Mimosa

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Mimosa is a tree that is considered invasive in these parts. Native to East Asia, mimosa has a long history as a medicinal plant in Traditional Chinese Medicine, where it is named He-Huan, which means “Tree of Collective Happiness”. Read on to find out why this tree deserves our respect and appreciation despite its “invasive” tendencies.

BOTANICAL NAME: Albizia julibrissin

COMMON NAMES: Mimosa, Silk Tree, Sensitive Plant, Herbal Prozac, Collective Happiness Bark,  Happiness Tree, He Huan Pi (Pinyin)

FAMILY: Fabaceae (Legume or Bean family)

PARTS USED: Flowers and Inner Bark 

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Fast growing, broad-crowned, short trunked tree that grows to 30ft. Leaves have a graceful, feathery appearance, with doubly compound leaflets, each containing 2-30 pairs of oblong leaflets (pinnules) .5 to 1 inch long, one side distinctly longer than the other. The leaves of some species of mimosa are sensitive to touch, curling inward with contact, and many fold up their leaves at night. Flowers are pink, silky, fluffy blooms. Around here these bloom May-August. The seeds that appear in late summer are flat, brown, dry, and shaped like pea-like pods, about 6” long.

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Commonly found growing throughout the Southern and Eastern regions of the United States, Albizzia is native to China, Persia, Korea and Japan. Plant prefers partial sun and moist but well-drained soil, however, will withstand drought and high winds and is quite resilient.

To start from seed, nick seed and drop in just boiled water and allow to soak overnight. Plant about ½” deep and keep in bright light and with even light and moisture conditions. Germination takes about 1 week. Seedlings should be placed into gallon pots and grown out for a year before transplanting to landscape.

Harvest flowers when newly opened in early summer. After flowers have been open for more than 2 days, they will start turning brown. Harvest inner bark in late winter or spring. Use older bark if possible as the inner portion of the bark is the most potent medicinally and older branches carry more inner bark.

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Nervine, mood-enhancer, sedative, analgesic, vulnerary, relaxant, antimicrobial, anthelminthic

INDICATIONS: Both the bark (he huan pi) and the flowers (he huan hua) of Albizia are used as a calming sedative in Traditional Chinese Medicine. Categorized in the Chinese Materia Medica as a calming spirit herb, or a “shen tonic,” Albizia can soothe a troubled heart and mind. The bark is thought to “anchor” or ground the spirit, while the flowers lighten it.

The flowers and bark are valued for relieving insomnia, anxiety, stress, and depression. Its use was first documented in the Shen Nong Ben Cao (Divine Husbandman’s Classic of the Materia Medica), one of the oldest medicinal texts from China, during the 2nd century. It was described as a mood-enhancing, calming and heart-soothing herb. Chinese people traditionally recommend its use for anyone who is suffering from grief as a result of a severe loss. While the flowers tend to have more uplifting and mood enhancing properties, the bark is more sedative and “anchors” the heart and the spirit, both of which can be helpful when there is grief, sorrow, insomnia and anxiety. It is wonderful for anyone suffering from heart-ache, depression, anxiety, anger, irritability, bad dreams, phobias, paranoia, sleep disorders, and any kind of emotional distress. 

Considering the proliferation of antidepressant drugs throughout the western world with their increasingly adverse effects, isn’t it wonderful that this tree grows in abundance and offers a safer and better alternative?  Michael Tierra says albizzia offers a more profound effect in treating depression and anxiety than the two most commonly promoted herbs, St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum) and Kava (Piper methysticum) and should be more widely used. Albizzia is thought to enhance all aspects of neurotransmitter secretion and regulation. Like all herbs, mimosa has multiple chemical constituents working on a number of pathways and mechanisms, giving it a pleotropic effect (more than one effect). 

Depression is a multifactoral syndrome with various underlying pathological mechanisms, and conventional antidepressants with single targets are often inadequate for effective treatment, while herbs like albizia have been shown to exert an antidepresasnt-like effect through various mechanisms, acting on multiple pathological factors across different systems (Huang B. et al).

Albizzia is also used for amnesia, poor memory, and agitation due to constrained emotions- especially when accompanied by epigastric pain and feelings of pressure in the chest. Secondarily, the bark is regarded as one of the most important herbs for the treatment of external trauma, contusions, and injuries. It promotes blood circulation, reduces pain and swelling, promotes the regeneration of flesh and facilitates the healing of bone fractures. (Michael Tierra)

Ayurvedic uses include bronchitis, asthma, allergic disorders, leprosy, eczema, as an anti-inflammatory agent, and worm infestation.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Because of its blood moving properties it may be contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding, although I could find no definitive contraindications in any of my sources. Best to avoid during pregnancy at least. 

As mentioned from www.HearthsideHealing.com: “Please note that there are several western herbalists who have noted that Albizia has caused people susceptible to mania to become manic. This was surprising to me as there is no evidence of this in modern or traditional Chinese herbal literature. In fact, it is one of the most commonly prescribed herbs for insomnia, disturbed and vivid dreaming in Chinese medicine. But notable herbalists David Winston, Thomas Easley and Janet Kent have all reported this to me so I must make mention if it here.” I interpret this caution as a reminder to not use the herb unless it is indicated. Mania is not one of the indications for mimosa. Other emotional disturbances such as melancholy, grief and restlessness are indications for this plant. When we use herbs, we look to their energetics and indications to guide us. If someone does not have the symptoms described above, they probably don’t need this plant. If someone alternates between depression and mania, they would only need to use the mimosa when they are in the depressed state and discontinue when the mania sets in (maybe switch to skullcap and passionflower for those periods). 

I have also not been able to find any observed herb-drug interactions. Some sources say that there is a theoretical contraindication with mimosa for people who are taking prescription anti-depressants, but I have not found any validation for this in terms of studies or case reports. So, I would still feel comfortable using this concurrently with anti-depressant medications, but I would start with small doses and ask my client to tune into their body awareness monitor any changes to mood, energy, sleep, etc. Because mimosa has multiple mechanisms of action and is not working on a single target or pathway, it is unlikely that mimosa would cause a severe interaction.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE: Soluble in alcohol, water

Dried bark: 9-30 g/day; Flowers: 3-9 g/day (Foster & Chongxi)

Tincture: Freshly dried flowers (1:2, 50% alcohol); Dried bark (1:5, 50% alcohol); 10 drops to 5 ml 1-4x/day.

Decoction of bark: As it is fairly unpleasant, this is not the best tasting infusion. To improve the taste, add other herbs which decoct well and benefit the formula’s intention. 

Can also infuse into honeys, oils, or use in an antimicrobial mouthwash.

COMBINATIONS:

  • Combine with Ghost Pipe, Oat Tops and/or Lemon Balm for deep grief
  • Combine with Goldenrod, Nettles, and Plantain for seasonal allergic relief

HOMEOPATHIC USE: Good for rheumatism, stiff joints, lancinating pains in back and limbs. Swelling of ankles, legs tremble. (Boericke)

FLOWER ESSENCE USE: I embrace childlike wonder. Helps regain playfulness and childlike innocence while remaining grounded. This Essence is wonderful for Dreamwork. (Brigd’s Way)

ETHNOBOTANY/FOLKLORE/HISTORY: German scientists assert that mimosa tree bark is part of the heavily guarded Coca Cola recipe, a concoction that has been making people happy for decades! (1999-2001- Pulse Media International)

Phyllis Light says mimosa is used in much the same way peach leaf is used in traditional Appalachian herbalism. She also suggests using mimosa to break addictions such as sugar.

Mimosa is also known in the East to “promote family affection & harmony” (Holmes)

REFERENCES:

  1. The Modern Herbal Dispensatory, Thomas Easley & Steven Thorne
  2. hearthsidehealing.com – Mimosa – The Happiness Tree
  3. New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory, William Boericke
  4. Albizia Spirit Essence – Brigid’s Way
  5. Herbal Emissaries- Bringing Chinese Herbs to the West- by Steven Foster & Yue Chongxi
  6. Jade Remedies: A Chinese Herbal Reference for the West, Volume 1- by Peter Holmes
  7. Huang B, Wu Y, Li C, Tang Q, Zhang Y. Molecular basis and mechanism of action of Albizia julibrissin in depression treatment and clinical application of its formulae. Chin Herb Med. 2023 Mar 15;15(2):201-213. doi: 10.1016/j.chmed.2022.10.004. PMID: 37265761; PMCID: PMC10230641. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10230641/ 

*** These statements have not been reviewed by the FDA. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease ***

Muira Puama

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Muira puama is a plant native to the Amazon and is sometimes referred to as Viagra of the Amazon. It is most famous for its aphrodisiac properties, but this tree is also a brain and nervous system tonic, energy tonic and anti-rheumatic with no toxicity or drug interactions. More people should know about this valuable herb.

BOTANICAL NAME: Ptychopetalum olacoides 

COMMON NAMES: Potency Wood, Viagra of the Amazon 

FAMILY: Olacaceae 

PARTS USED: Bark, root 

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Muira puama is a small evergreen tree/bush that grows to 14-17 ft tall, has short-petioled leaves that are light green on top and dark brown on the bottom. It produces small, white, jasmine scented blooms in short axillary racemes of 4-6 flowers. Its roots that are tough and fibrous thin bark and broad wood, with a light brown interior. 

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Muira puama is native to the Brazilian Amazon rainforest, northern South America, and has many indigenous names. It requires a tropical climate, light to heavy soils, preferring those that are well-drained, near neutral pH, requires full sun exposure, and plentiful moisture to thrive. Bark and root are harvested throughout the growing season and can be used fresh or dried and stored in a cool, dry place. 

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Warming, relaxing/calming, sweet, astringent, stimulating, earthy

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Tonic, aphrodisiac, aromatic, adaptogenic, analgesic, anti-fatigue, antioxidant, anti-ulcer, hypotensive, nootropic, nervine, neuroprotective, neurasthenic, anti-depressant, astringent, cardiotonic, bitter, cholagogue, anti-cholesterol, anti-rheumatic

INDICATIONS: A tonic for nervous conditions, depression, memory enhancement, stress relief, promotes overall nerve function and relieves nerve pain. 

