- What is an herb?
A seed producing plant that does not develop persistent woody tissue but dies down at the end of the growing season.
A plant or plant part valued for its medicinal, savory, or aromatic qualities.
Both of the above are correct.
- What is the difference between a drug and an herb?
Herbs are derived from plants, drugs are not.
Drugs are prescribed by physicians, herbs are not.
An herb is a plant part in its entirety, while a drug is a synthesized
copy of one chemical component, such as a component found in an
herb.
- The action of two or more substances such that the total effect is greater
than the sum of the individual effects is referred to as . . .
herbalism
holism
synergism
agnosticism
- True or False: Due to the fact that we spend more money per person on health care in the
United States than in any other country, we experience better health than any
other industrialized nation.
True
False
- This plant, used by the Chinese for at least 5,000 years, is the herb from
which Western scientists have derived the modern drug ephedrine:
echinacea
ma huang
ginseng
melaleuca
- The ancient Indian (East) system of herbal medicine is known as . . .
Ayurveda
Materia medica
Hatha yoga
Hinduism
- This Greek physician and herbalists, often referred to as the "Father of
Modern Medicine," is credited with having written, "Let your Foods be your
medicines, and your medicines your food."
Euripides
Pythagoras
Galen
Hippocrates
- From the Australian Aborigines we discovered this herb, which was used by
British soldiers during World War II as an antiseptic for wounds:
ma huang or ephedra
uña de gato or cat's claw
tea tree oil or melaleuca
kangaroo claw
- The suffix -itis, as in arthritis and neuritis means . . .
joint
inflammation
infection
nerve
- The word doctor comes from the Latin and means . . .
teacher
therapist
healer
- Which of the following means inflammation of the urinary bladder?
appendicitis
colitis
cystitis
cholangitis
cholecystitis
- What does hyperthyroidism mean?
an underactive thyroid gland
an overactive thyroid gland
neither of the above
- Where does the herb pygeum (Prunus africana) come from?
Australia
Africa
North America
Asia
- An agent that increases sexual drive is known as a(n) . . .
annual
aphrodisiac
sativum
vermifuge
- What is the most fundamental tenet of natural health philosophy?
The body has the ability to heal itself.
Germs are the cause of disease.
Heredity is more important than environment.
- According to Natural Health Philosophy . . .
Prevention is considered better than a cure.
The innate healing power of the human body is recognized and supported.
Doctors are expected to teach.
People should have a greater role in the decisions that affect their health.
all of the above
- The body attempts to maintain a state of equilibrium in its internal
environment. This is referred to as . . .
holism
herbalism
homeopathy
homeostasis
- True or False: Many of the great plagues that have befallen
humankind in the past have been the result of unclean living conditions.
True
False
- The digestion of proteins, which occurs primarily in the stomach,
requires a very acid environment, provided in the stomach by ____________.
bile
saliva
pancreatic juices
HCL (hydrochloric acid)
- The substance secreted by the liver and stored in the gall bladder and
released into the small intestines for the emulsification of fats is __________.
bile
saliva
pancreatic juice
HCL (hydrochloric acid)
- Which of the following enzymes help break down fats (lipids)?
protease
lipase
cellulase
amylase
- The beneficial bacteria that are found in the body and that are
essential to good health are known as __________.
fiber
flora
fauna
febrile
- Medical science has discovered that many stomach problems, including ulcers, are
associated with a bacteria called __________.
Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori)
Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Streptococcus
Staphylococcus
Lactobacillus acidophilus
- During digestion, food material passes from the small intestine to the
large intestine (colon) via the . . .
ileocecal valve
cardiac sphincter
pyloric sphincter
appendix
none of the above
- ____________ , also known as Piles, are dilated veins in the anus and
rectum caused primarily by insufficient dietary fiber and straining.
hemorrhoids
colitis
diverticulosis
halitosis
- True or False: Most of the problems that can occur with the colon
are at least in part due to insufficient dietary fiber.
True
False
- True or False: The three most common causes of death in
the United States are heart disease, cancer, and adult-onset diabetes (in
that order). Medical research has confirmed that insufficient dietary
fiber is a major cause of all three diseases!
