Plants for Health


1. Aconite
Also known as Blue Rocket, Monkshood and Wolfsbane, this beautiful, but poisonous relative of buttercup has been considered a good pain-reliever in folk medicine. Cayce recommended its use only in topical liniments for neuralgic pain (e.g., lumbago, sciatica and rheumatism). The remedy was never to be used on broken skin.

2. Alfalfa
Alfalfa is a well-known herb to health-conscious consumers. It is high in nutrients, which are drawn into the plant from deep in the soil. The richest land source of trace minerals, the roots of Alfalfa plants have been known to reach as much as thirty feet deep! The leaves of the alfalfa plant are rich in minerals and nutrients, including calcium, magnesium, potassium, and carotene. They are also a source of protein, vitamin E and vitamin K. Alfalfa has been used by the Chinese since the sixth century to treat kidney stones, and to relieve fluid retention and swelling. Alfalfa nourishes the digestive, skeletal, glandular, and urinary systems. Alfalfa contains chlorophyll, which is renowned for its cleansing qualities.

3. Almond
Throughout centuries almonds have been praised for their tasty nuts as well as skin softening oil. They are rich in calcium and have high protein content. According to Cayce almonds also carry ‘more phosphorus and iron in a combination easily assimilated than any other nut’(1131-2). Cayce also repeatedly advised that three almonds a day would prevent skin blemishes and all kinds of tumors. (1206-13)

4. Aloe Vera
This plant has a reputation of facilitating digestion, aiding blood and lymphatic circulation, as well as kidney, liver and gall bladder functions. Aloe contains at least three anti-inflammatory fatty acids that are helpful for the stomach, small intestine and colon. It naturally alkalizes digestive juices to prevent over-acidity, a common cause of digestive complaints. A newly discovered compound in aloe, acemannan, has been shown to strengthen the immune system by boosting  T-lymphocyte cells. In addition to that in Cayce readings aloe was advised for hemorrhoids and female genital problems.

5. Alum Root
A native species of geranium, Allum root is used as a digestive aid. Cayce prescribed it mostly for diarrhea.

6. Angelica Root
Angelica nutritionally supports the digestive and respiratory systems.

7. Anise
Anise seeds act to remove excess mucus in the gastrointestinal tract.

8. Arnica
Arnica has been known to help healing of bruises and strains. The herb was a common ingredient in some of Cayce massage formulas for the same complaints. 

9. Asaphoetida
Asaphoetida is traditionally used for disorders of alimentary tract. In Cayce readings this plant was recommended as an effective remedy against flu.

10. Barberry
Barberry nourishes the liver and gallbladder and helps the flow of bile. It also assists in the removal of toxins from the bowels.

11. Bayberry
Bayberry is an excellent blood purifier and detoxifier. If taken when the first symptoms appear, it will stop cold from developing.

12. Bdellium Gum
Bdellium gum has many positive effects on the human body. They include reducing inflammation, balancing function of the thyroid gland and lowering cholesterol level and body weight.

13. Bilberry
Bilberry (Vaccinium myrtillus) contains nutrients that protect eyes from strain or fatigue and improve night vision  and has long been a remedy for poor vision and "night blindness". The herb works by improving microcirculation and regeneration of retinal pigments, which are necessary for good eyesight. It is believed that this ability is related to the high amount of proanthocyanidins, a type of flavonoid that tends to strengthen the eye nourishing capillaries. It also promotes blood thinning and stimulates release of vasodilators. Anthocyanin, a natural antioxidant, lowers blood pressure, reduces clotting and improves blood supply to the nervous system. Anthocyanosides help in supporting collagen structures in blood vessels of the eyes and thus growing strong, healthy capillaries. Clinical tests have indicated that oral administration of bilberry tends to improve visual accuracy in healthy people and can help those with eye disorders such as myopia, retinitis pigmentosa and glaucoma.

14. Bissy Nut
Bissy nut (Cola acuminate) reportedly relieves symptoms of inflammation in disorders such as rheumatism and gout. It also is used as a diuretic and possesses metabolism-enhancing properties.