Supports reproductive system function. Increasing blood flow to the pelvis. Treats the discomfort of menopause in women and cramping associated with menses.

It has also been used for alopecia, low libido (mainly for men), impotence, Beri beri (vitamin B1 deficiency), erectile dysfunction, anorexia, dysentery, rheumatism, and hair loss/balding. 

Traditional medicinal uses:

Historically, all parts of Miura Puama have been used medicinally, but the bark and roots are the most-utilized parts of the plant. It has long been used in the Amazon by indigenous peoples for a number of purposes. Native peoples along the Brazilian Amazon’s Rio Negro use the stems and roots from young plants as a tonic to treat neuromuscular problems; a root decoction is used in baths and massages for treating paralysis and beri-beri; and a root-and-bark tea is taken to treat sexual debility, rheumatism, grippe, and cardiac and gastrointestinal weakness. It’s also valued there as a preventive for baldness. In Brazilian herbal medicine, Miura Puama still is a highly regarded sexual stimulant with a reputation as a powerful aphrodisiac. It has been in the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia since the 1950s. It is used as a neuromuscular tonic for weakness and paralysis, dyspepsia, menstrual disturbances, chronic rheumatism (applied topically), sexual impotency, grippe, and central nervous system disorders.

Early European explorers noted the indigenous uses and the aphrodisiac qualities of muira puama and brought it back to Europe, where it has become part of herbal medicine in England. It is listed in the British Herbal Pharmacopoeia (a noted herbal medicine source from the British Herbal Medicine Association) where it is recommended for the treatment of dysentery and impotence.  In Germany, muira puama is employed as a central nervous system tonic, for hookworms, menstrual disturbances, and rheumatism. Muira puama has been gaining in popularity in the United States, where herbalists and health care practitioners are using it for impotence, depression, menstrual cramps and PMS, nerve pain, and central nervous system disorders.

CURRENT RESEARCH REVIEW: 

In one of the early studies, researchers indicated that muira puama was effective in treating disorders of the nervous system and sexual impotence, and that “permanent effect is produced in locomotor ataxia, neuralgias of long standing, chronic rheumatism, and partial paralysis.” In 1930, Meiro Penna wrote about muira puama in his book Notas Sobre Plantas Brasilerias. He cited experiments conducted in France by Dr. Rebourgeon that confirmed the efficacy of the plant for “gastrointestinal and circulatory asthenia and impotency of the genital organs.”

The benefits of treating impotence with muira puama have been studied in two human trials in France, which reported that muira puama was effective in improving libido and treating erectile dysfunction. In one French study among 262 male patients who experienced lack of sexual desire and the inability to attain or maintain an erection, 62% of the patients with loss of libido reported that the extract of muira puama “had a dynamic effect,” and 51% of patients with erectile dysfunction felt that muira puama was beneficial. The second study evaluated positive psychological benefits of muira puama in 100 men with male sexual weakness. The therapeutic dosage was 1.5 g of a muira puama extract daily. In their final report, researchers indicated muira puama could “enhance libido [in 85% of test group], increase the frequency of intercourse [in 100%] and improve the ability to maintain an erection [in 90%].”

In other recent clinical research, muira puama extracts have been reported to have adaptogenic, antifatigue, antistress, and beneficial effects on the central nervous system. A specially-prepared extract from the root of muira puama has been patented for its ability to “relieve physical and mental fatigue” and for “ameliorating a weakened constitution.” Researchers in Brazil documented a definite central nervous system effect of the bark in studies with mice. The bark of muira puama also has demonstrated a mild, short-lived, hypotensive effect. The root was found to inhibit stress-induced ulcers, while the leaf demonstrated an analgesic effect. Another U.S. patent has been filed on muira puama, citing that it can “reduce body fat percentage, increase lean muscle mass and lower cholesterol” in humans and animals with long-term use (and with no toxicity noted).

The newest research confirms muira puama’s traditional use for memory and nervous disorders. Brazilian researchers reported in 2003 that an alcohol extract of muira puama facilitated memory retrieval in both young and aged mice and noted it may be beneficial for Alzheimer’s patients. Their next study published in 2004 reported that an alcohol extract of muira puama protected and increased the viability of brain cells in mice (partly through an antioxidant effect) which may be beneficial for stroke victims. Toxicity studies with mice published in 1983 indicates no toxic effects.

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Avoid using while pregnant/ breastfeeding due to lack of info on safety. 

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:

  • Cold Infusion: 3-6 oz each morning
  • Tincture: Dried bark (1:5, 70% alcohol), 1-3 ml (0.2-0.6 tsp) each morning

DRUG INTERACTIONS: None reported

COMBINATIONS: Goes well with Damiana, maca, and oats to increase its aphrodisiac effects. Also pairs well with ashwagandha. 

REFERENCES:

  1. WebMD
  2. Herbal Safety 
  3. Mountain Rose Herbs 
  4. Happy Herb Company
  5. National Nutrition
  6. Rain-tree.com – Muira puama profile (contains research references)

Ground Ivy

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This common, creeping perennial weed is something you’ve probably been cursing for years. It’s in everyone’s garden or lawn, and while it’s easy to pull up, its spreading nature keeps it on the annoying plant list for most people. And like most weeds, this one has an impressive amount of medicinal uses, including as a spring tonic to relieve seasonal allergies.

BOTANICAL NAME: Glechoma hederacea  

COMMON NAMES: Ground Ivy, Creeping Charlie, Gill-Over-The-Ground, Alehoof, Cat’s Foot, Cat’s Paw, Gill-Go-By-The Hedge, Gillrun, Hay Maids, Hedge Maids, Lian Qian Cao, Lizzy-Run-Up-The-Hedge, Robin-Run-In-The-Hedge, Tun-Hoof, Turnhoof 

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (Mint family)

PARTS USED: Leaves, flowers and tender stems  

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: The leaves are heart shaped, opposite, scalloped, and dark green, sometimes tinted purple. The main root is thick and matted it sends out runners up to several feet long. Considered an invasive. Flowers appear in March – April and are purplish to blue, two lipped and grow in axillary whorls of six. The plant is quite aromatic when picked. As a member of the mint family it has a square stem. The stems are finely haired. 

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Ground ivy is a creeping European perennial evergreen, naturalized in North America and found in moist shady areas, along paths, around hedges, and roadsides from Ontario to deep south, west to Kansas, and along the Pacific Coast. Cultivation: it is easily cultivated through root division and thrives in moist shady areas. Gather leaves, flowers and stems year-round. Can be dried for later herb use.  

ETHONBOTANY/FOLKLORE/HISTORY: Ground ivy has a long history of use in alternative medicine and as an edible herb, dating back to the first century A.D. it was long considered a panacea (cure-all). Known for its hi vitamin C content it is said to be one of the first herb and edible plants brought to the North American continent by early settlers. Ground ivy was widely used by the Saxons instead of Hops in the production of ale, hence the name alehoof. Maude Grieve is of the opinion that this was because it improved the flavor and keeping qualities of the beer and also because it made the final drink clearer.  

It also has a long reputation as an excellent tisane herb, where a tea is made from the herb which is then sweetened with honey, sugar or licorice and allowed to cool. It was often sold on the streets in Elizabethan England under the name ‘Gill Tea’. It was used in this era as a blood purifier. Interestingly, ‘Gill Tea’ was the name of the drink made by boiling together Ground Ivy and young Nettle shoots and drinking it for 9 consecutive days in the spring. This remedy was used to clear up skin complaints as well as in the form of a spring tonic. 

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: light, astringent, aromatic, slightly bitter, cooling. 

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Essential oils (limonene and menthone), flavonoids, triterpenes (alpha and beta ursolic acids and oleanolic acid), marrubiin which is a diterpene, and polyphenolic acids (rosmarinic acid), Vitamin C  

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Diuretic, astringent, nervine, anti-allergenic/antihistaminic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antioxidant, antiseptic, antispasmodic, antiviral, expectorant, immune stimulant, sedative. 

INDICATIONS: Ground ivy is an excellent spring tonic. It contains a volatile oil which aids in relieving congestion and inflammation of mucous membranes associated with colds, flu, and sinusitis and it can stimulate appetite. 

  • Kidneys & Urinary System – a gentle diuretic and urinary tonic, ground ivy can be used for bladder infections, cystitis, renal inflammation, hematuria and kidney stones. 
  • Respiratory System – This herb has a wide variety of uses for the respiratory tract, including in the treatment of coughs and colds, sinusitis, catarrh, asthma, bronchitis, nervous coughs, pertussis and tuberculosis.  
  • Digestive System – Used to treat gastritis and acid indigestion as well as gastrointestinal ulcers, and to treat diarrhea and dry up mucous secretions (good for mucus colitis, but not great for dry stools). It can also be used as part of a formula to treat dyspepsia, obstructive jaundice, IBS and hemorrhoids as a fresh juice or tea made from the dried herb. 
  • Topical applications – Topically, ground ivy can be used to relieve sinus infections (as a steam) and ear infections (as an infused oil).  As a lotion or wash to it can treat lice, abscesses, itchy skin and eczema. Added to bath as an emollient to soften skin and has a sedative effect.
  • Other – The herb also has a reputation as a useful nervine, particularly in the treatment of tension headaches. It has been used to bring down retained placentas, to tone female reproductive system, and for glandular problems. It is being studied for use in preventing leukemia, many kinds of cancer, and HIV.  Although results are not conclusive it is being used as an antidote for lead poisoning. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Do not use in excessively dry conditions – Ground Ivy can be very drying and would not suit people with an overly hot, dry disposition. Small doses of this powerful plant are recommended. (Potts). Reportedly toxic to horses and one case of human toxicity reported (Duke).  

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol. Use as a tea, tincture, infused oil, bath, steam or compress. 

Ground ivy tea or juice is well tolerated and can be given to small children. The dosage for ground ivy is 2-4g dried herb or equivalent liquid extract three times per day. 