True
False
- The lymphatic system serves . . .
to collect and recycle fluid that has leaked out of the capillaries.
to phagocytize, or ingest, bacteria, old red blood cells, etc.
to phagocytize, or ingest, impurities such as toxins and cellular waste.
as an important part of the immune system.
all of the above
- The blood cells responsible for the transport of oxygen and carbon
dioxide are the . . .
platelets
lymphocytes
white blood cells
red blood cells
all of the above
- Pernicious anemia results when the person's stomach fails to produce
intrinsic factor, which is necessary for the normal absorption of vitamin . . .
B-1
B-6
B-12
C
- The single major cause of artery disease is ___________, the thickening and hardening
of arterial walls by deposits of fatty materials.
obesity
phlebitis
aneurysm
arteriosclerosis
- This herb has been shown to be effective in helping normalize high blood
pressure. It has also proven useful as a "blood thinner," since it inhibits
blood clotting; and has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels for those
who have high serum cholesterol.
hawthorn
garlic
coenzyme Q-10
selenium
ginkgo
- This herb is widely used by herbalists around the world for cardiac
problems, particularly to strengthen a weakened heart. Scientists have
discovered that it also dilates blood vessels allowing blood to flow more
freely and thereby lowers the blood pressure. It also acts directly on the
heart muscle to help heal damaged heart tissue.
hawthorn
garlic
coenzyme Q-10
selenium
ginkgo
- This "vitamin-like" enzyme and strong antioxidant is necessary for the
cells to produce energy. Studies have shown that most heart patients are
deficient in this enzyme and that supplementation can sometimes dramatically
relieve heart disease symptoms. Remarkable results have been noted
particularly in patients with congestive heart failure.
hawthorn
garlic
coenzyme Q-10
selenium
ginkgo
- This trace mineral is synergistic with Vitamin E and has been shown to
help protect against coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease, and
peripheral vascular disease. Animals who have had their diets supplemented
with this mineral have been found to live 50% longer.
hawthorn
garlic
coenzyme Q-10
selenium
ginkgo
- Which division of the autonomic nervous system is called upon to stimulate
and prepare the body for emergency action, such as in the "fight or flight" response?
sympathetic
parasympathetic
central
peripheral
none of the above
- Substances such as serotonin and GABA, which are produced in the nerve cell and released across the synapse to transmit a signal to a neighboring nerve cell, are referred to as __________.
neurotransmitters
ions
drugs
amino acids
- The neurotransmitter that is usually found to be low in cases depression is ________.
acetylcholine
serotonin
dopamine
GABA
- The neurotransmitter that is also an amino acid and which is involved in slowing down nerve activity, thus having a calming effect on the mind, is ___________.
acetylcholine
serotonin
dopamine
GABA
- The hormone that is secreted by the pineal gland to induce sleep is __________.
acetylcholine
serotonin
dopamine
melatonin
- This herb is widely used for depression. Among its active ingredients are
hypericin and hyperforin, although its total benefits are the result of a
synergistic interaction of all its naturally-occuring indredients.
hops
kava kava
St. John's wort
valerian
ginkgo
- This herb comes from the rhizome of the pepper plant, Piper methysticum, which is found in Polynesia, Melanesia, and Micronesia. It is widely used for a nervous system relaxant for stress.
hops
kava kava
St. John's wort
valerian
ginkgo
- The name of this herb comes from a Latin word which means "to be in good health."
It has been used for centuries as a natural tranquilizer and to promote good sleep.
hops
kava kava
St. John's wort
valerian
ginkgo
- Although it is perhaps best known for its use in beer brewing, this herb
is valuable in the world of nutritional herbology for its sedative effect and
for its ability to help induce sleep. It is one of the three ingredients in
the popular sleep combination known as HVP.
hops
kava kava
St. John's wort
valerian
ginkgo
- Scientists have discovered that this herb contains natural chemicals
called parthenolides, which are responsible for most of the herb's
benefits. It is best known for its ability to help migraine sufferers.
kudzu
chamomile
passion flower
feverfew
- Which of the following herbs is a popular late night herbal tea sold
around the world in grocery stores and health-food stores. It contains the
amino acid tryptophan which helps boost serotonin levels in the brain which is
helpful for sleep and mood.
