Herbalism Herbal Pharmacology & Plant Constituents 2

Question 1

Mucilaginous herbs like marshmallow root (Althaea officinalis) and slippery elm work by:

Accepted Answer

Forming a protective polysaccharide coating over irritated mucous membranes

Answer

Stimulating mucus gland secretion in the respiratory tract

Answer

Breaking up and thinning existing mucus congestion

Answer

Inhibiting inflammatory prostaglandin synthesis

Question 2

Hypericin, found in St. John's Wort (Hypericum perforatum), is classified chemically as:

Accepted Answer

A naphthodianthrone polycyclic phenolic compound

Answer

An isoquinoline alkaloid

Answer

A triterpenoid saponin

Answer

A monoterpene volatile oil

Question 3

Anthraquinone glycosides found in senna, cascara sagrada, and rhubarb root primarily act as:

Accepted Answer

Stimulant laxatives that promote peristalsis in the colon

Answer

Bulk-forming diuretics that increase urinary output

Answer

Broad-spectrum antimicrobials targeting intestinal pathogens

Answer

Anti-inflammatory agents reducing intestinal inflammation

Question 4

Rosmarinic acid, found in rosemary, lemon balm, and sage, is best described as a:

Accepted Answer

Phenolic acid with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties

Answer

Monoterpene with primary sedative and anxiolytic properties

Answer

Pyrrolizidine alkaloid with hepatotoxic potential

Answer

Polysaccharide that stimulates immune function

Question 5

Polysaccharides in immunomodulatory herbs like echinacea and astragalus primarily work by:

Accepted Answer

Stimulating and modulating macrophages, natural killer cells, and immune signaling

Answer

Directly killing bacteria and viruses through lysis

Answer

Suppressing overactive immune responses in autoimmune conditions

Answer

Raising cortisol and adrenal hormone levels

Question 6

Which constituent class gives turmeric its bright yellow color and is primarily responsible for its anti-inflammatory activity?

Accepted Answer

Curcuminoids

Answer

Isoquinoline alkaloids

Answer

Hydrolyzable tannins

Answer

Iridoid glycosides

Question 7

Iridoids found in herbs such as valerian, devil's claw, and gentian are classified within which chemical family?

Accepted Answer

Cyclopentanoid monoterpenoid compounds

Answer

Nitrogen-containing alkaloids derived from amino acids

Answer

Ester-linked phenolic acids

Answer

Long-chain saturated fatty acids