Recipe for colds and flu: Express fresh juice with press. Take 1 tsp. 3 times a day, ½ tsp. for children. Use 2 or 3 drops in nose twice a day for sinusitis. 3-5 drops of tincture daily is used for toning the female reproductive system.  

REFERENCES:  

  1. http://www.altnature.com/gallery/Ground_Ivy.htm 
  2. www.botanical.com A Modern Herbal, Maude Grieve  
  3. http://www.rowanremedies.com/healing/glechoma-hederacea-ground-ivy/ 
  4. Witches Heal, Billie Potts.  
  5. Medicinal Plants and Herbs, Steven Foster and James Duke

Echinacea

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Echinacea is a native perennial that supports our immune system, helps our bodies to remove toxins and poisons, and keeps our blood and skin healthy. Yes, you can use it for colds & flus, but traditionally it was used to treat snakebites. It’s also helpful for acne and allergies! Echinacea is a great ally for this time of year as we feel the detoxifying pull of spring yet are still in the midst of cold & flu season.

BOTANICAL NAME: Echinacea angustifolia, E. purpurea (Echinacea angustifolia is endangered. Use only organically cultivated sources of this species. Echinacea purpurea is easier to grow and much more abundant)

COMMON NAMES: Purple coneflower, Coneflower, American Coneflower 

FAMILY: Asteraceae 

PARTS USED: Root, leaf and flower

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Echinacea is a perennial herb that is 6”–24” tall with a woody taproot. It has one to several rough hairy stems that are mostly unbranched. The leaves are alternate, simple, and narrowly lance-shaped. The stem leaves are widely spaced and attached alternately to the lower half of the stem. Edges of leaves are toothless and have three distinct veins along its length. Stem and leaves are rough and hairy to touch. Echinacea flowers look like lavender sunflowers. Flowerheads are 1.5” – 3” wide and are at the ends of long stalks. They bloom in summer. 

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Echinacea purpurea and E. angustifolia are native east of the Rocky Mountains, and in the Atlantic drainage area, predominantly the Great Plains and central United States and adjacent areas of Canada. The genus range is from Alberta in the north to almost the Gulf of Mexico in Louisiana and Texas in the south, and from the Ohio oak savannas, glades of Tennessee, and the Carolinas in the east, to the Rocky Mountain foothills in the west. 

Seeds require a cold/moist stratification period to sprout. Echinacea thrives in full to partial sun and needs at least four hours of sunlight per day. Echinacea flowers are ready to harvest when the buds start to open, which is usually around 90-140 days after planting. Leaves and flowers can be harvested in the early summer when the flower starts to bloom. To harvest roots, make sure your plants are at least 3 years old. Dig up the root in the fall and slice in half with a clean knife. Replant one half to continue growing.  

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Cooling, drying, bitter

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Alterative, antiseptic, anti-venomous, antiviral, immune stimulant, lymphatic 

INDICATIONS: Echinacea aids in the process of antibody formation and stimulates the production of white blood cells. It helps strengthen and clear lymph nodes, making it a very useful alterative and treating colds and flus and a variety of toxins. Echinacea inhibits the enzyme, hyaluronidase, which breaks down compounds that bind cells together, thus inhibiting the spread of infections. 

Useful for infections of the upper respiratory tract such as laryngitis, tonsillitis, and for catarrhal (mucous-y) conditions of the nose and sinus. Combined with goldenseal it is an excellent remedy for bacterial and fungal infections of the sinuses. It is also supportive for allergic rhinitis in combination with other anti-inflammatory herbs such as goldenrod, turmeric, nettle, quercetin, and reishi. 

Several studies indicated that it can help, prevent, treat and shorten the duration of viral illnesses. As an immune enhancer, echinacea is also indicated for gingivitis (oral rinse), vaginal yeast infections and UTIs (internally). Topically, Echinacea is a wonderful remedy for wounds, bites and stings.

Echinacea activates macrophages on its own, independent of T cells. The echinacoside glycosides appear to be the primary ‘antibiotics’ in echinacea and function synergistically with other active constituents in the plant. The polysaccharides possess good antitumor, bacteriostatic and anesthetic properties. The active constituents within the roots have shown mild activity against Streptococcus and Staphylococcus aureus. Caffeic acid derivative echinacoside reduced growth and rate of production of Trichomonas vaginalis and halted recurrence of Candida albicans infections.

Traditional Uses for echinacea were to correct “bad blood,” (toxins, infections or poisons in the blood). This can be seen as a tendency to sepsis and malignancy, sloughing and spreading ulcerations, foul discharges, pus, dirty-brownish coating on the tongue. It was a remedy for gangrene, typhoid, septicemia, malignant carbuncles, abscesses, diphtheria, and snake bite. Native Americans used it for rattlesnake bites, and today it is used for cellulitis from bee stings and to prevent tick-borne diseases from taking root in the host following a bite. In all of these conditions, echinacea works best when taken early, at the first signs of infection, and in frequent doses. For snake and insect bites, it is best to use both topically as well as internally. 

Echinacea was first popularized as a remedy for septicemia and has been successfully employed in injuries complicated with septic infection. Epidemic influenza was only occasionally ameliorated by Echinacea. Modern research shows that echinacea can help to reduce the duration of a viral infection, and in many cases, it reduces the volume of mucus in the upper respiratory tract, but it does not remove the symptoms entirely. Fresh plant tincture works best, but water-based preparations can be used for more chronic conditions, and it has to be used in therapeutic doses for it to be effective. 

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol, glycerin 

  • Decoction: 2 tsp root herb: 8 oz hot water, decoct 10 minutes, steep 30. Drink 2-4 oz, 3x/day (I prefer the decoction for chronic conditions)
  • Tincture: Fresh (1:2, 95% alcohol); Dried (1:6, 60% alcohol) 2.5-5 mL, 3-6x/day (for acute conditions, use the higher end)
  • Glycerite: Dried root or herb (1:5), 2-8 mL, 1x/day (great option for children to use internally) 
  • Topically: as a compress, wash or soak. Tincture can be applied directly to skin as a liniment for bites, stings and carbuncles.

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Caffeic acid esters including echinacoside (in E. angustifolia only) and cichoric acid (in E purpurea only) alkylamides, mostly unsaturated isobutyl amides, polysaccharides (including echinacin B); polyacetylenes, and essential oil 

PHARMACOLOGY: The root of Echinacea contains inulin, which activates the alternative complement pathway. The polysaccharides are non-specific T cell activators and stimulate T-cell mitogenesis, phagocytosis by macrophages, increase in TNF IL-1, lg binding, and increases neutrophils. Echinoside is antibacterial. 

The alkylamides and cichoric acid are potent stimulators of macro phagocytosis. Echinacea also supports the immune system by activating natural killer cells and increasing the production of interferon, an important part of the body’s response to viral infections. (8,9). Together, these constituents increase the production and activity of white blood cells and the non-specific immune response.

Echinacea also inhibits hyaluronidase, stabilizing mucosal connective tissue against invasion by pathogenic organisms. Echinacea also has antioxidant activity. Root extracts of E. angustifolia, E. pallida, and E. purpurea are capable of scavenging hydroxyl radical and suppressing the oxidation of human low-density lipoprotein. (12)

CONTRAINDICATIONS:

Allergic hypersensitivity to plants in the Asteraceae family is common, therefore exercise caution with administration in atopic patients.

Toxicity: lmmuno-suppression has been reported at doses 1000 times a recommended dose.

DRUG INTERACTIONS:

  • Econazole nitrate (positive): E. purpurea juice (po, IV or SC) lowered the rate of recurrent Candidiasis in conjunction with topical econazole nitrate.
  • Immunosuppressive drugs (negative): Brinker speculates that Echinacea spp. may counter the effects of cyclosporine, corticosteroids or other immuno-suppressive medications based on animal studies.
  • Hepatotoxic drugs (negative): E. spp. do contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids. However, they are in extremely low concentrations and do not contain the 1,2-unsaturated cecine ring associated with hepatotoxicity. None the less, Brinker suggests avoiding the combination of E. spp with anabolic steroids, amiodarone, methotrexate and ketoconazole.
  • 7 benzyloxyresorufin: Apparently, E. angustifolia roots inhibit the GYP 3A4 metabolic conversion of 7-benzyloxyresorufin.

COMBINATIONS:

  • Echinacea, Yarrow or Barberry, it is effective against cystitis
  • Echinacea and Goldenseal, powerful antibacterial and antifungal for sinus infections 
  • Echinacea, Comfrey and Plantain as a wound-healing poultice

FLOWER ESSENCE USE: Echinacea flower essences for those who lack a sense of identity because of the anonymity of modern life, or who, because of physical or emotional trauma, feel as if they are ‘falling apart.’ Such threats to the sense of self may underlie many immune-related illnesses. It strengthens the sense of self and engenders a feeling of wholeness. Echinacea is used specifically for those who feel shattered by severe trauma in their lives. They may feel profoundly alienated, unable to contact that inner place of strength and calm. Echinacea helps to bring about a sense of wholeness, and greater resilience when under enormous stress. 

An Echinacea person may feel cross and irritable and does not wish to be contradicted. So nervous they cannot study or concentrate, their head feels dull, and their senses numbed. They may also be depressed and out of sorts, particularly in the afternoon. They are generally worse after eating, and after physical and mental exertion and better for rest. 

ETHNOBOTANY/HISTORY/FOLKLORE: The genus name Echinacea is derived from the Greek ‘echinos’ which means hedgehog and refers to the appearance of the spiny seed head.

Echinacea was used at length by Native Americans and by traditional herbalists in the United States and in Canada. One of the first written accounts was by an equestrian from Louisiana who used this herb topically on horses. According to the ethnobotanical work, Uses of Plants by the Indians of the Missouri River Region, written in 1914 by Melvin Gilmore, “echinacea seems to have been used as a remedy for more ailments than any other plant.” A variety of tribes, including the Pawnee, Dakota, Omaha-Winnebago relied heavily upon this plant. It was used for situations ranging from swellings to distemper in horses. This herb was administered as a fresh juice, herbal smudge or smoke, and often either the leaf or root was simply chewed on. Echinacea was used traditionally for supporting the immune system and also for topical use.

