Herbalism Knowledge Check 5 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which herb is traditionally used as a 'galactagogue' to support breast milk production in nursing mothers?
- Rosemary
- Fenugreek (Correct answer)
- Thyme
- Oregano
Correct answer: Fenugreek
Fenugreek seeds are one of the most commonly used galactagogues, traditionally used to increase milk supply in lactating women.
Question 2: What is the primary reason herbalists recommend using organic or wildcrafted herbs over conventionally grown ones?
- Organic herbs always have more flavor
- To avoid pesticide residues and support higher phytochemical content (Correct answer)
- Conventional herbs are illegal in most states
- Organic herbs are always cheaper
Correct answer: To avoid pesticide residues and support higher phytochemical content
Pesticide residues can be harmful and some research suggests plants grown without pesticides may produce higher levels of protective phytochemicals.
Question 3: Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) should be used cautiously by individuals with which condition?
- Low blood pressure
- Hypothyroidism
- Hypertension (Correct answer)
- Anemia
Correct answer: Hypertension
Glycyrrhizin in licorice root can cause sodium retention and potassium loss, potentially raising blood pressure with prolonged use.
Question 4: Which extraction method is most appropriate for creating a glycerite (glycerin-based herbal extract)?
- Using 80–90% ethanol alcohol
- Macerating plant material in food-grade vegetable glycerin (Correct answer)
- Steam distillation
- Cold-pressing
Correct answer: Macerating plant material in food-grade vegetable glycerin
Glycerites are made by macerating plant material in vegetable glycerin, providing an alcohol-free alternative suitable for children or those avoiding alcohol.
Question 5: What herbal action describes an herb that promotes sweating to help reduce fever and expel toxins?
- Diaphoretic (Correct answer)
- Diuretic
- Expectorant
- Nervine
Correct answer: Diaphoretic
Diaphoretic herbs like elderflower, yarrow, and peppermint stimulate perspiration, which can help break fevers and cool the body.
Question 6: In herbal medicine, what distinguishes a 'nervine tonic' from a 'nervine relaxant'?
- Nervine tonics are only used for sleep; relaxants are used for anxiety
- Nervine tonics strengthen and nourish the nervous system long-term; relaxants calm acute tension (Correct answer)
- Nervine tonics are always stimulating; relaxants always sedate
- There is no meaningful distinction between the two
Correct answer: Nervine tonics strengthen and nourish the nervous system long-term; relaxants calm acute tension
Nervine tonics like oat straw build nervous system resilience over time, while nervine relaxants like passionflower address acute states of anxiety or tension.
Question 7: Which of the following is an example of an herb with significant photosensitizing potential when applied topically?
- Lavender
- Calendula
- Bergamot (Citrus bergamia) (Correct answer)
- Chamomile
Correct answer: Bergamot (Citrus bergamia)
Bergamot essential oil contains furanocoumarins (especially bergapten) that cause photosensitivity reactions when skin is exposed to UV light after application.
Herbalism Knowledge Check 5
Which herb is traditionally used as a 'galactagogue' to support breast milk production in nursing mothers?