The different active components or constituents in herbs can vary greatly depending on the herb used and the part of the plant (leaves, flowers, roots, etc.). Many herbs have a complex chemical composition, and they may contain a range of bioactive compounds, such as:
Alkaloids. Alkaloids are organic compounds that can have a wide variety of biological effects, such as pain-relieving, sedative, or stimulating properties. Alkaloids are common to many plants and form the basis of many modern medicines, such as morphine, atropine, and codeine. Alkaloids also include morphine and nicotine.
Bitters: Bitters, i.e., bitter principles, are primarily used as digestive aids because they tend to stimulate the secretion of gastric juices. However, some are also known for calming or antimicrobial properties.
Flavonoids and bioflavonoids: Flavonoids are polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties. They can help protect cells from damage caused by free-radical stress. Herbs containing flavonoid-like components are primarily used for diuretic, antispasmodic, and anti-inflammatory purposes. For this reason, they are especially useful in the treatment and prevention of colic in horses.
Phenolic compounds: Phenolic compounds are a broad group of compounds that contain a phenolic ring structure. They can act as antioxidants, and they may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Glycosides: Some herbs contain very potent glycosides. For example, foxglove contains digoxin, which is a component of digitalis, a very powerful cardiac medication, and in large doses it can cause death by inducing heart spasms.
Mucilage: The mucilaginous substances found in various herbs are known for their ability to form gel-like substances in the digestive tract. They are favored for their ability to soothe inflamed intestinal tissue and to provide mild laxative effects.
Saponins: Various herbs contain steroid-like saponins that are used as blood tonics and to promote wound healing (for example, licorice root contains a cortisone-like saponin).
Tannins: Herbal tannins function primarily as astringents. Although highly specific constituents in individual herbs have been found to produce particular medicinal effects, the medicinal action of most herbs is based not only on the primary chemical component, but also on secondary components that are not as easy to identify. Herbal researchers believe that for herbs to deliver their greatest effects, they should be given as whole herbs, so that they provide an effective dose of both primary and secondary constituents.
Terpenes: Terpenes are aromatic compounds that give herbs their characteristic scent and flavor. They may also have therapeutic effects, such as anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Polysaccharides: Polysaccharides are carbohydrates that can be important for immune system function and health. They are found in many herb and mushroom species.
In addition to these, herbs may contain many other bioactive compounds with various health effects. It is important to note that the effects of herbs may be based on the combined action of many of these compounds, and the effect of a single constituent cannot always be isolated. In addition, the effects of herbs can vary from one individual to another and depend on many factors, such as dosage, preparation method, and how they are used.