The Eclectic physicians in the United States popularized Echinacea in the late 1800’s showing particular interest in E. angustifolia. John Uri Lloyd and John King were major proponents of this herb, extolling its virtues far and wide for several years until it became the single most widely used herb by the Eclectics. It was all the rage until the Eclectic schools closed down in the mid 1930’s at which point the popularity of echinacea declined in the United States. It fell out of fashion until the 1970’s when herbalists resurrected it. However, during this time, E. purpurea was gaining recognition in Germany. Ironically, E. angustifolia was the species that most traditional herbalists and Native Americans used, yet E. purpurea was the species that the Germans ended up researching and therefore the one that became the most popular, first in Europe, and then in the United States. Thus, the species which had the most substantiated historical evidence, has the least scientific research. As the story goes, in the 1950’s the Swiss naturopathic doctor, Dr. Vogel, came to the U.S. to study Echinacea in South Dakota. He brought seeds back which he believed were from E. angustifolia and gave them to a German doctor who planted them and made a preparation. Soon it was discovered that the species was actually E. purpurea which is why it became so popular and widely studied in Europe. 

REFERENCES:

    1. Herbal Therapeutics, David Winston
    2. The Herbal Handbook, David Hoffmann
    3. The Modern Herbal Dispensatory, Thomas Easley and Steven Horne
    4. Flower Power, Ann McIntyre
    5. Mountain Rose Herbs, mountainroseherbs.com/echinacea
    6. Medical Herbalism, David Hoffman
    7. New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory, William Boericke
    8. Pizzorno, J., et al: The Textbook of Natural Medicine, 2nd ed., Churchill Livingstone, New York, NY. 1999
    9. Lininger et al: Healthnotes: Clinical Essentials, Herb Monographs. Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA. 2001
    10. Mills, S. and Bone, K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy . Churchhill Livingstone, New York, NY. 2000
    11. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Medical Economics Company Inc., Montvale, NJ. 2001
    12. Hu, C. Studies on the antioxidant activity of Echinacea root extract. J Agric Food Chem. 2000 May;48(5):1466-72.

*** This article is for educational purposes only. The information contained here has not been reviewed by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease ***

Rosemary

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Rosemary is a well-known culinary herb with a distinct flavor that pairs well with citrus, meats, vegetables and cheeses. Its powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties made it an ideal spice help preserve foods in the days before refrigerators and preservatives. It’s got a strong flavor and a strong personality and a pinch of rosemary a day can do wonders for your nervous, digestive and circulatory systems.

BOTANICAL NAME: Rosmarinus officinalis 

FAMILY: Lamiaceae (mint)

PARTS USED: Arial parts (primarily leaf, but flower and stem can be used)

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: A strongly fragrant, evergreen, woody shrub native to the Mediterranean region, characterized by needle-like, dark green leaves and small, two-lipped, pale blue to purple flowers that bloom in clusters along the stems. The stems are woody and branched, with new growth being soft and flexible, becoming more rigid with age.

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Rosemary comes from the Mediterranean coast, where the soil and air are dry and well-drained and nutrient poor. It is fairly drought tolerant and will not thrive if overwatered. Plant rosemary in the spring after frost danger has passed and the soil is warming, spacing starter plants 2-3 ft apart. Use cuttings from established plants for the best results as seeds are slow to grow and may take several years to reach maturity for harvesting. Mulch the plant to keep it insulated in winter. If growing in colder climates, it may be best to place in a container and bring it inside in the winter. Prune dead woody branches annually before new spring growth to encourage vigor and avoid the plant becoming woody, leggy and straggly. After about 5 years, it is best to replace with a fresh cutting to continue having quality harvests.  Rosemary can be harvested at any time but provides the freshest taste and most potent volatile oil content from fresh tips harvested in the spring. Snip off stems and use fresh or hang upside down in bunches in a dry, dark area to dry for later use. 

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Spicy, warm, stimulating, diffusive, astringent

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Volatile oils (including borneol, camphene, camphor, cineole, limonene, linalool, a-pinene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene), flavonoids, rosmarinic acid and other phenolic acids, diterpenes, triterpenes (1)

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-spasmodic (smooth muscle relaxant), circulatory stimulant, tonic, astringent, diaphoretic, stomachic, cholagogue, capillary stabilizer

INDICATIONS: Rosemary’s warming and stimulating action stimulates the metabolism, enhancing the burning and consumption of blood sugars and fats, thereby warming, cleaning, and oxidizing throughout the body and mind. As a circulatory tonic, it is said to embrace all 3 elements necessary to treat the heart – tonic, cleansing, and nervine actions. It is therefore ideal for atherosclerosis, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Rosemary decreases capillary fragility, increases coronary blood flow and supports circulation all over the body, including the skin, extremities, and head. As a diaphoretic, it can bring more blood to the surface and open the pores, releasing trapped heat and helping to break a fever. 

It has a reputation for increasing memory and clearing stagnated cerebral flow which causes vertigo, fainting, loss of memory, ‘foggy brain,’ and headaches. Secondary effects from increased cerebral flow help clear depression, anxiety, and nervousness. It may also improve vision.  Matthew Wood recommends rosemary for persons with lack of self-identity and strength of personality, older persons with poor circulation, and those with diminished appetite, bitter taste in the mouth, or bad breath (3). 

While it may be stimulating to circulation and metabolism, it is also relaxing to the nervous system and smooth muscles. Not sedating, but it relieves tension on both a physical and emotional level. The volatile oils influence the limbic system and shift one’s sense of awareness to be calm yet alert. Studies done with rosemary essential oil showed that participants exposed to rosemary oil (as aromatherapy) had decreased frontal alpha and beta power, increased alertness, lower anxiety and reported feeling more relaxed and alert. When given simple math problems before and after the rosemary treatment, participants were able to complete the equations faster, but not necessarily more accurately, following treatment (5).

Rosemary makes an excellent tonic for the elderly as it will stimulate the appetite, support the digestive fire, prevent digestive stagnation and the accompanying fermentation, and relieve flatulence and distension due to weak digestion. The bitter taste stimulates digestive secretion and aids in assimilation by stimulating the liver and gallbladder, increasing bile production and supporting the breakdown of fats. 

Topically, it can provide follicle stimulation to decrease hair loss and stimulate new growth. It can also be helpful for neuralgia and other acute pains when applied topically as an infused oil or essential oil (essential oil must be diluted before applying to skin). Rosemary baths are lovely way to enjoy this herb as well and were once considered tonifying for people who are run-down, hypotensive and pale. Baths can also be helpful for breaking a fever, relieving arthritic and muscular pains and gently warming and relaxing the body. Perfect for a cold winter day!

PREPARATION & DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol, oil, glycerin

  • Tea/infusion: 1 cup up to 3x/day
  • Tincture: Dried leaves (1:5, 65% alcohol, 10% glycerin); 10 drops to 3 ml (0.6 tsp) up to 3x/day
  • Glycerite: Fresh leaves (1:6, 80% glycerin sealed simmer method); dried leaves (1:6) 1-5 ml (0.2-1 tsp) 1-3x/day
  • Capsule: 500-1500 mg up to 3x/day
  • Topical use: Prepare a salve from oil (1:4) and apply as needed. The essential oil can be applied neat or added to salves, oils, and ointments. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Brinker contraindicates the use of Rosmarinus during pregnancy due to empirical emmenagogue and abortifacient effects and toxic side effects of the essential oil. (7) That is referring to therapeutic dosing, and it is safe for pregnant women to enjoy rosemary as a culinary herb without concern. Essential oils are highly concentrated and are very different than whole plant preparations. 

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Rosemary may interact with anticoagulants, ACE inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, and anti-diabetic medications because of its actions on the cardiac and circulatory system. Consult a physician before adding clinical doses of rosemary to existing pharmaceuticals for these conditions.

COMBINATIONS: For improved cognitive function, use with gotu kola, bacopa, ginkgo biloba, and lion’s mane

HOMEOPATHIC USE: None listed in Boericke’s New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory, William Boericke

FLOWER ESSENCE USE: The flower of loyalty. Rosemary brings clarity of mind, and peace and balance to the emotions, enabling a meditative state. The remedy increases both physically and emotionally and enhances creativity. It symbolizes the blooming of higher thought form in the midst of activity (2). 

ETHNOBOTANY/FOLKLORE/HISTORY: A sprig of rosemary was often placed in the hands of the deceased at a funeral because it is a symbol of remembrance. Brides often wore rosemary at their weddings because it was also a symbol of happiness, loyalty and love. Legend has it that rosemary originally had white flowers which were changed to blue ones when the virgin Mary placed her cloak upon it while resting during her flight to Egypt.

REFERENCES:

  1. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Medical Economics Company Inc., Montvale, NJ. 2001
  2. Flower Power, Anne McIntyre. 1996
  3. The Earthwise Herbal: Volume I, Matthew Wood. 2008
  4. Medical Herbalism, David Hoffman. 2003
  5. Diego, MA, Aromatherapy positively affects mood, EEG patterns of alertness and math computations. lntJ Neurosci. 1998 Dec;96(3-4):217-24.
  6. The Modern Herbal Dispensatory, Thomas Easley & Steven Thorne. 2016
  7. Brinkner, F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy, OR 1998. p. 117 & 166
  8. Mills, S. and Bone, K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Churchhill Livingstone, New York, NY. 2000, p. 30.
  9. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Medical Economics Company Inc., Montvale, NJ. 2001
  10.  Lininger et al: Healthnotes: Clinical Essentials, Herb Monographs. Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA. 2001
  11. PDR for Herbal Medicines. Medical Economics Company Inc., Montvale, NJ. 2001

***This article is for educational purposes and is not intended to treat, diagnose or cure any disease. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA***

Lemon Balm

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Lemon balm is an uplifting and relaxing nervine and one of several herbs that is a physical embodiment of sunshine. This is why I am choosing to feature Melissa this time of year, because it helps to bring sunny energy into the cold, dark places

BOTANICAL NAME: Melissa officinalis

FAMILY: Lamiaceae 

PARTS USED: Leaf

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: Perennial mint family plant with bright green, crinkled leaves that have a fragrant lemon-like scent. It grows about two feet tall, with branching stems, oval or heart-shaped slightly toothed leaves held tightly in pairs at each stem joint. The inconspicuous white flowers, sometimes with a yellowish or pinkish tinge, bloom in the leaf axils throughout the summer and its rich nectar is attractive to bees. 

