Mullein is a classic lung herb: its fuzzy leaves (or flowers) are brewed as tea or tincture to soothe coughs and bronchial inflammation. High in mucilage, mullein is a respiratory demulcent and mild expectorant. It can calm irritated airways and help expel mucus. Herbalists note that mullein’s antimicrobial compounds may help prevent complications in bronchitis. Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried leaf per cup of hot water, steeped 10 min. Mullein is generally safe; occasional sedation or nausea can occur at high doses.
Coltsfoot leaves and flowers have been used traditionally for bronchial coughs and “throat issues”. A tea or syrup from coltsfoot is demulcent and anti-spasmodic for bronchitis, easing cough and inflammation. In herbal medicine, coltsfoot was a folk remedy for bronchitis and whooping cough due to its saponins. However, coltsfoot contains toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PA) that can injure the liver. Modern use is cautious: use short courses of fresh leaf tea or a PA-free preparation. Pregnant women and people with liver disease should avoid coltsfoot altogether.
Wild mint (field or water mint) is easy to find in wet forest edges and makes a soothing tea. Peppermint tea relaxes stomach and intestinal muscles, easing cramps and gas. Its menthol vapor also relieves nausea and indigestion. For IBS, peppermint tea or a few drops of tincture can reduce spasms and bloating. Dose: 1 cup of fresh or dried mint leaves per day. Generally safe, but peppermint may worsen heartburn in acid reflux.
Chamomile flowers (often found in sunny clearings) brew a gentle tea for stomach upset. Chamomile’s mild antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory action can soothe indigestion, heartburn, and irritable bowel cramps. It also calms nerves (see Anxiety section). Drink chamomile tea (1–2 tsp flowers per cup) after meals or at bedtime. It is well tolerated, but those allergic to ragweed should avoid it.
Slippery elm is a shade-tolerant forest tree whose inner bark is a potent demulcent. The dried bark is made into a thick tea, gruel or lozenge that coats and heals gut lining. It’s especially indicated for gastritis and peptic ulcers. Research shows slippery elm’s mucilage soothes inflamed stomach and duodenal ulcers. Use 1 tablespoon of powdered inner bark in warm water (drink thrice daily) or apply as a poultice on a sore stomach. Generally safe, but because it coats mucosa, take other meds 1–2 hours apart.
Plantain is a common forest-edge plant whose leaves and seeds offer digestive support. An infusion of plantain leaf is a mild astringent and demulcent, helpful for diarrhea or stomach soreness. A 2011 study found plantain extract promoted healing of stomach ulcers in rats. To use, make tea (1–2 tsp dried leaves) or grind fresh leaves into a poultice for inflamed tongue or mouth ulcers. Plantain seed mucilage (psyllium) can also relieve constipation. Plantain is very safe, though those with ragweed allergies may react.
Meadowsweet grows in damp woodland clearings and has long been used for heartburn and indigestion. Its flowering tops are brewed into a sweet, slightly astringent tea. Rich in salicylates and tannins, meadowsweet calms the stomach and reduces acid irritation. Recent studies confirm meadowsweet infusions protect the gastric lining and help prevent ulcers. Prepare tea with 1 tsp dried flowers per cup. Meadowsweet can cause stomach upset in aspirin-sensitive people, and it should not be used with blood thinners or in pregnancy.
This ferny-leaved herb is found in forest margins and is the source of artemisinin, a potent antimalarial compound. Used in Chinese medicine as Qinghao, it’s now widely studied and used to treat malaria. Artemisinin-based therapies are the gold standard in many countries. Infusions or dried capsules of the herb (NOT whole plant extract) may help prevent or support treatment of malaria—but always under medical guidance. Overuse can lead to resistance. Avoid in pregnancy. Not a substitute for conventional treatment.
A forest tree of the tropics, quassia bark has bitter compounds with antiparasitic properties. Traditionally used for fevers and digestive parasites. Its decoction is sometimes employed as a mosquito repellent. Quassia is extremely bitter and should be used in moderation. Not appropriate without supervision for internal antimalarial use.
