A, B, C, .... X, Y, Z

The two-stemmed hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata) is a natural source of beneficial substances. The flowers, leaves and to a lesser extent the berries of the hawthorn contain a rich variety of components, including flavonoids, procyanidins, vitamin C, tannins, glycosides and antioxidants. These substances have beneficial effects on the heart and contribute to a healthy lifestyle. Hawthorn is known for its calming properties and supports natural, deep sleep.

Heartwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is a fragrant perennial plant that belongs to the Lamiaceae family. Originating in Central Asia, this plant has spread throughout the world.
The leaves are suitable for seasoning pea and lentil soup, and were also used in the past to brew beer. This plant has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties for heart problems and muscle cramps.
The plant grows to a height of 30-90 cm and forms rhizomes and square stems with scattered hairs. The leaves, which are medium green in color, have three to seven lobes and are downy hairy on the underside.

Herb Royal (Artemisia abrotanum) is a bushy shrub belonging to the composite family. The plant is originally native to southern Europe, but has been introduced to much more northern areas of Europe.
Historically, the Germanic people used Herb Royal to ward off druids and witches. The Romans made the perfume Abrotenum from it. In addition to its use as a perfume, lemon herb was also used to clean and deodorize wounds, treat cramps and asthma, and as a soothing balm.

The Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is traditionally used in hot and cold drinks, as a flavoring and coloring agent in the food industry, and as a herbal remedy for its ability to reduce fatigue and promote cardiovascular health.
Hibiscus sabdariffa L. is an annual shrub that can grow more than two meters high. The shrub usually has smooth, red stems and cream or pale yellow flowers that turn pink when they wilt at the end of the day. At that time, a characteristic red calyx grows, which is fleshy, crispy and juicy. This calyx turns brown and bursts open when it is dry and grown. The calyx, stems and leaves have a sour taste reminiscent of cranberries.

Epimedium, commonly known as elf flower, is a genus of about 25 species of perennial plants belonging to the barberry family (Berberidaceae). These enchanting plants are native to southern Europe and parts of Asia, including central, southern and eastern Asia.
Interestingly, many species of Epimedium are said to have aphrodisiac properties. According to an ancient Chinese legend, this remarkable effect was discovered by a goat herder, who noticed that his animals became noticeably more active after eating these plants. This led to the plant being given the name 'yin yang huo' in China, which literally translates as 'Horny Goat Herb'.

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is an herb with valuable essential oils.
This striking shrub reaches a height of 30 to 60 cm and has a woody base with ascending branches. The dark green lanceolate leaves are about 2 to 2.5 cm long. During the flowering period, from July to September, hyssop produces small blue/lilac-like lipped flowers that grow in whorls, although some specimens may be white or pink.

Gynostemma pentaphyllum, also known as 'jiaogulan', is a climbing plant naturally occurring in Japan, southeastern China and Thailand. In the Netherlands this plant is known as 'immortality herb' or 'eternal life herb'. It has a prominent place in traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Rich in antioxidants, this herb supports normal liver function and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels. It also has benefits for the heart, blood vessels and cholesterol levels.

Cat's whisker (Orthosiphon aristatus), also known as Kumis Kutjing, has played an important role in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries due to its beneficial properties in treating urinary tract infections.
This plant belongs to the Lamiaceae family and thrives mainly in tropical and subtropical regions, preferring locations such as wetlands, along rivers and swamps, especially in Southeast Asia, especially Malaysia and Java. The name "cat's whisker" is derived from the white or lilac flowers with striking, thread-like stamens, sometimes up to 3 cm long.

Lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris) is a genus of about a thousand species of perennial herbaceous and shrubby plants belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is mainly found in Europe and Asia, with some species in the mountainous areas of Africa, North and South America. Lady's mantles thrive in disturbed and usually damp places, such as forest edges, wet grasslands and roadsides.

Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is a perennial plant from the Lamiaceae family known for its lemony scent. This plant grows mainly in southern Europe, but can be easily propagated in temperate regions such as the Netherlands and Belgium, as it survives in winter via rhizomes. The plant reaches a height of about 0.5 meters.
Lemon balm has a long history; The plant was already known to various peoples 2000 years ago. The Arabs probably brought the plant to Europe via Spain, after which monasteries initially engaged in its cultivation. Ancient scriptures state that lemon balm leaves warm the stomach, aid digestion, dispel gloom and promote cheerful dreams. The leaves are often used in dishes, tea, oil or creams.

Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) is a versatile herb that plays an important role in Ayurvedic medicine. It is known for its beneficial effects on digestion and maintaining flexible joints, while also soothing the respiratory tract.
This plant is grown in various parts of the world, including Europe, Asia and the Middle East. It is a hardy plant that even thrives in the Netherlands. However, it takes three to four years before the roots can be harvested.
In addition to the roots, the leaves can also be used, for example to make tea. Licorice is widely used in foods and pharmaceuticals because of its sweet taste and other ingredients.

The lime tree (Tilia) is native to the Benelux and is known for its remarkable lifespan, which can easily exceed 1000 years. This majestic tree can reach a height of 20 to 30 meters, depending on its growing conditions. The Latin name for the lime tree is Tilia.
Although the lime tree is widespread in Europe, it is not found in the northernmost and southernmost parts of the continent. Outside Europe, the lime is also found in parts of Asia, but to a much lesser extent.
The tree blooms in the months of June and July. The lime blossom produces a lot of honey, and the flowers can be used to make herbal tea.