15. Black Cohosh
Native Americans used Black Cohosh to treat snakebite, the root for the complaints associated with the skeletal system and a tea from the root to soothe sore throat. The herb is traditionally associated with gynecological problems, including menstruation, labor and delivery. Studies have shown that black cohosh contains substances that bind to estrogen receptors, which may explain  the balancing effect on hormones in menopausal women. When combined with other nervine herbs, it shows excellent soothing ability to the nervous system.

16. Black Currant Oil
Black currant oil is rich in linoleic and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This substances promote the production of prostaglandins (hormone-like substances), which help to regulate functions of the circulatory system. GLA assists the body with its energy processes in the muscles, brain and  bone marrow, and is a structural component of the cell membranes.

17. Black Walnut
Black walnut hulls contain a substance which helps the body eliminate parasites (e.g., ringworm) and promote regular bowel movements. Although this is the primary remedial property of this herb, it is also used for skin ailments, fungal infections and lesions from poison oak. 

18. Blessed Thistle
Blessed thistle acts as a general tonic to the female reproductive system and hormonal balancing agent.

19. Blue Cohosh
Blue cohosh nutritionally supports the female reproductive system.

20. Blue Vervain
Blue vervain supports digestive, nervous and respiratory systems. It is helpful against colds, cough and flu, and acts as a diaphoretic (stimulates perspiration and thus aids detoxification).

21. Boneset
Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) has been used by Native Americans to reduce symptoms of flu and "break-bone" fevers, so hence the name. 

22. Burdock
Burdock is a natural blood purifier and detoxifier. It maintains healthy skin, nourishes the urinary and respiratory systems, and also nutritionally supports joints and other skeletal tissues. It is reported to promote glandular and hormone balance, as well as to remove accumulations and deposits around the joints.

23. Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada relieves constipation without being habit-forming, and supports nutritionally the stomach, liver, pancreas and gallbladder. It assists with digestion, aids in the colon cleansing and nourishing, help the body to eliminate worms and parasites.

24. Castor
Castor (Ricinus communis) is also known as Palma Christi, meaning ‘the hand of Christ’, which suggests its extraordinary healing properties. The herb is mostly known as a strong purgative and emollient, but Cayce rarely prescribed it for this (internal) use. He regarded castor oil as an aid to lymphatic circulation, which indirectly influenced both assimilation and elimination, as well as blood circulation. In spite its thickness, skin absorbs this oil very well, especially if pre-warmed, and castor oil packs and massage seems to be beneficial for the underlying tissues. 

25. Catnip
Catnip calms the nervous system and aids digestion. It is also said to ease flu symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea.

26. Cat's Claw
The inner bark of this plant support nutritionally immune, circulatory and gastrointestinal systems through its antioxidant properties.

27. Cayenne
Cayenne is a pepper well known for its benefits to the circulatory system - balancing blood pressure levels and resisting abnormal bleeding. The plant also nourishes the digestive system. Applied topically, it helps relieve minor discomfort. In combination with other herbs, Cayenne assists their utilization.

28. Balloon Vine
Balloon vine (Cardiospermum halicacabum) alleviates symptoms of eye, nose and sinus inflammation such as sneezing, tearing, red and itchy eyes as well as eczema and hives.

29. Celery
Celery seeds contain vitamins A, C and B-complex. In Cayce readings fresh celery was regarded as one of the ‘healthy food trinity’ together with carrots and lettuce.

30. Chamomile
Chamomile soothes the nerves and stomach, nourishes the respiratory tract and alleviates discomfort associated with menstrual problems.

31. Chickweed
Chickweed is a natural blood cleanser, helps the elimination of mucus and fatty plaques and sooths and nourishes the gastrointestinal system.

32. Coltsfoot
Coltsfoot (Tussilago farfara) is regarded as one of the best remedies for coughs and respiratory problems due to its soothing effect on mucous membranes, particularly of the respiratory system.

33. Comfrey
Comfrey strengthens the respiratory system and nourishes the pituitary gland, skin and bones.

34. Cranberry
Cranberry has been recognized as one of the best herbal remedies for urinary tract infections. It contains a compound that prevents bacteria from adhering to the walls of the bladder and rest of the urinary tract. The active ingredients in cranberry do not kill Escherichia coli, they rather interfere with the bacteria’s ability to adhere and colonize. Using cranberry on a regular basis may help prevent not only urinary infections, but the formation of kidney stones as well. Cranberry cocktails sold commercially contain only 27% cranberry juice. The rest is sweetened water, added to counteract the tartness of the berry and to make it more palatable. In fact this product is called “cranberry juice cocktail” and typically has loads of calories. A landmark study has shown that it might be necessary to drink large quantities of cranberry juice daily for at least four to six weeks before any measurable results in reduction of pathogens is detectable.

