This is the second edition of Dr. Christopher’s top ten herbs. 

Emmenogogue: These are female corrective herbs that provoke, stimulate, and promote the menstrual flow.

     Partridge Berry: (Mitchella repens; RUBIACEAE)

     Part used: Herb or vine

This herb is used as a uterine tonic during pregnancy to help make a safe and easy pregnancy. It regulates the female organs and helps with painful menstruation. It is a valuable diuretic, tonic and alterative.

Expectorant and Demulcent: These herbs facilitate expectoration of mucus and possess soothing, mucilaginous and inflammation-relieving properties.

     Comfrey: (Symphitum officinale; BORAGINACEAE)

     Part used: Root and leaves

Comfrey is used to heal the respiratory system, hemorrhage of the lungs, as a tonic and vulnerary (heals wounds). Dr. Shook wrote the following about comfrey: “It does not seem to matter much which part of the body is broken, either internally or externally; comfrey will heal it quickly. It is a great cell proliferant. It grows new flesh and bone alike, stops hemorrhage, and is wonderful for coughs, soothing and healing the inflamed tissues in a most remarkable manner.”

Nervine and Antispasmodics: Herbs used to heal and soothe the nerves and to calm spasms, cramps and coughing.

     Lobelia: (Lobelia inflata; LOBELIACEAE)

     Part used: Herb and seeds (seeds are much stronger)

Lobelia is one of the greatest herbs ever given to the world according to Dr. Christopher. He dedicated a whole chapter in his book School of Natural Healing to this herb. He quotes Dr. Thompson saying, “There is no vegetable which the earth produces more harmless in its effect on the human system, and none more powerful in removing disease and promoting health than lobelia.”  It is used to relax the entire nervous system, and is considered the best antispasmodic herb. 

Stimulant: These herbs increase the power of the pulse and carry blood to all parts of the body, equalizing and restoring the circulation in all parts.

     Cayenne: (Capsicum frutescens; C. minimum)  

      Part used: fruit

Cayenne is a great herb for the circulatory system, it is the purest and most certain stimulant. It equalizes circulation, regulates blood pressure. It activates the body and is a carrier and accentuator when combined with other herbs. This is a first aid herb because it is used to stop bleeding, and has been known to stop heart attacks.

Tonic: These herbs increase tone throughout the entire system and give increased vigor, energy, and strength, stimulating assimilation of nutrients.

      White Poplar: (Populus tremuloides; SALICACEAE)

      Part used: Inner bark, leaves, buds

Also known as Quaking Aspen, this herb has many wonderful qualities. It helps strengthen the urinary tract, aids digestion, helps with diarrhea and fevers, and it is one of the best tonics for old age. Externally it can be used for skin issues such as eczema, sun burns, gangrene and cancer.

We hope you have enjoyed learning about some of Dr. Christopeh’s favorite herbs. If you want to learn more about herbs and their medicinal value, consider continuing your education through the School of Natural Healing which he founded in 1953. 

Jo Francks is a Master Herbalist working at the School of Natural Healing.