RH Botany, Plant Identification & Materia Medica 3

Question 1

Which taxonomic rank falls directly between family and species in the Linnaean classification system?

Accepted Answer

Genus

Answer

The hierarchy from broad to specific is: Kingdom → Phylum → Class → Order → Family → Genus → Species.

Question 2

Glycyrrhiza glabra root is contraindicated in patients with hypertension primarily due to its content of:

Accepted Answer

Glycyrrhizin, which causes sodium retention and potassium loss

Answer

Glycyrrhizin inhibits 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase, causing a pseudoaldosterone effect with sodium retention, potassium loss, and elevated blood pressure.

Question 3

The term 'diaphoretic' describes herbs that:

Accepted Answer

Induce perspiration to support fever management

Answer

Diaphoretics promote sweating, which can help reduce fever and support elimination through the skin; elderflower and yarrow are classic examples.

Question 4

Which structural feature of Echinacea purpurea distinguishes it from E. angustifolia in field identification?

Accepted Answer

Broader, ovate leaves vs. narrow lanceolate leaves

Answer

E. purpurea has broad ovate leaves, while E. angustifolia has narrow lanceolate leaves; both have purple ray florets but differ significantly in leaf morphology.

Question 5

Silymarin, the primary active constituent of Silybum marianum, is classified as a:

Accepted Answer

Flavonolignan complex

Answer

Silymarin is a mixture of flavonolignans (silybin, silydianin, silychristin) found in milk thistle seeds, known for hepatoprotective activity.

(RH) Registered Herbalist Practice Test

(RH) Registered Herbalist Practice Test

RH Botany, Plant Identification & Materia Medica 3