomodulator, Nutritive, Vulnerary
Medicinal Uses:
Marshmallow is prized for its high mucilage content, which coats and protects irritated tissues, soothing inflammation of the mucous membranes in the throat, lungs, stomach, and urinary tract. It is useful for dry coughs, sore throats, bronchitis, heartburn, GERD, gastritis, ulcers, and cystitis. The mucilage forms a protective, gel-like layer that reduces friction and supports healing of the digestive lining.
Externally, marshmallow softens and heals dry or inflamed skin, such as in eczema, burns, and wounds. Gentle and nutritive, it acts as a demulcent, emollient, mild diuretic, and anti-inflammatory, bringing relief where dryness, heat, or irritation are present—particularly balancing excess Vata and Pitta in Ayurvedic terms.
Preparation:
Marshmallow roots can be prepared using infusion methods (cold and hot), decoctions, syrups/tinctures, and poultices/compresses. Cold infusion is considered the purest way to preserve the mucilage.
Cold infusion: Preserves the mucilaginous polysaccharides that coat and soothe tissues. Place dried marshmallow root in a jar (about 1/4 full), fill with lukewarm water, and cover. Let sit for a minimum of 4 hours or overnight. The water should turn a soft yellow. Strain before drinking. This produces a thick, viscous liquid that is gentle on the digestive tract. Cold infusion extracts primarily mucilage, while simmering also releases starches.
Hot infusion: Pour hot water (not boiling) over 1–2 tbsp dried root per cup and steep 10–20 minutes. Strain and drink to soothe the throat, lungs, or digestive tract.
Decoction: Simmer 1–2 tbsp dried root in 1–2 cups water for 20–30 minutes. Produces a thicker, more viscous liquid suitable for digestive, urinary, or throat support.
Syrups/tinctures: Combine marshmallow decoction or infusion with honey to make a soothing cough syrup. Alcohol-based tinctures extract some constituents but do not carry the full mucilage.
Poultice/compress: Soak or simmer the root, mash or grind into a paste, and apply externally to dry, inflamed, or irritated skin, burns, or wounds.
Mindful Usage:
Generally regarded as very gentle and safe, including for children and during short-term pregnancy use, though consultation is always wise for ongoing use.
Because it coats the digestive tract, marshmallow may alter blood sugar absorption, so monitor levels if diabetic or using glucose-lowering medication. Marshmallow’s mucilage can also slow absorption of other medications taken at the same time. Allow at least 1–2 hours between marshmallow and prescription drugs or supplements.
Marshmallow flowers (and possibly other parts) may have a mild blood-thinning effect based on limited laboratory data — use caution if taking anticoagulants (e.g., warfarin), antiplatelet drugs, or before surgery.
Store dried roots in an airtight container away from moisture — mucilage easily absorbs humidity.
P
Peppermint
(Mentha × piperita)
Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
Parts used: Leaf (primarily), sometimes aerial parts (leaf + flowering tops)
Peppermint leaf is prized for its essential oils, particularly menthol and menthone, which soothe and relax smooth muscle in the digestive and respiratory tracts. It is useful for indigestion, bloating, gas, nausea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and mild stomach cramps. Peppermint can help relieve tension headaches, mild coughs, and congestion. The cooling and aromatic properties support mental clarity and mild nervous system relaxation.
Peppermint leaf is balancing for excess Pitta and Kapha in Ayurvedic terms. Externally, peppermint can be used (diluted) to relieve muscular tension, inflammation, and mild skin irritation. Gentle and stimulating, it acts as a carminative, spasmolytic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, aromatic, and mild expectorant.
Preparation:
Peppermint leaves can be prepared using infusion methods (cold and hot), decoctions, syrups/tinctures, and topical compresses.
Cold infusion: Preserves delicate aromatic oils and is gentle on the digestive tract. Place 1–2 tsp dried leaves in cold water and let sit for 4–12 hours (overnight). Strain before drinking.