35. Cyani Flowers
Cyani flowers soothe the nervous system and exert a positive influence on tissues of the eyes.

36. Damiana
Damiana is known for its aphrodisiac properties, and has also been used for nervousness, weakness and exhaustion. It is said to increase sperm count in the male and to balance hormones in women.

37. Dandelion
Dandelion nourishes the liver and contains many vital nutrients. Dandelion root has been used traditionally as a blood purifier, and an aid to the circulatory and glandular systems.

38. Devil's Claw
Devil's claw is known for its ability to nourish the skeletal system. Studies indicate that its action is similar to cortisone as it relieves pain in joints and connective tissues.

39. Dong Quai
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis), a member of the Parsley family, is native to China and also known as Dang Gui, Tang Kwei, Tang Kuei, Chinese Angelica and as the "female Ginseng". The herb calms the central nervous system and nourishes the brain. It also balances and strengthens the female organs by regulating their functions, and helps with menstrual disorders and premenstrual syndrome.  However, it should not be used during pregnancy or by women who experience heavy menstrual flow. Some references suggest it also not be taken by women prone to fibroids or endometriosis. It should not be taken in the presence of diarrhea and is not recommended for individuals taking aspirin or other blood-thinning drugs on a regular basis.

40. Fig
Whether fresh or dry, figs are delicious addition to any cuisine or pharmacopoeia. Because of the high fiber content they help with bowel movements, and also provide calcium and B-vitamins. Dry figs combined with dates, milk and cornmeal constitute ‘spiritual food’ often suggested by Cayce.

41. Grapes
Nutritious and easily digestible, grapes have been often used therapeutically (e.g., ‘Grape cure’ by Johanna Brandt). Cayce recommended grape fast  for detoxification (four days only on grapes and water), abdominal grape poultice for spastic colon and colitis, and one or two ounces of red vine taken with a slice of pumpernickel bread for ‘blood and nerve building’.

42. Echinacea
Echinacea has been traditionally used topically to help repair skin wounds and internally to enhance immunity. The active constituents in Echinacea which are thought to bolster the body's defense are known as polysaccharides. They stimulate the macrophages activity, which destroy harmful microorganisms and even wayward cells. It also activates production of interferon, which protects cells against viral infection.

43. Elderberry Flowers
Tea from elderberry flowers soothes the respiratory system, improves circulation, purifies the blood and aids detoxification.

44. Elecampane
Elecampane is a natural expectorant and provides nourishment to the respiratory system.

45. Ephedra sinica
This herb (Ma huang in Chinese) facilitates energy and heat exchange for efficient metabolic function, and is nutritionally beneficial for fat reduction and energy increase. 

46. False Unicorn
This herb is considered a tonic to the reproductive organs and alleviates headaches and depression in menopausal women.

47. Fennel
Fennel helps detoxification by aiding waste removal from the body.

48. Fenugreek
Fenugreek has many traditional uses, including nourishing the skin, respiratory system and pancreas. It helps the body to dissolve fat and expel mucus and toxins.

49. Flax
Flax seed or leen seed oil contains omega 3 (linolenic acid), omega 6 and omega 9 fatty acids. Omegas 3 and 6 benefit the cardiovascular, immune and nervous systems. The oil also contains beta carotene (approx. 4 300 IU per teaspoon) and vitamin E (appprox. 15 IU per teaspoon). Homogenized (finely blended) with diary protein such as yogurt or cottage cheese, it significantly reduces inflammation (see ‘Protein diet’ by Johanna Budwig).

50. Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia cambogia is a South Asian plant that is nutritionally beneficial in blocking the production of fats. Scientific research conducted on this herb since 1969 demonstrates that it slows the body's conversion of carbohydrates and excess calories to fat, decreasing production of harmful fats (low-density lipoproteins), promoting sustained energy levels by enhancing the body's production of glycogen, reducing the body's desire for excess food; helping to nutritionally support the metabolism and burn calories. Human studies indicate that Garcinia, also known as HCA (hydroxycitric acid) may be especially effective when combined with chromium and L-carnitine.

