Herbal Actions Explained: Adaptogens, Nervines, Bitters and the Rest

What herbalists mean by adaptogen, nervine, bitter, demulcent, astringent, immunomodulator and cardiotonic — the six action classes, their proposed mechanisms, and where the evidence actually sits.

Herbal information on this site is educational and is not medical advice. Talk with a qualified healthcare professional before using herbs for a medical condition, pregnancy, medication interactions, or ongoing symptoms.