Medicinal Herbs Database

Japanese toxic look-alike of star anise; used in Buddhist ceremonies; causes severe neurotoxicity if consumed.

The Himalayan valerian used in Ayurveda and Unani medicine as a potent sedative and antispasmodic; considered superior to European valerian in some traditions.

Himalayan aromatic root used in Ayurveda for nervous conditions; same species as biblical spikenard; calming and anti-epileptic.

Wetland rush whose pith is used in TCM and Japanese Kampo to clear heat, calm the mind, and promote urination.

Highest quality saffron from Pampore Kashmir used in Unani medicine for mood, cognition, and anti-inflammatory conditions.

Kava is a plant native to the Pacific Islands where it has been consumed ceremonially for over 3,000 years. It is widely used for its anxiolytic and relaxant properties, and clinical evidence supports its effectiveness for generalized anxiety. Concerns about liver toxicity led to bans in some countries, though quality-controlled products appear safe.

Premium Kashmiri-grown saffron used in Ayurveda for skin, mood, and reproductive health.

A European ornamental tree; all parts highly toxic; cytisine research for smoking cessation.

Parent species of cultivated lettuce with mild sedative properties similar to L. virosa.

Ancient European nervine used since Roman times for headache, anxiety, digestive bitters, and nervous system support.

Ornamental legume with fragrant flowers; seeds toxic but flower fragrance used in aromatherapy.

Mediterranean lavender species with distinctive dentate leaves; used in North African folk medicine.

Natural hybrid between true and spike lavender, most commercially cultivated lavender with camphor-rich oil.

Lavender is an aromatic herb from the mint family, cultivated for over 2,500 years. It is widely used in aromatherapy for its calming effects and has demonstrated anxiolytic and sedative properties in clinical studies. The essential oil and dried flowers are the primary medicinal forms.

Mediterranean lavender species used in traditional medicine since ancient Greek times for headaches, epilepsy, and respiratory conditions. Slightly different chemistry from Lavandula angustifolia.