Question 1

Adaptogen

Accepted Answer

A plant or herb traditionally believed to help the body adapt to everyday physical and mental stress. The term is widely used in herbal medicine, although scientific research is still evolving.

Question 2

Antioxidant

Accepted Answer

A naturally occurring compound that helps protect cells from oxidative stress caused by unstable molecules known as free radicals.

Question 3

Botanical Name

Accepted Answer

The scientific name of a plant, written in Latin, that identifies its exact species. For example, Curcuma longa is the botanical name for turmeric.

Question 4

Capsule

Accepted Answer

A common form of herbal supplement in which powdered herbs or extracts are enclosed in a gelatin or plant-based shell.

Question 5

Clinical Study

Accepted Answer

A research study involving human participants that evaluates the safety or potential effects of a food, herb, supplement, or medical treatment.

Question 6

Decoction

Accepted Answer

A method of preparing herbs by simmering tougher plant materials, such as roots, bark, or seeds, in water.

Question 7

Dietary Supplement

Accepted Answer

A product intended to supplement the diet. Supplements may contain herbs, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, or other naturally occurring substances.

Question 8

Essential Oil

Accepted Answer

A concentrated plant extract that contains aromatic compounds. Essential oils are commonly used in aromatherapy and are generally intended for external use unless specifically directed by a qualified professional.

Question 9

Extract

Accepted Answer

A concentrated preparation made by removing beneficial compounds from a plant using water, alcohol, or other suitable solvents.

Question 10

Flavonoids

Accepted Answer

Naturally occurring plant compounds found in many fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers. They are widely studied for their antioxidant properties.

Question 11

Free Radicals

Accepted Answer

Unstable molecules naturally produced in the body that can contribute to oxidative stress when present in excess.

Question 12

Herbal Tea

Accepted Answer

A beverage prepared by steeping herbs, flowers, leaves, seeds, or roots in hot water. Herbal teas are naturally caffeine-free unless they contain caffeinated plants such as green tea.

Question 13

Infusion

Accepted Answer

A preparation made by pouring hot water over delicate plant materials, such as leaves or flowers, and allowing them to steep.

Question 14

Phytochemicals

Accepted Answer

Natural compounds produced by plants that contribute to their color, aroma, flavor, and biological activity.

Question 15

Polyphenols

Accepted Answer

A large group of naturally occurring plant compounds that have been widely researched for their antioxidant activity.

Question 16

Root

Accepted Answer

The underground portion of a plant commonly used in herbal preparations. Examples include ginger, burdock root, and licorice root.

Question 17

Standardized Extract

Accepted Answer

An herbal extract manufactured to contain a consistent amount of one or more active compounds.

Question 18

Tincture

Accepted Answer

A concentrated liquid herbal preparation made by extracting plant compounds, often using alcohol or glycerin.

Question 19

Traditional Use

Accepted Answer

The historical use of a plant within traditional healing systems or cultural practices. Traditional use does not necessarily indicate that an herb has been proven effective through modern scientific research.

Question 20

Wellness

Accepted Answer

A broad concept that refers to maintaining overall physical, mental, and emotional well-being through healthy lifestyle choices.

Glossary of Herbal Terms

Welcome to the Herbal Glossary