Herbs 201 ~ Mod 6, Option 1 ~ Effects

Describe the system of the body with which diaphoretic herbs are associated. Explain how diaphoretic herbs effect the body.

Diaphoretic herbs help induce perspiration in the skin of the body, allowing it to release toxins and waste through it's pores. If the pores are clogged the bloodstream ends up getting backup with all these toxins and waste, which can cause the whole system to work a lot harder, which can cause problems.

There are two main classes of diaphoretic herbs, depending on the conditions.

If the client's skin is cold and they have a weak pulse you will want to stimulate blood flow by using a stimulating diaphoretic herb like say, Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) or Sage (Salvia officinalis).

If they have hot, dry skin and a steady normal pulse you will want to use a relaxing diaphoretic like say, Chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile) or Yarrow (Achillea millefolium).

Stimulating diaphoretic herbs stimulate the local nerves of the sudoriferos glands, which are small tube like pocket located just beneath the skin (in the subcutaneous tissue). This causes you to heat up and increase perspiration.

Relaxing diaphoretic herbs stimulate the periphery sensory nerves that relax and dilate the superficial capillaries and vessels. This increases blood flow which causes an increase in perspiration.

Source Cited
Website:

ACHS; Her 201, Mod 6, Intro: Diaphoretic Herbs, http://www.achs.edu, 07/23/10,