51. Garlic
Garlic is nurturing for the circulatory, immune and urinary systems. It helps to maintain normal blood pressure and supports immunity with its natural antibiotic and fungicide properties.

52. Gentian Root
Gentian Root stimulates appetite, strengthens the digestive system and nutritionally supports the stomach, liver, spleen, pancreas and kidneys.

53. Ginger
Ginger root is helpful to the gastrointestinal system and prepared as tea can reduce nausea. It is beneficial for circulation, and thus indirectly relieves symptoms of congestion and assists in waste elimination through the skin. It acts as a catalyst for other herbs, increasing their effectiveness.

54. Ginkgo biloba
Ginkgo biloba has long been valued for its effects on aging, which seem to be due its antioxidant properties that effectively support all bodily systems. The hypothesis that free radicals (reactive molecules) cause age related physical deterioration is gaining uniform support and benefits of antioxidant supplementation have established ginkgo as a very potent free radical scavenger.

55. Ginseng
Ginseng is nutritionally beneficial for the immune system and long term energy. It helps the circulatory system and enhances mental alertness and stamina.

56. Gold Shower
Gold shower (Galphimia glauca) reduces the incidence of sneezing fits, alleviates itching, prickling and burning in the nasal mucous membranes, as well as irritation of the eyes with severe tearing, itching and burning sensation.

57. Golden Seal
Golden seal is used both internally and externally to fight infections and cleanse the system of foreign organisms. This herb soothes the inflammations of mucous membranes and especially nourishes the liver, glandular and respiratory systems. 

58. Gotu Kola
Gotu kola is known in India as a ‘longevity’ herb, which provides nourishment for the nervous system, especially the brain. It is said to enhance vitality and improve memory. It is also known for stabilizing blood pressure and assisting in wound healing.

59. Hawthorn Berries
Hawthorn is traditionally known for its strong and powerful effect on the circulatory system, particularly the heart. Even today it remains a favorite among herbalists as a cardiac tonic. When used on a regular basis hawthorn exerts a continued protection to the cardiovascular system.

60. Hop
Hop is considered both stimulant and relaxant. It is rich in nutrients that nourish the nervous system and possibly for that reason helps with pain and insomnia. Cayce had something different to say: “All forms of alcohol are harmful, especially anything made with hops”. (2390-4)

61. Horehound
Horehound root (Marrubium vulgare) soothes the respiratory system and is a natural expectorant. It is not by chance that the old-fashioned Horehound candy was a popular sore throat and cough remedy.

62. Horsetail
Horsetail is rich in ‘beauty nutrients’ like silica that nourish nails, skin, hair, bones and connective tissue. It is also beneficial for the glands and urinary tract. 

63. Ho Shou Wu
Ho shou wu (Fo-Ti) is fabled in Asian history to restore the original color of graying hair. This herb is reputed to improve health of the liver and kidneys as well as to provide nourishment to the glandular, nervous and skeletal systems. The properties of Ho Shou Wu are said to be similar to Golden Seal, Chamomile and Ginseng – it enhances stamina and resistance to diseases.

64. Hydrangea
Hydrangea has traditionally been used to strengthen and regulate the urinary tract function. It contains alkaloids, which soothe the bladder and kidneys and act as anti-inflammatory joint aid.

65. Hyssop
Hyssop has been used for hundreds of years as a remedy for respiratory problems. It soothes throat and nourishes the lungs.

66. Irish Moss
Irish moss is high in nutrients, which support the glandular system (especially thyroid) and purify kidneys and lungs.

67. Jerusalim Artichoke
This tuberous vegetable is slowly becoming more popular among the ‘diabetes prone’ people. Cayce said that one tuber a day, whether fresh or cooked, helps not only pancreas , but liver and spleen as well. Additionally, it stimulates elimination through the kidneys.

