herbal

1 of 2

noun

herb·​al ˈ(h)ər-bəl 

1

: a book about plants especially with reference to their medicinal properties

2

archaic : herbarium sense 1

3

: herbal medicine sense 2

Some herbals may indeed be gentle remedies. But using them with prescription drugs can be a dangerous mix.

—Josh Fischman

herbal

2 of 2

adjective

: of, relating to, utilizing, or made of herbs

Examples of herbal in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Noun

There’s everything from herbals like rhubarb and nettle to green teas and Fortnum’s own signature blends, like Wedding Breakfast or Jubilee, devised in honor of the Queen’s Diamond celebrations in 2012. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 24 June 2026

Very rarely, valerian has been associated with liver injury, most often when taken in combination with other herbals. — Heather Jones, Verywell Health, 9 June 2026

Adjective

However, rooibos tea—a naturally caffeine-free, herbal tea native to South Africa—also has its advantages. — Caitlin Beale, Health, 24 June 2026

Its heartland is the volcanic country around Pitigliano and Sovana, and the standout reference is Sassotondo, whose various expressions of Ciliegiolo are moreish, herbal and rustically attractive. — Paul Caputo, Forbes.com, 23 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1526, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Adjective

1612, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing herbal

• herbal medicine
• herbal remedy

Rhymes for herbal

• gerbil
• verbal
• nonverbal
• preverbal

Kids Definition

herbal

adjective

herb·​al

ˈ(h)ər-bəl

: of, relating to, or made of herbs

Medical Definition

herbal

1 of 2 noun

herb·​al ˈ(h)ər-bəl 

1

: a book about plants especially with reference to their medical properties

2

: herbal remedy

herbal

2 of 2 adjective

: of, relating to, or made of herbs