kudzu
chamomile
passion flower
feverfew
- What herb was referred to in the book Miracle Cures as "herbal
Antabuse." (Antabuse is a prescription drug often given to alcoholics to keep
them from drinking.) The herb does not cause a potential for nausea and vomiting,
like Antabuse, but it is helpful in curbing the craving for alcohol. Used
in combination with St. John's Wort for mood, this is part of a powerful
combination to nutritionally aid alcoholics who are desiring to quit.
kudzu
chamomile
passion flower
feverfew
- What is our best defense against cancer?
the American Cancer Society
a strong immune system
antibiotic drugs
magnets
- Which of the following is part of the body's natural defenses against
foreign invaders?
the skin
mucus in lungs and nasal passages
acids and enzymes in the digestive tract
the immune system
all of the above
- True or False:
The lymph moves through the body by way of one-way valves,
aided by the compression of lymph vessels when the muscles of
the body contract.
True
False
- One function of the immune system is to recognize and eliminate
cancer cells that arise within the body. This process is known as . . .
autoimmune
immune surveillance
cell-mediated immunity
humoral immunity
- This herb from the Peruvian rain forest received its name because
it has thorns that resemble the claws of a cat:
grapine
echinacea
catnip
uña de gato
- The symptoms of allergies are brought about when the body releases
certain chemicals, including __________, as a response to being exposed to an allergen.
hormones
neurotransmitters
adrenaline
histamine
- Asthma can be triggered by . . .
allergies
infection
emotional factors
all of the above
none of the above
- True or False: Other than the obvious food allergies, diet has
little to do with Asthma.
True
False
- The yeast-like fungus that often goes undiagnosed and which is often
involved in chronic respiratory problems is . . .
Cryptococcus
Aspergillus
Escherichia coli
Candida albicans
- Proanthocyanidins (previously known by the trade name pycnogenols) are
powerful antioxidants that come primarily from . . .
A. grapefruit
B. grape seeds
C. white willow bark
D. pine bark
E. B and D
F. A and C
- Respiratory conditions in which there is a deficiency of mucus, or the
mucus is thick and yellowish, are said to be _____ conditions.
damp
dry
hot
cold
- Respiratory conditions in which there is an excess of mucus are said to be
________ conditions.
damp
dry
hot
cold
- This bitter herb, also known as "Indian Tobacco," is native to North
America, has antispasmodic and expectorant actions and is excellent for
clearing the lungs. A few drops of an extract made from this herb, held under
the tongue, along with a couple of drops rubbed onto the chest or upper back,
can often stop an asthma attack very quickly.
lobelia
mullein
thyme
uña de gato
- For respiratory problems, essential oils are used in the following way:
diffusion
massage
in the bath
inhalation
all of the above
- Known to the lay person mostly for its "fat burning" ability, this
Chinese herb, also known as Ma huang, is a powerful natural antihistamine and
bronchial dilator.
mullein
fenugreek
ginseng
ephedra
- Otitis media, or a middle ear infection, can result when this becomes
blocked due to excess mucus, excessively thick mucus, and/or swelling of the
membranes.
sinuses
eustachian tube
pharynx
bronchi
- The pineal, pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands are examples of what type of glands?
exocrine glands
endocrine glands
lacrimal glands
- A chemical messenger secreted by an endocrine gland into the bloodstream is referred to as a(n):
adaptogen
antioxidant
hormone
- The pineal gland helps put us to sleep by secreting . . .
insulin
thyroxin
adrenaline
melatonin
TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
- Particularly important for the thyroid gland is the trace mineral found in kelp known as . . .
iron
iodine
vanadium
manganese
magnesium
- Which of the following herbs is best known as an adaptogen?
dong quai
saw palmetto
red raspberry
Siberian ginseng
- Which of the following herbs has traditionally been used by pregnant women
to facilitate delivery, prevent miscarriage, and alleviate morning sickness?
dong quai
saw palmetto
red raspberry
Siberian ginseng
- Which of the following minerals is helpful in eliminating cravings and is
the most important for helping the pancreas control blood sugar levels?
iodine
chromium
calcium
magnesium
- The most common organism found in urinary tract infections (UTI's) is . . .
Escherichia coli (E. coli)
Streptococcus
Staphylococcus
Acidophilus
- The most common reason that the elderly are put in nursing homes is . . .
senile dementia.
urinary tract infections.
urinary incontinence.
Alzheimer's disease.