68. Juniper Berry
Juniper berries strengthen the urinary system and help to eliminate excess water and toxins.

69. Kava Kava
Kava kava is soothing to the nerves.

70. Kelp
Kelp is seaweed that grows in the rich ocean beds, far below surface pollution levels. Because of its high nutrient content, this herb is reputedly beneficial for a wide range of applications. Kelp contains nearly thirty minerals important for the glandular health (especially thyroid and pituitary). By balancing glandular function kelp positively affects metabolism and rate at which body burns calories. Reportedly kelp is nourishing to the sensory nerves, spinal cord and brain membranes and tissue. It contains alginic acid which helps in protecting the body against the effects of radiation. Because of its high iodine content, kelp was recommended by Cayce as a glandular (especially thyroid) support, even though his preferred choice was Atomidine (an easily assimilated iodine preparation).

71. Lady Slipper
Lady slipper is a member of the orchid family, which root reportedly possesses many nerve sustaining properties.

72. Lavender
The essential oils of French lavender are used predominantly in the cosmetic industry. In aromatherapy the oil is ascribed stimulating and healing attributes. Cayce recommended lavender oil as a part of massage formulas, lotions and in the steam cabinets.

73. Licorice
Licorice root nutritionally supports the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, heart and spleen. This herb soothes irritated mucous membranes and helps in reducing mucus and removing phlegm with its expectorant properties. Licorice root stimulates the adrenal glands and helps the body cope with stress. Its effects are similar not only to cortisone but estrogen as well. 

74. Lobelia
Lobelia was once smoked by Native American Indians to relieve respiratory problems-hence its other name - Indian Tobacco. Today, Lobelia is used as a smoking deterrent. Its major alkaloid lobeline is said to be similar to nicotine, but milder. Lobeline salts in the body reportedly make the taste of nicotine extremely unpleasant. Additionally, Lobelia is considered to be one of the most powerful herbs to help relax the nervous system. It also enhances the function of the respiratory system and has antispasmodic effects. 

75. Luffa
Luffa operculata alleviates nasal congestion and chronic inflammation of the throat and larynx.

76. Magnolia
Magnolia bark (Magnolia glauca) has been used in traditional herbal medicine for a wide variety of reasons, including eradication of the tobacco habit.

77. Male Fern
Male fern helps the body get rid of tapeworm.

78. Mandrake
Mandrake works with the liver, gallbladder and all aspects of digestion. It exerts a powerful influence on the glands.

79. Marshmallow
Marshmallow nutritionally supports and soothes the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems.

80. Milk Thistle
The active ingredient in milk thistle seed extract is silymarin, a potent, flavonoid-like antioxidant which prevents harm from free radicals and lends nutritional support to the liver.

81. Mullein (Verbascus thapsus)
Mullein has been referred to as a ‘natural wonder herb’, which aids irritations associated with the respiratory tract. Its antispasmodic and astringent properties are effective for a wide range of respiratory conditions. Mullein is an excellent expectorant that clears congestion, soothes throat and reduces bronchial irritation. It also nourishes the lymphatic and glandular systems. Cayce affirmed all of this by saying that the herb “absorbs the poisons from the body itself; relieving pain and causing the accumulations to be thrown off through the respiratory system” (988-7). Additionally, he advised mullein tea and poultice as the key treatment for varicose veins.

82. Myrrh
Traditionally, the properties of myrrh resin have been highly favored for soothing aching muscles.  The extract, when combined with water, is excellent as a comforting gargle for a scratchy throat. Tincture of myrrh was used in some massage formulas given by Cayce, usually for its stimulating effect on superficial circulation.

83. Nettle
Nettle (Urtica dioica) has a very high mineral and vitamin content. For that reason nettle leaves are cooked as food in some parts of the world. One of this herb's primary uses in traditional herbal medicine is as a natural antihistamine, said to be effective for relieving seasonal allergies such as hay fever and other pollen-related concerns. 

84. Noni
The noni plant has many folk-remedy uses. In Polynesia it is regarded as a wander plant, which supports the immune, digestive and respiratory systems.

85. Oats
Oats are rich in silica and thus important for the health of skin, hair, nails and connective tissues. Additionally, oat straw contains high amounts of bone-building materials. Cayce preferred steel cut oats as an option for breakfast, explaining that rolled oats were acid forming.

86. Onion
In folk medicine onions are often used for respiratory problems. Cayce also advised cooked onions with addition of raw corn meal as a poultice for chest congestion. Green onions were often recommended as a part of healthy diet.