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Lemon balm loves full sun and well-drained soil and can be started from seed sown indoors about 4-6 weeks before last frost, although seeds may be slow to germinate if not stratified. Plants can be placed 16-18” apart when they reach 2-3” tall and grow quickly to form large clumps. They spread somewhat aggressively in optimal growing conditions (as with most mints) and self-seed. Cutting back hard after flowering will produce a fresh flush of leaves. It has few insect or disease problems and is rarely eaten by deer or rabbits. To harvest, cut several inches off top growth of the plats at flowering during the first year. On established plants, 2 or 3 cuttings may be made in a season. The leaves may be used fresh or dried, although dried leaves lose much of their aroma. Spread cuttings on screens in a dark, airy space to dry. 

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Sour, cool, aromatic 

CHEMICAL CONSTITUENTS: Volatile oils (0.1-0.2%: neral, geranial, caryophyllene oxide and a broad range of terpenes), flavonoids (glucoside and rhamnazin), polyphenolics (protocatechuic acid, caffeic acid, rosmarinic acid, and tannins), triterpenic acids 

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Carminative, relaxing nervine, antispasmodic, antidepressant, anxiolytic, diaphoretic, antimicrobial, antiviral, hepatic 

INDICATIONS: Melissa has been in use throughout European history for centuries. It was used as an herb for longevity, memory, fertility, rheumatism, as a sedative and spasmolytic, and to create happiness. Lemon balm is mildly relaxing, cheerful & uplifting. It brings joy to the heart and calms without sedating. Its sunny energy relieves S.A.D. (Seasonal affective disorder) and it can improve mood as well as cognition with as little as one dose in 1 hour. Consider lemon balm for mild mood dips, anxiety, insomnia, nervous indigestion, restlessness, inattention, mental decline, hyperactivity, heart palpitations, atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure associated with nervousness/stress and viral infections.

Hot water extracts have antiviral properties, providing relief for colds/viral respiratory infections and topically counters herpes virus/cold sore lesions, with antiviral activity confirmed in both laboratory and clinical trials. It is a cooling diaphoretic which can help reduce fevers. And the phenolic compounds bind with the viral receptors, blocking the virus from attaching to host cells and replicating. For herpes simplex type 1 and type 2, lemon balm oil can be applied topically in addition to consuming the tea or tincture internally.

Lemon balm’s hormone-regulating effects have been well-documented in the laboratory. Freeze-dried water-based extracts have been shown to inhibit many of the effects of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) on the thyroid gland. In laboratory studies, it interfered with thyroid stimulating hormone binding to plasma membranes and inhibited iodothyronine deiodinase in vitro. It also inhibits the receptor-binding and other biological activity of immunoglobulins in the blood of patients w/ Graves’ disease, a condition that causes hyperthyroidism. So, lemon balm is helpful for hyperactive thyroids, but it is not recommended for hypothyroid conditions, at least not in regular therapeutic doses (note that many of the indications described in the above paragraph such as restlessness, anxiety, hyperactivity and heart palpitations are symptoms of hyperthyroidism).

Find Lemon Balm in our Happy Hour Tea, Lavender-Lemon Tea, Sparkling Mind Tea, Women’s Tonic Tea, and Wise Woman Tea

As a carminative, lemon balm relieves dyspepsia, flatulence, bloating and intestinal cramping.  The volatile oils act on the interface between the digestive tract and the nervous system and it has been described by some herbalists as a trophorestorative for the nervous system similar in some ways to milky oats. It is effective for the cramping and spasm of irritable bowel, and gentle enough for gastritis and colicky infants. 

CONTRAINDICATIONS: use caution with hypothyroidism due to its antithyrotropic effects (in vitro). This doesn’t mean that people with an underactive thyroid can never consume lemon balm, they just don’t want to consume regular therapeutic doses of it. Some sources say that lemon balm is an emmenagogue and should be avoided by pregnant women, but occasional use of lemon balm in normal amounts is not likely to cause a miscarriage. Nevertheless, it is wise to use caution since we have no human trials to know for sure. Other contraindications include benign prostatic hyperplasia (animal studies show that one of the volatile oil constituents stimulate stromal growth and stimulate estrogen receptors- is this the concentrated monoterpene or the whole plant preparation that was used in these trials?) And lastly, some sources say to avoid during breast feeding because it can have an antiprolactin effect. (13)

PREPARATION & DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol (with glycerin), and oil. In general, long-term therapy is well tolerated. 

  • Tincture: Fresh leaf (1:2 85% alcohol, 10% glycerin); Dried leaf (1:5 65% alcohol, 10% glycerin); 2-5 ml 3x/ day (fresh plant tincture is best as it quickly loses its potency)
  • Infusion: 1 TBSP dried herb to 1 cup of boiling water. Infuse, covered, for 10-15 minutes. Infusion can be taken several times a day. 
  • Makes a lovely elixir when infused into brandy and honey.
  • Topical preparations work well for burns, blisters, and herpes outbreaks including cold sores. Infused oil of fresh plant can be turned into salve. A few drops of essential oil can be added to the salve/infused oil for added benefit.
  • Lemon balm also makes a lovely hydrosol. Despite the plant being strongly aromatic, there is not much oil in it, so large amounts of plant material are required to produce essential oil. This is why melissa essential oil is so expensive. 

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Barbiturates: increases the hypnotic effect of pentobarbital and the narcotic effect hexobarbital (animal studies).12

ETHNOBOTANY/HISTORY/FOLKLORE: In Greek mythology, the goddess of magic Hecate gave lemon balm to her daughters. The plant’s genus name, Melissa, comes from the Greek word mélissa or mélitta, which means “bee”. The Greeks also believed that lemon balm, or melissa, could promote long life.In ancient Rome, lemon balm was considered sacred in the temple of the Roman goddess Diana and was associated with the feminine, the moon, and water. In Ephesian culture, which worshiped goddesses and modeled its ceremonial life after the honeybee hive, lemon balm was a sacred herb in the Temple of Artemis because bees favored it. In Medieval times, lemon balm was used as a strewing herb and to reduce stress and anxiety, promote sleep, and improve appetite. It was also used to “transmit messages between lovers” because it represented sympathy, possibly due to its use in relaxing medicines. Elizabethan and London citizens included lemon balm in their tussy musy bouquets to help mask the smells of the street. 

REFERENCES:

  1. Parke DV, Rahman H. The Effects of Some Terpenoids and other Dietary Nutrients on Hepatic Drug-Metabolizing Enzymes. Biochem J. 113: 12P, 1969.
  2. Litvinenko, LI, et al., Planta Medica, 1975;27:372.
  3. Aschoff S, Angew Z, Phytotherap., 1981;2:219.
  4. Chalbicz J, Galasinski W. The Components of Melissa officinalis that Influence Protein Biosynthesis In Vitro. J of Pharm and Pharmac 1986; 38(11): 791-4.
  5. Sourgens H, et al., Planta Medica, 1982;45:78.
  6. Soulimani R, et al., Planta Medica, 1991;57:105
  7. Reiter M, Brandt W. Relaxant Effects on Tracheal and lleal Smooth Muscles of the Guinea Pig. Arzneimittel-Forschung 1985; 35 (1A): 408-14.
  8. Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modem Herbal Medicine. Churchill Livingstone, 2000. p. 172
  9. Woelbling RH and Leonhardt K, Phytomedicine, 1994;1:25.
  10. Mills S, Bone K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy: Modern Herbal Medicine.Churchill Livingstone,2000p.172
  11. Brinker, F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions. 3rd ed. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy, OR 2001. p 130, 278
  12. Brinker, F. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 3rd ed. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy, OR 2001. p.130
  13. Wisconsin Horticulture Division of Extension, Melissa officinalis https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/lemon-balm-melissa-officinalis/
  14. Medical Herbalism, David Hoffman, 2003.
  15. The Modern Herbal Dispensatory, Thomas Easley & Steven Thorne, 2016. 
  16. Body Into Balance, Maria Noel Groves, 2016.

***These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure any disease.***

Oats

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Oats, oat straw or milky stage oat tops, are one of the best restorative tonics for the nervous system and bones. It is highly nourishing, tastes delicious, and has no contraindications. I can’t think of a single person who doesn’t need both deep nourishment and nervous system support right now, so let me introduce you to the soothing, sensational, milky white medicine of Oats…

BOTANICAL NAME: Avena Sativa

COMMON NAME: Common oats, Milky oats, Grouts

FAMILY: Poaceae

PARTS USED: Straw (leaf & stalk; best for teas), milky-stage buds (fresh-plant tincture), mature seed (the part we eat)

BOTANICAL DESCRIPTION: An annual grass grain that can grow 14-40” tall that has unbranching, hollow, round stems that can be tufted or solitary. Has alternate, 2-ranked, linear and parallel-veined leaves growing upwards from the upper part of the stem and tapering to a point. It has wedge-shaped spikelets that grow on the plant all year round, containing small flowers or seeds depending on the time of year. Its flowers are androgynous, minute, and bisexual, with 3 stamens and 2 stigmas. The grain is the fruit and starts green, emits a milky ‘sap’ early in maturation (lasts only about a week – for the strongest, most medicinally active preparation, the seeds should be used fresh when they are in the milky stage), and if allowed to mature, hardens the milky sap into grain and eventually dries to yellowish tan when grains are harvested. 

