Category: L

  • Local

    Pertaining to a small, circumscribed area of the body; not general or systemic. Referring to a separate place. Confined to one part.  

  • Lobelia great (Lobelia siphilitica)

    Lobelia great (Lobelia siphilitica)

    Showy native of the United States with large blue flower spikes. Employed by Indians in combination with mayapple (Podophyllum pekatum) roots to treat venereal disease.  

  • Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)

    Lobelia (Lobelia inflata)

    In small doses lobelia acts as a stimulant, especially on the respiratory system. In larger doses it acts as a nerve depressant, and is useful for asthma and whooping cough. Should not be used without medical supervision as excessive doses can cause severe depression.  

  • Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

    Lily of the Valley (Convallaria majalis)

    Pure white, fragrant flowers and pale green foliage. Strengthens and regulates the heart.  

  • Lantern Plant (Physalis alkekengi)

    Lantern Plant (Physalis alkekengi)

    Edible berries are borne inside fascinating orange Chinese lantern-like calyces. Berries are eaten raw, or in preserves and pies. Recommended for fevers and gout.  

  • Lambs Quarters (Chenopodium album)

    Lambs Quarters (Chenopodium album)

    Common weed, popular as a potherb. Young tender plants are a pleasant spinach substitute when boiled and served with butter. Also served raw in salads. Rich source of vitamins A and C.  

  • Lumbar region

    The five vertebrae in the lower spine that form the largest natural curve in the back. The lower back area. The two parts of the abdomen on each side of the umbilical region. That area of the abdominal surface lateral to the umbilical region, above the iliac region, and below the hypochondriac region.  

  • Lipoproteins

    Packages oi proteins, cholesterol, and triglycerides assembled by the intestine and liver that circulate in the bloodstream. One of their chief functions is to carry cholesterol. Molecular structures comprised of proteins and cholesterol. There are two kinds: (a) high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and (b) low-density lipoprotein (LDL). LDL appears to be associated with atherosclerosis as it…

  • Lovage (Levisticum officinale)

    Lovage (Levisticum officinale)

    A tall plant whose leaves can be eaten or used to make tea. Available at health food stores. Leaves possess excellent flavouring qualities for soups, stews and casseroles. Can replace meat and bones in soups because it gives the impression a complete soup extract has been added. A lofty herbaceous plant belonging to the parsley…

  • Linden (Tilia cordata)

    Linden (Tilia cordata)

    A tree whose flowers, leaves, and wood can be used medicinally to treat colds, high blood pressure, and infections. Available at health food stores. Stately street or lawn trees. Fragrant flowers make a delicious digestive tisane, popular as an after-dinner beverage. Pleasant alternative to aspirin for feverish colds, for it reduces temperature and helps promote…