87. Pan Pien Lien
Pan pien lien helps in removing respiratory congestion, thus strengthening lungs and indirectly soothing muscles and joints.

88. Papaya
Papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which helps digestion by breaking down protein.

89. Parruva Brava
Parruva brava is traditionally valued for its purification. The herb promotes perspiration and thus aids thermogenic processes of the body. 

90. Parsley
Parsley is valued as a blood builder and purifier, as well as blood pressure regulator. Cayce recommended parsley as a part of healthy diet.

91. Pau d'Arco
Pau d'arco is a South American herb which strengthen immune system.

92. Passionflower
Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) or maypop has been used to help the body reduce anxiety, hysteria and nervousness by sedating the nervous system. In both, herbal and homeopathic medicine, the plant has been used for pain, insomnia, nervous exhaustion, asthma and attention deficit disorder. In vitro experiments show that passicol, an alkaloid found in passionflower, kills a range of molds, yeasts, and bacteria. Maypop bitters were recommended by Cayce as a part of the treatment plan for epilepsy.

93. Peanut
Peanuts are rarely thought of as having medicinal properties, and are generally used for food, whether as roasted nuts, butter or oil for cooking. Cayce, however, praised peanut oil as a food for joints and muscles, basically ignoring it as a regular food. From soothing arthritic pain to beautifying the skin, peanut oil was an unavoidable ingredient in hundreds of massage oil prescriptions.  

94. Pennyroyal
Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium) is a member of the mint family, and not surprisingly acts as an effective aid for digestive complaints. This aromatic herb is also used as a decongestant for coughs and colds, as well as a diaphoretic (relieves fever by increasing perspiration).

95. Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) soothes the stomach and intestines. It has astringent properties and calms the nervous system. Peppermint is a nervine used to promote relaxation and relieve anxiety and headaches tension.

96. Periwinkle
Periwinkle relieves congestion and maintains circulation.

97. Pinapple
Pinapple has a proteolytic (protein breaking) enzyme called bromelain, which helps digestion.

98. Pippali Fruit
Pippali fruit is a pepper used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine for digestive disorders and obesity.

99. Pleurisy Root
Pleurisy Root or Butterfly Weed (Asclepias tuberosa) is a traditional Native American lung tonic commonly applied as an expectorant relieving fevers and lung inflammation.

100. Plantain
Plantain (Plantago major and Plantago lanceolata) is commonly used on minor wounds, sores and ulcers as an antiseptic or astringent. Tea, poultice or ointment made of plantain leaves, stalks, seeds and roots were recommended by Cayce for a number of applications, most commonly for injuries, abrasions, boils, ulcers, dermatitis, varicose veins, hemorrhoids, gangrene and skin cancer. 

101. Potato
Potato is the fourth largest crop in the world and is considered as a staple food in Ireland. In Cayce readings the skin of white potato was regarded as a dietary item (supplying salts needed for the thyroid gland) and as a remedy for eye infections in the form of poultice.

102. Poke
Though poisonous, poke was used as a medicinal plant by Native Americans. The phytolacca toxin is destroyed and removed by cooking the leaves in several waters. Cayce also cautioned that young, tender poke leaves should be first cooked to the boiling point and then, after water had been discarded, prepared as any other dietary greens. As a medicine for internal use Cayce’s formula resembles the controversial Hoxsey treatment for cancer.

103. Prickly Ash
Prickly Ash or Toothache bark is used in folk medicine as an effective masticatory for the treatment of teeth and gums. In addition, it stimulates blood and lymph circulation. Cayce said that prickly ash “is nature’s preservative for strengthening the tissue about the teeth” (1800-26). He prescribed a compound for gum and teeth problems under the name of IPSAB. In addition, Cayce recommended the bark for internal use in order to stimulate liver, pancreas and spleen.  

104. Psyllium
Psyllium has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for chronic diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, hemorrhoids and urinary problems. Psyllium husk (outer shell of the seed) is made of pure dietary fiber, which is partially broken down in the colon and feeds friendly intestinal bacteria, while inner part contains mucilage (complex carbohydrate) that attracts and retains water and thus forms a gelatinous substance. For that reason, psyllium is often included in high fiber cereals and is a popular over-the-counter supplement and bulk laxative.