- Hydrangea root (Hydrangea arborescens) is a bitter herb that is
antilithic, which means that it . . .
dissolves urinary stones.
cures urinary tract infections.
helps incontinence.
promotes the flow of urine.
- A diuretic is a substance that . . .
dissolves urinary stones.
cures urinary tract infections.
helps incontinence.
promotes the flow of urine.
- The __________ gland is a walnut-sized gland that surrounds the neck of the
bladder and the urethra in males only.
prostate
thymus
pineal
testes
- Which of the following herbs has traditionally been used by men
for prostate problems?
ginger
saw palmetto
red raspberry
Siberian ginseng
- Excessive movement which could dislocate a joint is prevented by strong
elastic connective tissues, known as ligaments, which cross the joint.
If a joint is forcefully extended beyond its normal range of motion, ligaments
can tear resulting in a ________.
sprain
strain
fracture
bursitis
- What is the most common form of arthritis?
osteoarthritis
gout
osteoporosis
rheumatoid arthritis
- Which of the following nutrients is found in certain foods such as apples
and may be helpful for muscle conditions such as fibromyalgia?
ascorbic acid
creatine
citric acid
malic acid
- Known as the "Father of All Herbs," this herb has a long history of
traditional use for joint problems, particularly arthritis. It is highly
nutritious, sending its roots deep into the soil where the best trace mineral
deposits are found.
yucca
alfalfa
ginger
uña de gato
- This fibrous protein, which makes up skin, bone, tendons, and cartilage,
is the most abundant protein in the body.
collagen
keratin
glutamine
actin
- Also known as fibromyositis and myofascial pain syndrome, this term
refers to a chronic condition of unknown cause resulting in pain in the
fibrous tissues, muscles, ligaments and tendons. The condition occurs mainly
in women and is often associated with depression, sleeping problems, irritable
bowel syndrome and chronic fatigue. In fact, most experts consider chronic
fatigue syndrome to be the same condition.
fibromyalgia
osteoarthritis
gout
osteoporosis
- Homeopathy traces its roots to the 19th century German physician . . .
Samuel Hahnemann
Jonas Salk
Arthur Hassall
Edwin Harrison
- A placebo works because . . .
the subject believes that it works.
it is all-natural.
it is powerful medicine.
it is just what the patient needs.
- True or False: Homeopathic formulations should not be taken along with herbs.
True
False
- A "3X" on the bottle of a homeopathic preparation indicates . . .
that the product should be taken three times a day.
that the product should be taken three times a week.
that the ingredient has been diluted and potentiated 3 times.
that the product should not be given to children.
- The Ayurvedic system of herbalism traces its roots back five thousand
years to . . .
the Kunlun Mountains of Tibet
the Himalayan Mountains of India
the Gobi region of China
the Nile valley of Egypt
- Which of the following statements does not characterize Ayurvedic
philosophy?
Illnesses of the mind are just as important as illnesses of the body.
In order to avoid illness and pain, one must control the destructive (and
self-destructive) nature.
Living in harmony with the environment is essential to one's mental, physical,
and spiritual well-being.
Prevention is more desirable than a cure.
Treatment should focus on the symptom, rather than the underlying cause.
- The ideal of Ayurvedic medicine is to develop an individual's natural
resistance to disease to the point where one's _______ system can function
as one's best medicine.
cardiovascular
immune
nervous
intestinal
respiratory
- Herbalists who draw upon various traditions (e.g., Chinese, Ayurvedic,
etc.)—choosing what appears to be the best for any given
situation—are referred to as . . .
eclectic
mixers
confused
synergistic
holistic
- Beneficial bacteria living inside the human body that are essential to
our health because they prevent the growth of harmful organisms such as yeast
and fungi are known as . . .
flora
fauna
phytonutrients
enzymes
- In the "A, B, C plus D" approach to natural health the "A"
stands for . . .
activate
alleviate
an Apple a Day
Advil
- In the "A, B, C plus D" approach to natural health the "B"
stands for . . .
break
build
body
bonus
- In the "A, B, C plus D" approach to natural health the "C"
stands for . . .
contaminate
chastise
cleanse
colon
- In the "A, B, C plus D" approach to natural health the "D"
stands for . . .
drive
delineate
direct deposit
direct aid
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