Glossary of Medical Terms – Y

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Yarrow

Exhibits anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, astringent, bitter, diaphoretic, diuretic, hepatic and hypotensive properties. Standard remedy for helping the body to deal with fevers. Stimulates digestion and tones blood vessels. Considered to be a specific in thrombotic conditions associated with hypertension

Yellow Bile

One of the four humors of ancient and medieval physiology that was believed to be secreted by the liver and to cause irascibility

Yellow Dock

Generally considered to be mildly effective as a laxative. Ground up and brewed, Yellow Dock root makes a bitter sweet tea that has been used by herbalists in the treatment of a variety of disorders, mainly to treat enlarged liver and to purify the blood. Side effects of excess consumption of yellow dock include excessive urination, nausea and diarrhea

Yellow Fever

An acute viral disease transmitted to man by mosquitoes and characterized by fever, icterus, bradycardia, proteinuria and a bleeding tendency. A RNA virus that multiplies in the cytoplasm of cells; transmitted by arthropods

Yellow Gentian

Also called Bitter root, Bitterwort, Gentian Root, and Pale Gentian. Used for catarrhal gastritis with diarrhea, heartburn, indigestion, stomachache, and vomiting. Excellent for improving appetite and digestion, and strengthening the activity of the stomach

Yellow Root

Hydrastis

Yerba Santa

Eriodictyon Californicum–Used as a treatment for asthma, bronchial congestion, and hayfever. Quiets nagging coughs, relieves congestion due to allergies, and helps clear the chest of phlegm

Yohimbe Bark

Effective in elevating mood and reducing depression and anxiety. Stimulates sexual desire and performance. Studies have also recently found evidence that Yohimbe may aid in weight loss by suppressing the body’s ability to store fat. Side effects, can include sweating, nausea and vomiting. Patients taking MAO inhibitors such as antidepressants , tranquilizers, or blood pressure medications should not take Yohimbe or any compounds containing yohimbine. Use of Yohimbe is also contraindicated for pregnant women as well as persons with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or ulcers. Persons with a history of psychoses should also avoid Yohimbe as it has been known to trigger new episodes of psychic reaction

yr

Year

Yucca

Yucca Aloifolia. Y. Brevifolia. Y. Glauca. Y. Whipplei. There are about forty species of Yucca that grow in the warmer parts of North America and few are present in colder climates. Rich in steroid like saponins that elevate the body’s production of cortisone, which may explain this herbs reported ability to aid in managing arthritic pains

© Vikki Shaw