therapeutic actions. Some are anti-spasmodic, others act as diuretics, and still
others affect circulation and heart action (cardiac glycosides).
Phenols
Phenols are also known as polyphenols, phenolic compounds and acids.
They have an aromatic ring and have one or more hydroxyl groups. There
are over eight thousand recognized phenols. They are generally broken down
into flavonoids, phenylpropanoids, anthones, stilbenoids and quinones. Their
actions within plants and human tissues vary greatly. They serve as:
antioxidants, anti-viral compounds, anti-inflammatory compounds, anti-
carcinogens, anti-spasmodics and diuretics, and have anti-microbial and tonic
qualities.
Salts
Salts are the inorganic compounds of your body. They play a vital role in the
function of cells and are vital for life to exist. The primary salts include
chlorides, carbonates, bicarbonates, phosphates and sulfates. Plants are full of
various mineral salts such as calcium phosphate, sodium chloride, and others.
Their roles in the human body include:
maintenance of proper water levels
maintenance of osmotic pressure conditions for proper osmosis
regulation of blood volume
keeping the acid/alkaline (base) balanced
the bases for essential components or constituents of various tissues, like
bones and teeth
proper coagulation of blood
essential to the performance of nerve and muscle tissue
acting as co-enzyme factors and activators
effecting cellular transport and cell wall permeability
essential to certain hormone functionsSaponins
These compounds have several actions in your body. They are considered
anti-inflammatory and have expectorant actions. They are also part of the
synthesis of adrenal gland steroids. Licorice Root and Devils Claw are herbs
that have high amounts of saponins.