- Galactagogue
- A substance that increases milk secretions.
- Gargle
- An antiseptic liquid used to rinse the mouth and throat; a mouthwash.
- Gelatin
- A colourless, odourless, tasteless glue, and a rich source of water-soluble protein obtained by boiling animal bones.
It is used in eye ointments and nail-hardening lotions. Agar agar is the vegetable substitute.
- Genus
- A category of closely related species ranking below family and above species.
- Gingerols
- Antioxidants and improve digestion of proteins and fats.
They also soothe the stomach and fights liver toxicity and inflammation. They are the active constituents of ginger.
- Ginkolic acid
- Another antioxidant, found in ginkgo biloba, which improves circulation and mental clarity, treats depression, and fights cancer.
- Glaucous
- Covered with fine, white, often waxy film, which rubs off.
- Gluten
- One of the proteins in certain grains, particularly wheat, that gives dough its tough, elastic character.
- Glucosilinates
- Substances found exclusively in the mustard species of plants (e.g., mustard greens and radishes), having an irritant effect on the skin causing inflammation and blistering.
Applied as a poultice to painful or aching joints, they increase blood flow to the affected area, helping to remove the build-up of waste products, which are a contributory factor in joint problems. Glucosilinates also help to reduce thyroid function.
- Glycerin
- A thick, colourless, odourless syrup, and a byproduct of soap manufacturing.
It mixes well with water, is soluble in alcohol, and has softening properties. It is used as glycerol.
- Glycerol
- A syrupy liquid prepared by hydrolysis of fats and oils for use as skin lotions. It is used as glycerin.
- Glycosides
- A complex group of chemicals which contain in their chemical bonding one non-sugar part (aglycyn) and one or more sugar parts.
There are several types of glycosides, but the most common are the digitalis (cardio-active), anthraquinone (laxative), salicylic (pain-killers), thiocyanate (for poor circulation), flavonoid (prevents internal bleeding), and phenolic glycosides (reduces fever, controls muscle spasms, diuretic). Most glycosides have a powerful action on the heart and should be used with great discretion and knowledge. Glycosides are also considered to be sugar ethers. They are soluble in alcohol and water.
- Glycyrrhizins
- The protective phytochemicals found in licorice.
They have antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-tumor formation, and skin protective qualities.
- Gravel
- Small concretations formed in the kidneys, often called kidney stones.
- Grippe
- Influenza.
- Gum
- A class of carbohydrates which swell in the presence of water and which increases the thickness of water-based products.
They exudate with an insipid taste. They are insoluble in alcohol.
- Gymnosperm
- A member of the division of seed plants having ovules on open scales, especially cones.