GROWING/HARVESTING/PROCESSING: Oat seeds are planted in spring and/or late summer, after vegetable harvest, or under mature crops before mid-September. In colder zones, seeds can be planted in late summer or early fall for a winterkilled cover. They grow in many soil types, including loam and heavy soils, and are more tolerant of wet soil than barley. Broadcast seeds by hand and lightly rake them into soil at a depth of ½-1” in a weed-free planting area. Oats are typically rain-fed but may need to be irrigated if insufficient rain falls during the growing season (typically 3-4”). Timely sowing can help increase fertility, regulate water and air, and promote root development. 

Milky oats should be harvested when the milky sap can be extracted by squeezing the seed. This occurs at the very beginning of seed maturation, just before grain development and only lasts about a week so crop should be closely monitored to ensure successful harvest. Oat straw can be harvested after milky stage oats are harvested but before the plant fully develops grain and turns yellowish tan. Fully mature oats may be harvested when the field turns uniformly yellow, which is usually about 12 weeks after planting. To harvest, cut grass just above the soil with a sharp knife or scissors. To save dried seeds, cut or pull the seed heads from the plant and let them fully dry for a couple of days before storing in a dry container. 

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Sweet, bland, neutral-cool, moist

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Nutritive tonic, nervous system tonic (trophorestorative), demulcent, vulnerary, antidepressant, anxiolytic, emollient, one of the best herbal supports for nervous system under stress

INDICATIONS: Oats are a gentle tonic herb that support the nervous system without stimulating or sedating. Can help reduce fatigue and support nerve functioning over time. Great for anyone who is overworked or relies on caffeine to get through the day, for people who are frazzled, emotionally labile, and those who “burn the candle at both ends.” A classic milky oats symptom picture is someone who is anxious, exhausted, emotionally volatile, and looking a little dried out (dry skin, dry hair & nails) 

Oats may be helpful for exhaustion (physical and mental), chronic stress, heat and inflammation, dryness and itchiness (think itchy, dry, scaly skin eruptions), depression and anxiety, osteoporosis, undernourishment, sympathetic excess, adrenal burnout, weakness, convalescence from prolonged illness, insomnia, dry, brittle nails, skin, and hair, and even low libido (especially if this is due to exhaustion, dryness, depletion and stress).  Externally soothing for inflamed skin (oatmeal bath). High in silicon so it is excellent for tendons, skin, mucosa, and nerves. The silica in oat straw is excellent for connective tissue, tendons, skin, mucosa, and nerves.

As a nervous system trophorestorative (a revitalizing tonic to the nervous system), oats are helpful for a wide range of nerve disorders including neuralgia, herpes infections, depression, insomnia, and neurasthenia, but it is especially indicated for nerves that are frayed from stress or nervous exhaustion due to overwork or chronic stress. Oats can help us feel grounded and calm amidst the continuous daily stress that we face from work, family, poor diet, alcohol, drugs, environmental toxins, etc. They are food for the nervous system- calming, but not sedating. Oats repairs damage to the myelin sheath, which covers the nerve fibers.

Susan weed describes Avena as “upping the amperage of the nervous system so you can carry more voltage.” By strengthening the nervous system, oats improve sensitivity to touch, which is why they have a reputation as an aphrodisiac. For sexual neurasthenia; for people who work hard, are tired at night, have low libido, and who tire easily during sex.

Avena is both a trophorestorative and tonic. Tonic herbs are generally indicated in convalescence, debilitating conditions with or without anorexia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Taken over time, Avena will increase stamina and strength. Over time, Avena lifts the spirits and is a nourishing tonic that is often combined with Skullcap. Avena is theorized to stimulate the limbic system and motor ganglia thereby increasing energy level and one’s sense of wellbeing.

Oats can also help with ADHD and OCD behaviors and can help to reduce withdrawal symptoms from various drugs/addictive substances including nicotine, caffeine and anxiety medications (combines well with skullcap for this as well). They help to keep the nervous system on a steady keel. Fresh plant tincture is best for this.  Oats are also a cardiac tonic and nourish the heart and blood vessels. The mature seed has been shown to reduce cholesterol levels. 

  • Key indications: Exhaustion, tired but wired, nervous debility and depression from chronic stress
  • Keywords: soothing, nourishing, balancing, building, restorative

CONTRAINDICATIONS:  Normally extremely safe for people of any age. Food Grade Herb- no toxicity. Suitable for pregnancy and nursing. Oat straw and milky oat tops are naturally gluten-free. The only concern regarding gluten is for oat grain that has been processed in a facility that also processes wheat.

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol; minerals soluble in vinegar; alkaloids in fresh buds are best extracted in alcohol. Long-term therapy is the norm.

  • Tincture of fresh milky stage oat flower (1:5 in 25% alcohol); Take 3-5 ml three times a day (David Hoffman)
  • Infusion of dried leaf or flower, use 1-2 TBSP per cup of water; infused for 4-8 hours. Drink 2-3 cups a day.
  • Bath soak: add oat straw infusion directly to bathwater
  • Makes a great base for a tea and combines well with other nervines

COMBINATIONS: 

  • For depression, may combine with skullcap, damiana and lavender 
  • Oat straw blends well with other nervines as a base for teas  
  • For withdrawal from nicotine, use fresh oat tincture with skullcap and lobelia.

HOMEOPATHY USE: Has a selective action on the brain and nervous system, favorably influencing their nutritive function. Nervous exhaustion, sexual debility and the morphine habit call for this remedy in rather material dosage. Best tonic for debility after exhausting diseases. Nervous tremors in the aged; chorea, paralysis agitans, epilepsy. Post-diphtheritic paralysis. Rheumatism of heart. Colds. Acute coryza (20 drop doses in hot water, hourly for a few doses). Alcoholism. Sleeplessness, especially in alcoholics. Bad effects of morphine habit. Nervous states in many female problems. 

FLOWER ESSENCE USE: Oat flower essence “is the remedy for people who feel they want to do something worthwhile with their lives but don’t know which direction to go. They tend to drift from one thing to another without finding a true path. They become frustrated and downcast as a result.” (The Bach Center)

ETHNOBOTANY/FOLKLORE/HISTORY:  Oats are the archetype of fertility, the symbol of Demeter. Ancient legend says that Gaia herself was weaned on the milk of this flowering plant. We’ve all heard the phrase “to sow your wild oats”, which means to spread your seed. It’s a symbol of virility. 

REFERENCES:

  1. The Herbal Handbook, A User’s Guide to Medical Herbalism, David Hoffman, 1998.
  2. The Practice of Traditional Western Herbalism, Matthew Wood, 2004.
  3. https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/2015/09/13/avena-sativa/
  4. New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory, William Boericke, 2011.

*** This article is for educational purposes only. This information is not meant to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. ***

Burdock

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As we transition into Autumn our herbal allies can help assist our body and minds and allow us to stay grounded during times of change. Our ally, Burdock, is nurturing and moistening and a great ally to help us move from the summer season into fall.

BOTANICAL NAME: Burdock (Arctium lappa)

COMMON NAMES: Lappa, Gobo, Fox’s Clote, Thorny Burr, Beggar’s Buttons, Love Leaves, Philanthropinum, Personata, Happy Major, Clot-Bur.

FAMILY: Asteraceae

PARTS USED: Root, stalk, leaves, seeds

DESCRIPTION: Burdock is native to Europe and Asia but has now naturalized in North America and Australia.  It has large wavy leaves and round heads of purple flowers. It is enclosed in a globular involucre (a series of bracts beneath or around a flower or flower cluster) of long stiff scales with hooked tips, the scales being often interwoven with a white, cottony substance. The whole plant is a dull, pale green, the stem about 3 to 4 feet and branched, rising from a biennial root. The lower leaves are very large, on long, solid footstalks, furrowed above, frequently more than a foot long heart-shaped and of a gray color on them under surfaces from the mass of fine down with which they are covered. The upper leaves are much smaller, more egg-shaped in form and not so densely clothed beneath with the gray down.

The plant varies considerably in appearance, and by some botanists, various subspecies or even separate species have been described, the variations being according to the size of the flowerheads and of the whole plant, the abundance of the whitish cotton-like substance that is sometimes found on the involucres, or the absence of it, the length of the flower stalks, etc. The flowerheads are found expanded during the latter part of the summer and well into the autumn: all the florets are tubular, the stamens dark purple and the styles whitish. The plant owes its dissemination greatly to the little hooked prickles of its involucre, or burrs, which adhere to everything with which they come in contact and attach themselves to coats of animals which can carry them to a distance.  

Burdock is a biennial herb which means that it grows roots and leaves the first year and the second year sends up its flowering stocks and flowers and sets seed, after which the plant dies.

HABITAT/HARVESTING/ PROPAGATION: Burdock is currently cultivated in many countries around the world. Arctium is often found growing along roadsides, in open fields, and abandoned lots. In the first year of growth the leaves can be harvested and used as a food plant or in herbal preparations. In the Autumn of the first year the root is dug and also used as a food or in herbal preparations. Burdock root can be very hard to dig up as the root can grow down to 3 ft in depth! Burdock also tends to position itself in rocky areas with the roots twisting around rocks in the soil making it extra hard to dig up the whole root. In the second year the stalks and flowers/seeds can be harvested and used in food or herbal preparations. Sometimes the root is also harvested in the early spring of the second year before the plant begins to set flowers.

 The seeds of A. lappa are used in TCM, under the name Niupangzi and are harvested at maturity in the fall of the second year’s growth. The seeds need to be stored in a dry and cool place.

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Cooling, moistening, nourishing, bitter, sweet, oily (root); seed is warm, sweet, bitter, pungent, and diffusive.

TISSUE STATE: Dry/atrophy, Stagnation/torpor 

CONSTITUENTS: Inulin (45-50%), mucilage, sugars, Lappin-a, fixed and volatile oils, tannic acid, protein, minerals, vitamins, lignans (arctigenin, arctiin, matairesinol), carbohydrates, pectin, caffeic acid derivatives chlorogenic acid, isochlorogenic acid1

SOLUBILITY: Water, alcohol, oil, glycerin

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Alterative, diuretic, diaphoretic, demulcent, anti-scorbutic, hepatic, anti-mutagenic, aperient, immunostimulant, anti-inflammatory

USES AND INDICATIONS: The root is one of the best blood purifiers. Burdock cools and calms skin conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils and burns. It is also effective at easing joint conditions such as rheumatism, arthritis and gout. Burdock aids liver, gastrointestinal and kidney function, all of which are important for skin health and blood purification. It is also a superior strengthener of the immune system, and useful for chronic fatigue or suppressed immune systems. It is said to inhibit tumor growth and the formation of cancerous cells and protects the lungs and DNA from radiation damage. Overall, burdock binds and removes heavy metals and chemicals. In addition, it aids in replenishing intestinal flora after a round of antibiotics or Candida/yeast overgrowth.