This forest-edge shrub or small tree bears white blossoms and red berries. Hawthorn is well-researched for improving cardiac function and lowering blood pressure over time. The berries, leaves, and flowers are used as tea or tincture. Flavonoids and procyanidins support heart tone and circulation. Hawthorn has a gentle, cumulative effect and is safe for long-term use. Combine with garlic or linden for synergistic action. Avoid if taking digoxin or multiple heart meds. Start low and consult a practitioner.
Linden trees (basswood in North America) bloom in summer and produce fragrant, calming flowers. A tea of the flowers is relaxing, mildly hypotensive, and supports healthy circulation. Traditional use includes stress-related high blood pressure. 1–2 cups of linden tea daily are safe for most people. May mildly lower blood pressure.
Though not a forest plant per se, wild garlic or cultivated garlic is sometimes found naturalized in forested settings. Garlic lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, improves circulation, and has mild blood-thinning effects. Studies confirm benefit with aged garlic extract or fresh cloves. Take 1 clove raw daily or use extract as directed. May cause digestive upset; avoid with anticoagulants or before surgery.
This wild herb of clearings and trailsides is astringent, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory. Yarrow powder or poultice is applied to bleeding wounds to stop blood flow and prevent infection. It also encourages tissue healing. Use fresh crushed leaf on cuts or make a salve. Tea or tincture also supports fever or cold (see later). Generally safe, but avoid in pregnancy or if allergic to ragweed family.
This lichen grows on tree branches in moist forests. Usnea contains powerful antibacterial and antifungal acids (usnic acid). Tinctures or salves are used externally on wounds, fungal infections, or boils. Some use it internally for respiratory or urinary infections, though data is limited. Harvest sustainably—only use fallen branches. Avoid internal use in large doses or long term. Topical use is safe and effective.
See Digestive Issues. As a wound herb, crushed plantain leaves soothe bites, stings, and mild infections. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects make it ideal as a field poultice. Use fresh leaves mashed and applied directly, or dry and steep to clean wounds. Very safe and widely available.
This native woodland herb calms the nervous system. Skullcap tea or tincture is used for anxious tension, restlessness, or overstimulation. Studies show mild anxiolytic and sedative effects from flavonoids. Dose: 1–2 tsp dried herb per cup of tea; or 30–60 drops of tincture. Very safe. Can be mildly sedating.
Found in damp woodlands and clearings, valerian root is a strong nervine. It calms nervous anxiety and panic and promotes sleep. The root is made into tea (strong smell) or tincture. Studies confirm its GABA-modulating effects. Dose: 400–900 mg extract before bed, or tea (1 tsp root per cup). Avoid alcohol or operating machinery. Some people feel stimulated instead of sedated.
See Digestive Issues. Chamomile is also anxiolytic and calming to the nerves and digestion alike. A good option for daytime use. Drink 1–3 cups daily.
Though more common in southern woods, passionflower’s aerial parts calm racing thoughts and ease sleep onset. Teas or tinctures made from the flowering vine are safe and effective. Studies show effects similar to mild sedatives. Dose: 1–2 tsp dried herb or 30 drops tincture before bed.
See Anxiety. Best for difficulty falling asleep due to tension or worry. Should be taken 1–2 hours before bed.
Elder grows in moist forests and produces dark berries used to reduce cold and flu duration. Rich in flavonoids and anthocyanins, elderberry syrup has shown antiviral activity against influenza. Use: berries simmered into syrup or decoction (do not eat raw). Safe for adults and children. Berries must be cooked to neutralize toxic compounds.
See Skin Infections. Internally, yarrow tea induces sweating (diaphoretic) and helps break fevers. Traditional use in colds, flu, and early infection. Combine with elderflower and peppermint for a classic cold tea. 1 tsp dried yarrow per cup. Not for pregnancy.
This aromatic mint relative grows wild in open forests. Leaves and flowers are brewed for colds, congestion, and sore throat. Contains thymol, which is antimicrobial. Use as tea or steam inhalation. One of the best herbal “decongestants.”
Pine needles contain vitamin C and volatile oils that ease congestion. Make a tea with fresh needles (steeped, not boiled) for sore throat, cough, and mild immune support. Avoid during pregnancy. Pitch (sap) can be made into a chest rub or cough syrup.
