Sciencewood Ramesh Kumar P | Page 79

Pg.no. 79 Agrimony: Scientific Name: Agrimonia eupatoria Common Names: Common agrimony, church steeples or sticklewort Family: Rosaceae Part Used: Aerial parts Habitat: Agrimony is native to Europe, but can also be found in temperate climate in most parts of the Northern hemisphere. Agrimony tea is soothing and good for sore throats. It is sometimes used by singers to gargle with. This herb is used to refresh and clear the throat. Agrimony is sometimes used for loose bowels as well. This herb is sometimes prescribed for fevers, digestive and bowel troubles, coughs and asthma. It can be used externally for skin sores. CAUTION: This herb may make the skin more sensitive to sunlight and may increase the risk of sunburn. Do not take if pregnant or nursing or if you are planning to have surgery within two weeks. Aloe: Scientific Name: Aloe vera Common Names: Aloe, cape, Barbados Family: Asphodelaceae Part Used: Leaves Habitat: Aloe is native to the Mediterranean. It also grows in Latin America and the Caribbean. The gel inside of the leaves of the Aloe plant can be used externally to treat minor burns, sun burn, cuts, scrapes and poison ivy. Aloe gel is good for moisturizing the skin and is a main ingredient of many skin care products. Many people use it to reduce acne and treat other skin problems. CAUTION: Some people have taken Aloe internally as a laxative. The Mayo Clinic website states that this is not safe and can lead to severe cramping, diarrhea and dangerous imbalances of electrolytes even if used infrequently.