Burdock root contains high amounts of inulin and mucilage. This may explain its soothing effects on the gastrointestinal tract. Bitter constituents in the root may also explain the traditional use of burdock to improve digestion. Additionally, burdock has been shown to reduce liver damage in animal studies.4 This has not been confirmed in human studies, however.

The high inulin content makes Burdock a suitable food or nutritive medicine for persons with sugar problems. Burdock root oil extract, also called Bur oil, is popular in Europe as a scalp treatment applied to improve hair strength, shine and body, help reverse scalp conditions such as dandruff, and combat hair loss.  

An infusion of the leaves is useful to impart strength and tone to the stomach, for some forms of long-standing indigestion. When applied externally as a poultice, the leaves provide relief to bruises and inflamed surfaces generally. Burdock leaves are used by some burn care workers for pain management and to speed healing time in natural burn treatment. Burn care workers hold that it eases dressing changes and appears to impede bacterial growth on the wound site and that it also provides a great moisture barrier. 

From the seeds, both a medicinal tincture and a fluid extract are prepared, of benefit in chronic skin diseases. The infusion or decoction of the seeds is employed in edema, especially in cases where there is co-existing derangement of the nervous system and is considered by many to be specific for all affections of the kidneys. The seeds are also antibacterial and used in TCM to expel wind heat, remedy sore throats, irritating coughs, tonsillitis, colds and influenza.

Because of Arctium’s moistening, cooling, and alterative effects on the body, it is a great herb to work with as we transition from the hot months of summer into the cooler and dryer days of Autumn. Burdock can help move trapped heat from the summer season out of the body. Autumn months can often be windy and dry and Arctium can help keep us grounded and moisturized as we move through this season. Burdock will help keep our immune systems strong as we begin to face more viruses and bacteria in the upcoming colder months.

Five main uses:

  • Blood purification
  • Aids digestion, improving liver, kidney and gastrointestinal function
  • Stimulates bile production
  • Poultice to remedy trauma impact: bruising, inflammation, impede bacteria growth
  • All affections of kidney function

CONTRAINDICATIONS: None has been reported, although a gentle approach with this herb is advisable since it can be a powerful detoxifier in some individuals.

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE: Soluble in water, alcohol, and glycerin
Infusion: 2 tsp dried seed: 10 fl oz hot water, decoct 15 minutes, steep 30 minutes. Drink 1-3 cups/day
Tincture: Fresh root or seed (1:2, 95% alcohol; Dried root or seed (1:5, 50% alcohol) 1-5 mL 3x/day
Glycerite: Dried root (1:5) 2-10 mL 2x/day.
Capsule: 1,000-3,000 mg, 1-2x/day

HOMEOPATHIC/FLOWER ESSENCE USE: In homeopthay, Burdock is very important in skin therapeutics. Eruptions on the head, face, and neck; pimples; acne. Styes and ulcerations on the edge of the eyelids. Profuse and frequent micturition. Crops of boils and styes. Energetically in a flower essence can be helpful when you are caught up in deep old anger, especially if the anger is directed at someone, usually an authority figure. Although the anger may be triggered by a current person or situation, the origin for this quality of anger is from a wound earlier in this life or a past life. This anger may also be related to an experience of grief or loss.

ETHNOBOTANY/HISTORY/FOLKLORE: The name of the genus, Arctium, is derived from the Greek arktos, a bear, in allusion to the roughness of the burs, lappa, the specific name, being derived from a word meaning ‘to seize.’ Another source derives the word lappa from the Celtic llap, a hand, on account of its prehensile properties. The plant gets its name of ‘Dock’ from its large leaves; the ‘Bur’ is supposed to be a contraction of the French bourre, from the Latin burra, a lock of wool, such is often found entangled with it when sheep have passed by the growing plants. Burdock was written about by Shakespeare and Tolstoy. After taking his dog for a walk one day in the early 1940s, George de Mestral, a Swiss inventor, became curious about the seeds of the burdock plant that had attached themselves to his clothes and to the dog’s fur. Under a microscope, he looked closely at the hook-and-loop system that the seeds use to hitchhike on passing animals aiding seed dispersal, and he realized that the same approach could be used to join other things together. The result was Velcro.

REFERENCES:

  • A Modern Herbal: http://www.botanical.com.  
  • Making Plant Medicine, Richo Cech.  
  • The Practice of Traditional Western Herbalism, Matthew Wood.  
  • Witches Heal, Billie Potts.  
  • Herbal Rituals, Judith Berger. 
  • Tree Frog Farm 
  • New Manual of Homeopathic Materia Medica with Repertory, William Boericke.
  • Herbal PDR, Medical Economics Company Inc., Montvale, NJ. 2001.
  • Cook, WM. The Physio-Medical Dispensatory: a Treatise on Therapeutics, Materia Medica and Pharmacy. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy, OR 1985 p.
  • Felter HW, Lloyd JU. King’s American Dispensatory, 18th ed. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy, OR 1983 p.
  • Mills, S. and Bone, K. Principles and Practice of Phytotherapy. Churchhill Livingstone, New York, NY. 2000
  • Lininger et al: Healthnotes, Clinical Essentials, Prima Publishing, Rocklin, CA. 2001.
  • Planta Medica 1990; 56:659
  • Brinker, Francis ND. Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions, 2nd ed. Eclectic Medical Publications, Sandy Oregon 1998. p. 45

***This article is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease.***

Black Cohosh

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Meet Black Cohosh, a native woodland perennial and one of my top ten favorite herbs. You may have heard of this plant as a “menopause herb” and it is a great ally for hormonal transitions, but it has many other virtues including relieving arthritis and rheumatic pain, lower back pain, whiplash, and menstrual cramps!

Black Cohosh – Actaea racemosa - United Plant Savers

BOTANICAL NAME: Cimicifuga racemosa, Actaea racemosa

COMMON NAME(S): Black Snake Root, Rattle Root, Squaw Root, Bugbane

FAMILY: Ranunculaceae

PARTS USED: Root and rhizome

DESCRIPTION: Native perennial; non-aggressive, non-invasive. 3-8ft. Leaves thrice-divided; sharply toothed; terminal leaflet 3-lobed, middle lobe largest. Flowers white, in very long spikes; May – Sept. Tufts of stamens are conspicuous

HABITAT/HARVESTING/PROPAGATION: Black Cohosh grows in rich woods. Southern Ontario to Georgia.; West to Arkansas, Missouri and Wisconsin. The roots are unearthed with the rhizome in the Fall after the fruits have ripened. They should be cut lengthwise and dried carefully. Black cohosh is most easily propagated by dividing the rhizomes in spring or fall. Plants can also be started indoors from seed or seed can be directly sown into the ground, but rhizome divisions provide a more uniform plant stand and allow for a faster harvestable root. Black Cohosh is on the endangered species list and is heavily encouraged to propagate!

ENERGETICS AND TASTE: Cool, Sweet, Acrid, Bitter

TISSUE STATE: Wind/Tension, Damp Stagnation

CONSTITUENTS: Triterpene glycosides (actein, cimicifugoside, cimifugine, racemoside, cimiracemosides), isoferulic aice, salicylic acid, volatile oils, tannins (Hoffman)

SOLUBILITY:  Water, alcohol (best), glycerine

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES: Emmenagogue, antispasmodic, anti inflammatory, antirheumatic, alterative, nervine, hypotensive 

USES & INDICATIONS: Black Cohosh is a valuable remedy for many systems of the body. A fantastic relaxant and normalizer of the female reproductive system by lowering painful or inducing delayed menstruation, relieves cramping pain during pregnancy or associated with menstruation. It is very effective against rheumatic pain including that of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, muscle pain, neurological pain, sciatica, and neuralgia. It is antispasmoic and anti-inflammatory, which make a wonderful combination for rheumatic complaints. It is also alterative, meaning that it supports the channels of elimination and can keep the body’s detoxification mechanisms working optimally. Alteratives used to be called “blood purifiers” because they can keep the blood from becoming too thick or congested. 

Black Cohosh helps to ease both physical and mental changes associated with menopause and perimenopause such as hot flashes, headaches, vertigo, irritability, sleep disturbances and depressive moods. The phytoestrogens that black cohosh contains act as estrogen modulators and can be helpful for both estrogen deficiency and excess. Black Cohosh has also been successfully administered in women younger than 40 for treatment of hormonal deficits associated with ovariectomy and hysterectomy (3).

Black Cohosh may lower blood pressure and enhance circulation. It relaxes the smooth muscles of the uterus, digestive tract and blood vessels. It also relaxes It helps to improve dark, gloomy depression and relieves dark, twisted emotional congestion (2). It increases the flow and circulation of Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). That combined with its antispasmodic effect on the muscles makes black cohosh a specific remedy for whiplash.

Five main uses:

  1. Relieving menopausal symptoms
  2. Antispasmodic, especially of uterus 
  3. Stagnant menstruation
  4. Dark, gloomy depression
  5. Rheumatic pain

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Pregnancy and lactation, use cautiously. In large doses, it can cause headaches, vomiting, and dizziness. Reports of black cohosh toxicity are due to adulteration of black cohosh with bugbane and other look-alikes. There is also bad information on the internet that warns against using phytoestrogenic herbs like black cohosh in cases of estrogen-dependent cancers because they can increase their growth. This is not true. It has been well-established for decades that phytoestrogens work as both estrogen agonists and antagonists and have a modulating effect on estrogen receptors. In fact, phytoestrogens can help to block the binding of the stronger estrogens like estradiol or xenoestrogens and be very helpful as part of a treatment protocol for breast cancer and other estrogen-dependent cancers. 

