Shrub or small tree with sharp spines on branches and leaf stalks. Oval, pinnate leaves are dark green with soft hairs on the undersides, and small, yellow-green flowers appear before leaves. Blue berries are surrounded by gray shells and grow in clusters at tops of branches. Blooms: May-June. Height: Up to 10 feet

The herb is beneficial to circulation, relieves stomach pain, and stops diarrhea. It is used to treat rheumatic complaints, stop swelling, and, when used externally, can ease cramps.

Perennial climber with erect, semi-woody stems and sharp thorns. The leaves are large, prominently veined, and alternately stalked. Small, greenish flowers are followed by black berries.

Sarsaparilla is considered to be excellent for chronic hepatic disorders and some venereal diseases. It is anti-inflammatory, and can bring relief to skin problems such as eczema, psoriasis, and itchiness. Sarsaparilla also has progesterogenic actions, making it beneficial in premenstrual problems, and the debility and depression associated with menopause.

Evergreen tree, with elliptical blades up to 7 inches in length and bunches of small yellow flowers hanging from long stalks. Fruit resembling cloves follows the flowers. The bark is ashen and cracked. Height: 10 or more feet.

Cinnamon raises vitality, warms and stimulates all the vital functions of the body, counteracts congestion, is antirheumatic, stops diarrhea, improves digestion, relieves abdominal spasms, and aids the peripheral circulation of the blood. One German study found cinnamon suppresses completely the cause of most urinary tract infections and the fungus responsible for vaginal yeast infections.