105. Quassia
Quassia (Simarouba excelsa) is native to the Caribbean and primarily known as a bitter tonic that improves digestion. It is used as a supporting ingredient to decrease cravings for alcohol.

106. Queen of the Meadow
This herb is used to heal strains and sprains. It helps to restore normal function of ligaments and tendons, and to remove inorganic deposits from joints and surrounding connective tissues.

107. Ragweed
Ragweed (Ambrosia) is the most common cause of hay fever and appropriately dubbed as Hayfever plant. Interestingly, Cayce regarded ragweed as a natural antigen, advocating its internal use (chewing the fresh leaves) before the pollen season, which would relieve or even prevent the allergic reaction. Used as a tea it stimulates liver and aids elimination.

108. Raspberry
Red raspberry leaf regulates menstrual flow, strengthens the uterus wall and prepares the body for childbirth. It is also highly valued for its soothing and astringent properties to the stomach and intestinal tract, relieving and balancing diarrhea and constipation.

109. Rhubarb
Rhubarb acts as a laxative helping to dissolve mucus adhering to the walls of the colon. Cayce similarly advised rhubarb to increase eliminations, but also recommended it as a remedy for cough and chest congestion.

110. Safflower
Tea from the safflower flowers is beneficial for the liver, gallbladder and respiratory system. Safflower lowers cholesterol, breaks up phlegm and assists in eliminating excessive uric acid. 

111. Sage
Sage (Salvia officinalis) owes its other name of Eyebright to the mucilaginous properties of its seeds, which are used as a poultice for the inflammation of the eyes. In addition to its reputed anti-bacterial action, sage slows the secretion of fluids and consequently helps with excessive mucus discharge, sinus congestion and nasal drip. The folk remedy ‘Clary Water’, which contains sage flowers among its ingredients, was recommended by Cayce for a number of assimilation and elimination problems. Sage tea was used to sooth the stomach and aid digestion.  

112. Sarsaparilla
Sarsaparilla contains substances which are similar to the male hormone testosterone and the female hormone progesterone. It can safely help increase the metabolic rate and balance the glandular system.

113. Sassafras
Sassafras is used as demulcent, diaphoretic, diuretic and stimulant. In Cayce pharmacopoeia no other sassafras product surpassed the oil, which was usually combined with other ingredients for various massage formulas or used in vapor baths.

114. Saw Palmetto
Saw palmetto berry is said to nourish glandular tissue and is especially helpful to the prostate.

115. Schizandra Chinensis
Schizandra chinensis helps the body adapt to stress and nourishes the nervous system.

116. Scullcap
Scullcap is one of the most powerful herbs for getting a good night's sleep. It has a strengthening and calming effect on the nervous system, relaxes muscles and stabilizes blood pressure. Scullcap has also been found to help with nicotine, alcohol and drug withdrawal symptoms

117. Senega Root
Senega root nourishes the respiratory tract.

118. Senna
Senna is traditionally used as an effective laxative and is said to kill worms. In his readings, Cayce suggested various laxatives, instead of promoting just one. He advocated use of laxatives in alternating fashion (e.g., first vegetable then mineral preparation) and often combined senna with syrup of figs. Curiously, senna was also used in a compound formula recommended for cough and chest congestion.

119. Siberian Ginseng
Siberian ginseng supports the glandular system and has a beneficial effect on the heart and circulation. It is called an "adaptogen", which means that it helps adaptation to any situation which normally would alter body’s function. Siberian ginseng stimulates the entire body energy to overcome stress, fatigue and weakness. Studies suggest that Siberian Ginseng may lower blood sugar levels, balance blood pressure and enhance immunity by boosting production of natural killer cells.

120. Slippery Elm
Slippery elm soothes and coats mucous membranes and is used officially for irritations of the gastrointestinal and respiratory systems. Cayce regarded slippery elm as an intestinal antiseptic, which absorbs acid in the stomach, improves lymph flow and stimulates secretion of lactic fluids. 

