Open, deciduous shrub with toothed leaves up to 7 inches long. Off-white fertile flowers and creamy white sterile flowers are borne in corymbs 2-6 inches across in summer.

It treats fluid retention and stone formation in the kidneys and bladder. It is also used for cystitis, urethritis, prostatitis, and rheumatoid arthritis, gout, and edema. It is also used to decrease pain and inflammation in the urinary tract and when stones are passed.

Erect perennial with tapering, woody taproot, wooly stems, and several spreading, leafy branches. Pink or white flowers appear singly or grouped in twos or threes, with obviate, notched petals. Produces round, downy fruit with many carpels each having one seed. Height: 4-5 feet. Blooms July-September.

Marshmallow has the ability to bind and eliminate toxins from the body. The leaves are used to treat frequent urination. It relieves dry coughs, treats bronchial asthma, congestion, and pleurisy. In addition, the root is used in a mouthwash to treat inflammation.

Perennial ground cover with short, dark stems. Its white flowers are tinged in red and come in small clusters at the ends of branches. Leathery, oblong leaves undivided and tapering; fruits are small, round, glossy red berries. Height: 3 inches. Blooms: April-May.

Uva ursi is one of the best natural urinary antiseptics. It disinfects and astringes the urinary tract, and experiments have shown uva ursi to have antibacterial effects. Uva ursi contains a component called allatonin that helps spur wound healing. Beta carotene, a component of this herb, stimulates the production of epithelial cells.