Medicinal Action

Peripheral vasodilator
Peripheral vasodilators work by relaxing the smooth muscles in blood vessel walls, allowing for increased blood flow to the extremities. These substances are particularly helpful for conditions like Raynaud’s syndrome, poor circulation, and cold hands and feet. Herbal examples include ginkgo (Ginkgo biloba), which enhances microcirculation and oxygen delivery, cayenne pepper (Capsicum annuum), which stimulates blood flow and promotes warmth, and ginger (Zingiber officinale), known for its circulatory and warming effects. Peripheral vasodilators may also assist in managing blood pressure and reducing vascular strain in the outer areas of the body.

Products containing Peripheral vasodilator
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Focused Mind Tea Blend
A naturally caffeine-free herbal tea crafted to enhance mental clarity and cognitive vitality. With refreshing peppermint, brain-boosting gotu kola and ginkgo, and energizing lemongrass, this blend awakens the senses and inspires creativity.
Monographs with the (Peripheral vasodilator) function
Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)
Historical Use:
Mullein has a long history of use in European folk medicine and among many Native American nations as a soothing herb for the lungs. The leaves and flowers were commonly brewed as a tea or smoked to ease coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The plant’s soft, velvety leaves were applied as poultices to calm inflammation and promote healing of burns, wounds, and skin irritations. Mullein flowers were traditionally infused into oil to relieve earaches and reduce pain and swelling in the ear.
Current Uses:
Mullein remains a popular respiratory remedy. Its expectorant and demulcent properties help thin and move mucus, making coughs more productive and easing breathing during colds, bronchitis, and other congestive conditions. Teas, tinctures, and syrups are frequently used to soothe sore throats and support overall lung health.
Externally, mullein is applied in infused oils, poultices, and compresses to calm irritation, reduce inflammation, and assist with wound healing. Mullein flower oil continues to be a staple in ear drop preparations to ease ear discomfort and support a healthy inflammatory response.
Beyond respiratory and topical uses, mullein is sometimes used to soothe irritated mucous membranes in the digestive tract and gently support elimination when there is dryness or inflammation.
Learn More:
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Nettle Leaf (Urtica dioica)
Uses
Historical Use:
Nettle has a long tradition of use across Europe and Asia as a strengthening spring tonic, valued for its ability to “cleanse the blood” and restore vitality after the winter months. Fresh nettles were sometimes used for urtication — intentionally brushed on the skin — to stimulate circulation and relieve joint pain or stiffness.
Current Uses:
Nettle leaf is now widely recognized as a nutrient-rich herb, abundant in vitamins A, C, K, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron. The leaf is taken as tea, infusion, or food to replenish nutrients, support general health, and gently build strength. Its anti-inflammatory actions make it a key ally for easing arthritis, joint pain, and muscle soreness. Many herbalists recommend nettle leaf for reducing seasonal allergies and supporting clear, healthy breathing, likely due to its influence on histamine pathways.
Nettle leaf is also used to encourage healthy kidney and urinary function and is considered mildly diuretic, supporting the removal of excess fluids. Externally and internally, nettle leaf has been used to support healthy skin and hair, helping reduce dandruff, strengthen hair, and soothe skin conditions such as eczema.
Nettle root is distinct in its action, most notably used to support urinary flow and prostate health in cases of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is also considered mildly astringent and has been traditionally used to address excessive bleeding.
Nettle seed is prized as a nutritive tonic, rich in fatty acids and micronutrients. Contemporary herbalists use nettle seed as a rejuvenative herb, sometimes referred to as an adaptogen, to support energy, endurance, and overall vitality.
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Eleuthero Root (Eleutherococcus senticosus)
Traditional Uses:
In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Eleuthero has been used for over 2,000 years to fortify Qi and support the Spleen and Kidney meridians. It was traditionally used to increase stamina, combat fatigue, and strengthen the immune system, especially during recovery from illness. In Russia, Eleuthero gained prominence during the Soviet era for its ability to enhance athletic performance, mental clarity, and stress resilience.
Current Uses:
Today, Eleuthero is widely used as an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress and improve endurance and energy. It is commonly used for:
- Increasing energy and stamina during periods of fatigue or physical exertion
- Supporting immune function, particularly in times of stress or recovery
- Balancing stress responses, promoting mental clarity and focus
- Enhancing athletic performance and aiding in post-exercise recovery
- Improving overall vitality and resilience to environmental stressors
Learn More:
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Hops Flower (Humulus lupulus)
Sedative and Relaxant: Traditionally, hops have been used for their calming effects on the nervous system. In European folk medicine, hops were used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. People often stuffed pillows with hops to induce sleep and ease nervous tension.
Digestive Aid: Hops have long been recognized for their bitter properties, which stimulate digestive secretions. They were commonly used to treat indigestion, loss of appetite, and digestive discomfort in traditional herbal medicine.
Antiseptic and Anti-inflammatory: Hops were also used for their antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. Traditional healers applied hops externally to treat skin infections and inflammation and internally to reduce fevers and combat infections.
Current Uses:
Sleep Aid: In modern herbalism, hops are a popular remedy for insomnia and anxiety. They are often combined with other sedative herbs, such as valerian or passionflower, in supplements or teas to promote restful sleep.
Nervous System Support: Hops are frequently used to alleviate nervous tension, stress, and mild anxiety. They are incorporated into tinctures, capsules, or teas designed to calm the mind and relax the body.
Digestive Health: Due to their bitter compounds, hops continue to be used as a digestive stimulant, helping to enhance appetite and alleviate indigestion.
Anti-inflammatory and Antibacterial: Hops possess anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and are still used in modern herbal medicine to treat skin conditions, infections, and inflammation both internally and externally.
Brewing: Hops are famously used in the brewing industry to flavor and preserve beer. Their bitter resins and aromatic oils give beer its distinctive flavor and help prevent bacterial growth during the fermentation process.
Learn More:
Want to explore more about Hops’ energetics and history? Visit our Materia Medica section and search for this herb to deepen your understanding.