Hot infusion: Pour hot water (not boiling) over 1–2 tsp dried leaves per cup and steep 5–15 minutes. Strain and drink to soothe digestion or for mild respiratory support.
Decoction: Generally less common, as prolonged boiling can degrade volatile oils; used briefly in formulas or for syrups.
Syrups/tinctures: Combine peppermint infusion or decoction with honey for throat or mild cough support. Alcohol-based tinctures extract some constituents but partially lose volatile oils.
Poultrice/compress: Steep fresh or dried leaves and apply externally, or use diluted essential oil for tension headaches, inflammation, or minor skin irritation.
Mindful Usage:
Peppermint leaf is generally regarded as very safe for adults and children in moderate doses. Consultation is recommended for medicinal doses during pregnancy or nursing.
Digestive sensitivity: May worsen reflux or heartburn in some individuals.
Essential oil caution: Highly concentrated peppermint oil should not be ingested undiluted; topical use should be diluted to avoid irritation.
Medication interactions: May alter absorption of some medications; allow at least 1–2 hours between peppermint consumption and prescription drugs.
Storage: Store dried leaves in an airtight container, away from heat, light, and moisture, to preserve potency and aromatic oils.
Y
Yarrow
(Achillea millefolium)
Family: Asteraceae (aster or daisy family)
Parts used: Aerial parts (leaf, stem, flower), sometimes root
Yarrow is prized for its ability to support wound healing, reduce inflammation, and regulate bleeding. It is useful for minor cuts, abrasions, burns, bruises, and insect bites due to its astringent and hemostatic properties. Traditionally, yarrow has been used to reduce fevers, support digestion, relieve mild menstrual cramps, and ease colds and respiratory congestion.
Yarrow is also used internally as a digestive tonic, stimulating bile production and relieving bloating, mild gastrointestinal cramps, and diarrhea. Its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects make it supportive for minor infections and skin irritations.
Externally, yarrow can be applied as a poultice or infused wash to promote wound healing and reduce inflammation. Its bitter and astringent properties can help tone tissues and reduce excessive secretions.
In Ayurvedic terms, it is particularly useful for balancing excess Pitta and Kapha.
Preparation:
Yarrow can be prepared using infusion methods (cold and hot), decoctions, syrups/tinctures, and poultices/compresses.
Cold infusion: Preserves delicate volatile compounds and is gentler on the digestive tract. Place 1–2 tsp dried aerial parts in cold water and let sit for 4–12 hours. Strain before drinking.
Hot infusion: Pour hot water (not boiling) over 1–2 tsp dried aerial parts per cup and steep 10–15 minutes. Strain and drink to support digestion, reduce fever, or ease mild respiratory symptoms.
Decoction: Simmer 1–2 tbsp dried yarrow in 1–2 cups water for 15–20 minutes. Strain and drink or use as a base for syrups. Suitable for stronger therapeutic effects.
Syrups/tinctures: Combine yarrow infusion or decoction with honey to soothe minor respiratory irritation or digestive discomfort. Alcohol-based tinctures extract some constituents and provide a concentrated form for internal use.
Poultice/compress: Crush or simmer yarrow leaves and flowers to form a paste and apply externally to cuts, bruises, insect bites, or inflamed skin. Can also be used as a wash for wounds or rashes.
Mindful Usage:
Yarrow is generally regarded as safe in moderate amounts but should be used cautiously in certain situations: Pregnancy: Use with caution; yarrow may stimulate uterine contractions. Avoid during early pregnancy unless supervised by a healthcare provider.
Allergies: Those allergic to Asteraceae plants (ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums) may react.
Medication interactions: Yarrow may enhance the effects of anticoagulants, antiplatelet drugs, or medications affecting blood pressure. Allow at least 1–2 hours between yarrow and prescription drugs or supplements.
Topical caution: Can cause mild skin irritation in sensitive individuals.
Storage: Store dried aerial parts in an airtight container away from heat, light, and moisture to preserve volatile oils and potency.