121. Squaw Vine
Squaw relieves congestion in the uterus and ovaries, and aids in vaginal infections.

122. Suma
Suma is an adaptogen herb, which acts as a tonic helping the body adaptation to stress, and acts as a tonic to the entire system. It contains significant amounts of Germanium, a trace mineral which stimulates the immune system and helps promote oxygen flow to cells. The other beneficial ingredients include allantoin (assists in healing wounds), vitamins, minerals, essential amino acids, and the natural plant hormones sitosterol and stigmasterol. These phytochemicals nourish the circulatory and glandular systems. By enhancing the body's immune system, Suma aids in preventing free-radical damage to the body. Japanese researchers discovered that six saponins called pffaffosides A, B, C, D, E and F inhibit tumor cell growth, and are chemicals unique to Suma. In addition, Brazilian researchers have found that Suma is both, safe and effective for altered-immune disorders.

123. Sweet Gum
Sweet gum resin known as ‘copalm balsam’ has been used as an expectorant and mild antiseptic. Its derivative ‘styrax is a constituent of compound tincture of benzoin. Cayce mentioned the resin as a part of compound tonics, mouth wash and inhalant. Additionally, he advised it for the treatment of female sterility in a steam sitz bath. 
 
124. Tansy
Only young, tender leaves are used for salad, soup or tea. Mature leaves contain tanacetin, which is poisonous in large amounts. Traditionally, tansy has been also used as pesticide. Cayce mentioned the plant as a part of an expectorant formula.

125. Thyme
Thyme is known as a general tonic with healing powers and powerful antiseptic. It is said to be useful for bronchial and intestinal problems as well as for anemia.

126. Tobaco
Tobaco is classified as both stimulant and relaxant, with warnings about danger of nicotine. The most common use of the plant in cayce readings was for the salve named TIM (T for tobacco, I for iodine and M for menthol), which was prescribed for hemorrhoids. Cayce cautioned against excessive smoking and said that for most people half a dozen cigarettes a day should not be harmful, but may be even useful. He explained this as a stimulating influence that nicotine has on brain circulation.

127. Uva Ursi
Uva ursi strengthens the urinary system and helps the body eliminate excess water.

128. Valerian
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) is considered a safe, natural sleeping aid. The root soothes rattled nerves and helps with insomnia. It has calming effect on muscles, nerves and blood vessels. Valerian is not habit-forming, nor does it produce hangover-like side effects. 

129. Watermelon
Watermelon assists kidney function due to the high water content. Cayce advised few days on watermelon-only-diet for detoxification and purification, while tea from crushed watermelon seeds was recommended to improve elimination and help with the excess water.

130. White Oak
White oak bark has astringent properties, strengthens blood vessels and tissues and helps with injuries. It also soothes the throat.

131. White Willow
White willow benefits the gastro-intestinal system and kidneys. It works like a mild, natural analgesic, which is gentle on the stomach.

132. Wild Black Cherry
Wild cherry bark is considered to be very useful for lungs, especially as an expectorant. Cayce said that wild cherry bark stimulates throat, bronchi and lungs and all the organs above the diaphragm. He recommended the bark for a variety of conditions ranging from adhesions and edema to rheumatism and debilitation. It was used as a syrup, elixir, tincture, essence and extract.

133. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel has been used by Native Americans to stop bleeding, reduce external inflammation and aid eye infections. The bark and leaves contain tannic and gallic acids, which in local application demonstrate astringent and haemostatic abilities. Cayce used it for massage formulas, cabinet sweats and steam baths. It was advised mostly for relaxation, strains, bruises, scars, pruritus and dermatitis. 

134. Wood Betony
Wood betony is said to help migraine headaches and works well for both children and adults.

135. Wormwood
Wormwood helps elimination of worms and other parasites.

136. Yam
Wild yam is known to nourishes the digestive system and relax muscles and nerves.  It contains phytochemicals, which promote balanced hormone levels in women. 

137. Yellow American Saffron
The herb is also known as safflower and has a long history of being used as dye (petals) as well as for cooking (oil). As a tea it was “good for everybody”, according to Cayce (coats the stomach lining and purifies intestinal tract). It was best to be taken in the morning, and followed with slippery elm water for the rest of the day.  

138. Yellow Dock Root
Yellow dock root is a bitter herb noted for its high iron content. It nourishes the skin, purifies the blood, tones the liver and gallbladder and stimulates bile production.

139. Yerba Santa
Yerba santa is a good expectorant, blood purifier and digestive system strengthener.