Glossary

🌿 Glossary of Therapeutic Actions of Essential Oils & Botanicals

Below is a comprehensive list of terms commonly used in aromatherapy, herbalism, and natural health. These terms describe the functions and therapeutic actions of essential oils, herbs, and plant-based remedies.

A

• Adaptogen – Enhances the body’s ability to handle stress and maintain balance.

• Alterative – Gradually improves overall health by supporting detoxification and nutrition.

• Analgesic – Helps relieve or numb pain.

• Antibacterial – Inhibits or kills harmful bacteria.

• Anticoagulant – Prevents blood from clotting.

• Antidiarrhoeic – Helps reduce or relieve diarrhea.

• Antifungal – Inhibits the growth of fungi.

• Anti-inflammatory – Reduces inflammation and swelling.

• Antipyretic – Helps reduce fever (from “pyre” meaning fire).

• Antirheumatic – Eases symptoms of rheumatism such as joint pain and swelling.

• Antiseptic – Destroys or prevents the growth of microorganisms.

• Antispasmodic – Relieves muscle spasms and cramps.

• Antiviral – Inhibits or slows down the growth of viruses.

• Aphrodisiac – Stimulates or enhances sexual desire.

• Astringent – Contracts tissues and reduces secretions.

C

• Calmative – Mildly sedating or calming.

• Carminative – Relieves flatulence and soothes the digestive tract.

• Cephalic – Benefits the head; may improve clarity or cognitive function.

• Cordial – A stimulating tonic that warms and invigorates the system.

D–E

• Decongestant – Clears congestion from respiratory passages.

• Demulcent – Soothes and protects irritated or inflamed tissue.

• Diaphoretic – Promotes perspiration, aiding in detoxification.

• Digestive – Supports digestion and gastrointestinal comfort.

• Diuretic – Promotes urination to support detox and fluid balance.

• Emetic – Induces vomiting (used rarely and with caution).

• Emmenagogue – Stimulates and regulates menstrual flow.

• Emollient – Moisturizes and softens the skin.

• Estrogenic – Mimics estrogenic activity in the body.

• Expectorant – Helps clear mucus from the lungs and respiratory tract.

F–H

• Febrifuge – Helps reduce or break a fever.

• Fixative – Stabilizes or prolongs fragrance in blends and perfumes.

• Hemostatic – Helps stop internal or external bleeding.

• Hypotensor – Assists in lowering high blood pressure.

L–N

• Laxative – Promotes gentle bowel movements.

• Nervine – Calms the nervous system; may be stimulating or sedative depending on the plant.

P–R

• Parasiticide – Kills or repels parasites, especially those affecting the skin.

• Purgative – Strongly stimulates bowel evacuation (more intense than a laxative).

• Relaxant – Relieves muscular or nervous tension.

• Rubefacient – Increases blood flow to the skin and may cause mild irritation or redness.

S

• Sedative – Reduces nervous activity to promote calm and relaxation.

• Stimulant – Increases alertness, energy, or organ function.

• Stomachic – Supports and tones the stomach for improved digestion.

• Sudorific – Promotes sweating, often used in detox or fever support.

V–Z

• Vasoconstrictor – Narrows blood vessels and may raise blood pressure.

• Vasodilator – Expands blood vessels and improves circulation.

• Vermifuge – Expels intestinal worms or parasites.

💡 How to Use This Glossary

Use this reference to better understand essential oil labels, blog content, or when customizing your own natural remedies. Each term reflects a long tradition of herbal and aromatherapeutic use, though effects can vary by individual.

This content is for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products or descriptions listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.