The long sundew (Drosera longifolia) is a perennial carnivorous plant belonging to the sundew family (Droseraceae).
The plant grows to a height of 5-20 cm and forms a rosette of leaves. The leaves have long stems and are upright, oblong to lanceolate, with the widest point above the center. They are covered with numerous red, sticky tentacles containing glandular tissue. These tentacles catch small insects such as Simuliidae. Once an insect touches the tentacles, the leaf coils around the insect and secretes digestive enzymes. The released nutrients, including nitrogen, are absorbed by the plant.

Lungwort, belonging to the genus Pulmonaria in the rough-leaved family (Boraginaceae), owes its botanical name to the Latin word 'pulmo', which means 'lung'. This is because of the similarity that was seen between the drawing on the leaves of the spotted lungwort and (diseased) human lungs. According to the signature theory, the plant was previously used as a remedy for lung diseases because of this similarity. The Dutch name 'pulmonary herb' is directly derived from the botanical name, and this name also occurs in several other Western European languages.

Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis) belongs to the mallow family (Malvaceae) and has been spread worldwide by human activity, especially to areas with suitable soil, humidity and climate.
The starch in the carrot, mixed with proteinaceous substances, was formerly used in making marshmallows and bacon. The leaves can be eaten cooked and the flowers can be used raw in salads.
In the medicinal field, marshmallow root has a soothing effect on the respiratory tract (source WHO) and is used in cough syrups.

The marigold (Calendula officinalis) is a member of the composite family (Compositae or Asteraceae) and is often grown in ornamental gardens. This plant originally comes from Southern Europe.
It is an annual plant that usually bears orange, but sometimes yellow flowers. The marigold usually grows to a height of 30-45 cm and has blunt leaves. Its flowering period extends from May to November, while the fruits are often curved and boat-shaped.
Both fresh and dried flowers can be used in soups, and they also act as a natural coloring for cheese, butter and other foods. Historically, the petals were even used to imitate saffron.

The meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is a perennial plant belonging to the rose family (Rosaceae). It is an erect plant that can reach a height of 0.6 to 2 meters. The flowers of the meadowsweet are numerous and cream-colored, with a width of 0.4 to 1 cm and each consisting of five petals, which have a strong almond scent. The leaves are pinnately compound, with a large top leaflet that is palmately split.
In the past, meadowsweet was used as a remedy for biliary and kidney diseases, as well as for gout and nerve pain. The dried leaves and flowers were used to make tea, which was given for fever. 

Milk thistle (Silybum marianum), also known as milk thistle or milk thistle, is a spiny plant native to the Mediterranean region, but which also grows in our area. It belongs to the composite family. Milk thistle has been used for centuries as a natural remedy to support liver and bile function. It can be used as part of a cleansing regimen to assist the liver in the detoxification process.

Mistletoe (Viscum album) is an evergreen plant belonging to the sandalwood family, known by various names such as mistletoe, mistletoe, or birdlime. Mistletoe naturally occurs in Europe, Northwest Africa, West and Central Asia. It is a semi-parasite that thrives in the wild on numerous host species.
Over the centuries, mistletoe has become intertwined with numerous legends and symbolic meanings. To the Druids, the mistletoe of an oak tree was sacred and associated with ushering in the new year, symbolic of fertility and good luck. In Norse mythology, mistletoe symbolizes peace and love, with people who meet under it kissing each other as a sign of this peace and love.

Moringa oleifera, also known as the 'tree of life', thrives in Africa and Asia and is known for its rich nutritional value. The tree is a treasure trove of over dozens of nutrients, including as many as 47 antioxidants. With minerals, proteins, vitamins, beta-carotene, amino acids and various phenols in abundance, the leaves of the moringa are the true storehouse of nutritional value.
For centuries, Asian and African cultures have recognized the benefits of moringa oleifera. The tree has become an integral part of their daily diets due to its versatile uses and nutritional value. Due to its abundant benefits, moringa oleifera is often affectionately called 'the tree of life'.

The mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is a plant from the composite family (Asteraceae), related to wormwood. This weakly aromatic plant has leaves that have white felt-like hairs on the underside. Mugwort is widespread in Belgium and the Netherlands, often found on wasteland and along roads. The plant thrives best in sandy soil. The stem is 60–120 cm long and often shows a reddish color.
In ancient times, the Romans put mugwort in their footwear to relieve fatigue and pain. In central Mongolia, where the population used to suffer from clouds of large mosquitoes (the size of small shrimps), the Mongolian mugwort (with its characteristic bluish, hairy, succulent leaves) was used to repel these mosquitoes in the damp lawns.

The nettle (Urtica dioica) is a powerful and versatile plant that occurs in many places, despite its irritating property to the touch. Known for its culinary uses, such as nettle soup and tea, the nettle is also known for its health benefits.
Nettle leaf is a traditional herbal medicine with various applications. It contributes to healthy skin, gives shine to the hair and strengthens the nails. In addition, it can help soothe the respiratory tract and maintain proper fluid balance. It also provides support to the heart and blood vessels.

Nettle (Urtica dioica) is a powerful and versatile plant that can be used in many ways. Although the plant stings when touched, it is best known for its valuable properties. Nettle is not only loved in the kitchen (think of nettle soup or tea), but also because of its many benefits for humans.
This wild plant, native to Africa and Asia and known by the Latin name Urtica dioica, has been used for centuries. In herbal medicine, not only the dried leaves, but also the dried roots are valued. Nettle root is used to support good prostate function.

Usnea barbata, sometimes also called 'old man's beard', is a genus of lichens belonging to the ascomycetes. They are found in moist forests around the world, where they usually hang from tree branches. In rare cases they are also found on the bottom or on rocks. The genus belongs to the family of Parmeliaceae. Beard mosses are characterized by a shrub-like structure and a central axis from which branches arise. In areas free of air pollution they can grow 10 to 20 cm tall.