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:
Decoction : 1 tsp : 8 fl oz water, decoct 20 minutes, steep 40 minutes. 2-4 oz, 3x a day
Tincture : Fresh root (1:2 80% alcohol), Dried root (1:5 80% alcohol),  1 mL 3x a day
(Fresh root is far superior to dried root)
Glycerite : Dried root (1:5) 0.5-1 mL 3x a day
Capsule : 250-500 mg, 2-3x a day

HOMEOPATHIC/FLOWER ESSENCE: The Homeopathic remedy has an effect on cerebrospinal, muscular system, uterus and ovaries. Indicated in pains associated with rheumatism, uterine cramps and migraine. It helps in treating menstrual disorders accompanied with severe pain in the ovarian region. It is also useful in relieving soreness of the muscles and limbs and helps in reducing involuntary jerking.
The flower essence : Knowing and trusting in one’s inner strength and resources. Helps to promote the honesty and courage to deal with and heal past experiences of abuse and oppression. Releasing entanglements. Bright strong sense of self-emerging.

ETHNOBOTANY/HISTORY/FOLKLORE/
The American Indians have given us ten times as many female remedies as any other culture. Black cohosh was used for menstrual problems and as a parturient in the late stages of labor. The name “cohosh” seems to come from the Algonquin word associated with pregnancy. Rafinesque introduced it to medical literature and it was adopted by the early physio-medical and eclectic physicians. Dr. C.J. Hemple gave it a proving in 1856 and it was adopted into homeopathy.(5) Black Snake Root refers to its past use in North America to treat snake bites, including that of the rattlesnake. Also known as bugbane (in Latin cimicifuga means “to chase insects away”) (4 )

COMBINATIONS:

Black Cohosh, Chaste Tree, Sage, Licorice and Motherwort for relieving hot flashes and night sweats (1)
Black Cohosh and Night Blooming Cereus for “doom and gloom depression”(Our great Eclectics)
Yucca root, Devil’s claw, Black Cohosh root, Prickly Ash Bark, Ginger root, Licorice Root for Good General Arthritis Formula (4)

REFERENCES:

  1. Herbal Therapeutics, David Winston
  2. The Modern Herbal Dispensary, Thomas Easley
  3. Medical Herbalism, David Hoffman
  4. Planetary Herbalism, Michael Tierra
  5. The Book of Herbal Wisdom, Matthew

*** This article is for educational purposes only. These statements have not been reviewed by the FDA and this information is not intended to treat, cure or prevent any disease. ***

Plantain

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250+ Organic Broadleaf Plantain Seeds ~ Plantago major *Free US shipping* | eBayPlantain is plentifully growing everywhere in nature here in West Virginia.  You can see it flourishing in yards, roadsides, fields; wherever humans create soil compaction.  It’s a very easy plant to identify, its leaves have vertical striations reminding me of the rind of a watermelon.  The leaves grow close to the ground in a wheel like formation and its flower heads are long, narrow, and green.  This plant is my personal favorite go to first aid remedy.  You can chew a few of the leaves to create an herbal poultice and apply to your skin to draw out infection and debris from the surface of a wound.

BOTANICAL NAME: Plantago major. P. laceolata

COMMON NAME(S):  Narrow leaf plantain (P.lanceolata), ribwort plantain (P.lanceolata), greater plantain (P. major), psyllium (P.ovara) all 34 species of Plantago genus are edible & medicinal, white man’s foot, white man’s footsteps, English man’s foot, waybread, snakeweed, soldiers, kemps, fireleaves, ripple grass, broadleaf, cuckoo’s beard, rat tail. (Planta means ‘foot’ in Latin)

FAMILY: Plantaginaceae

PARTS USED:  Primarily leaf, but also seed and root.

ENERGETICS AND TASTES: Bland, bitter, astringent, demulcent, cooling

ACTIONS AND PROPERTIES:  Alterative, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antivenom, astringent, demulcent, diuretic, moistening, expectorant, hemostatic, vulnerary.

CONSTITUENTS:  Leaf: Iridoid glycosides (2.5% including aucubin, catalpol); tannins (6.5%); polysaccharides, (galactose, xylose, arabnose, and rhamnose (E mucilage), mucilage (2%); alkaloids (plantagonine, asperuloside); flavonoids (baicalein, apigenin, scutellarin, nepetin, hispidulin, luteolin, plantagoside) (8).

Mark Pederson, author of Nutritional Herbology, writes that plantain seed is high in calcium, fiber, protein (amino acids) and fat (fatty acids, including Omega-3s) as well as silicon, sodium and zinc (4). The seed oat is made up of 30% mucilage, which absorbs toxins in the digestive tract and supports elimination by lubricating the colon (5).

DESCRIPTION:  Both plantago major and lanceolata have a rosette of smooth-edged green leaves ribbed with long, parallel veins that are more prominent on the underside.  Ribwort plantain (P.lanceolata) has longer, hairy, narrow leaves that taper gradually to their narrow bases and very short stalks.  They have short, dense, blackish flower heads (with creaming stamens) on leafless stems.  In comparison, Greater Plantain (P.major) has broader leaves which are hairless or with short hair and taper more abruptly into distinct leaf stalks which can be as long as the leaves themselves.  The flower head is long, narrow and green (brown when dead).  Plantago major’s flower spike extends down almost the entire length of its stem (1).

HABITAT & PROPAGATION:  Plantain is native to Europe and Asia, but is naturalized throughout North America & Australia.  Plantain grows in dry, disturbed and depleted soils, in short, grazed grasslands, along hedgerows and roadsides, and on waste grounds (1).  Plantain is an excellent cover drop for soils harmed by extractive agriculture or repeated trampling.  It is an early succession crop that thrives wherever humans create soil compaction, helping to prevent erosion, break up compaction and replenish the top soil until others can arrive.

Propagates easily by seed.  Harvest the young leaves anytime of year, buy ideally in the late spring before the flower.  The seed heads may be gathered when ripe.

SOLUBILITY:  water, alcohol, oil

USES & INDICATIONS:  Most people first come to know plantain as a first aid herb to alleviate itching and pain from bee stings or mosquito bites.  It is indeed a wonderful ally for first aid including bites, cuts, scrapes, stings, rashes and puncture wounds.  It soothes, cools, disinfects, staunches bleeding and speeds tissue healing.  Plantain also has an extra special action of drawing infections or debris to the surface of a wound.  It can help draw out splinters, stingers, venom and other poisons (think spider bites, bee stings, even snake bites-all of which contain venom).  It is effective as a spit poultice, and can also be added to salves, medicated clays, or used as a wash or compress.

As a vulnerary it can help to heal tissues internally as well.  I love plantain leaf as a tea/infusion for leaky guy syndrome.  Its astringency and vulnerary actions help to heal the gut lining, reduce inflammation, soothe the irritated tissues through its demulcent action, and help keep the “bad” microbes in check if they are out of balance.  It also makes a good tea for gastric ulcers (along with chamomile).

The demulcent action can also be helpful for constipation.  Here the seed is best as it contains much more mucilage than the leaf, but the leaf can also be used in combination with other bulk laxatives or tonics for the colon.  It can have a supportive role in a formula for any kind of -‘itis’, including colitis, diverticulitis, gastritis, bronchitis, cystitis, or gingivitis.

For bronchitis, it is most effective for the dry, irritated types of coughs.  For cystitis, it is effective as a tea (teas are best for treating gut or kidneys), especially if it prepared as a cold infusion to extract more mucilage.  This will make it more soothing to the mucosal membranes of the urinary tract.  Its drawing action will exert an effect here, and it will cool, soothe, and moisten at the same time as it treats the infection.  The diuretic action combined with its aucubin content supports the kidney’s production and elimination of uric acid (7).

PREPARATION & DOSAGE:  For internal use, plantain can be prepared as a tea or a tincture.  Hot tea is preferable when treating ailments of the digestive or respiratory tracts.  Cold infusions will be more specific for kidneys and cystitis.

A wide range of dosage exists and depends on the type of ailment you are trying to treat.  In acute situations, 1-2 ml of tincture or 4-6 cups of infusion per day would not be too much.  To make an infusion, use 1 TBSP of dried leaves and steep at least 15 minutes, up to 10 hours.

For topical use, you can use plantain as a fresh plant poultice, infused into oil, infused in rubbing alcohol as a liniment, or prepared as a strong infusion for use as a wash or compress.

The seeds can be stirred into water or blended into smoothies as a bulk laxative.

COMBINATIONS: 

  • For minor cuts/scrapes/burns: plantain leaf with comfrey leaf and calendula flower infused oils.
  • To stop bleeding and treat puncture wounds: plantain leaf and yarrow prepared as a wash or compress.
  • For poison ivy or contact dermatitis: plantain leaf and jewelweed.
  • For infections: combine with goldenseal, yarrow, and echinacea.
  • For diarrhea: use seed, possibly alongside yellow dock or triphala.
  • For cystitis: plantain leaf with uva ursi, marshmallow root and juniper berry.
  • For bronchitis/dry coughs: use with elecampane, licorice and thyme.
  • For ulcers: combine with chamomile, and/or slippery elm, marshmallow root or licorice.

REFERENCES:

  1. Plants and Habitats, Ben Averis
  2. Zevin, Igor Vilevich. A Russian Herbal: Traditional Remedies for Health and Healing.  Rochester, Vermont: Healing Arts Press, 1997. Pgs.].
  3. “Plants in the Saxon World.” PSU Medieval Garden. Web.  Accessed 10 Feb. 2017.
  4. Nutritional Herbology, Mark Pedersen.
  5. The Wild Wisdom of Weeds, Katrina Blair.
  6. Meteria Medica.  Tehran:  Tehran University of Medical Sciences; 2005. Dioscorides’s
  7. Tierra, Michael.  The Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books, 1980.  Pgs 179-180.
  8. Plantain monograph, Materia Medica Monthly produced by the Sajah Popham at the School of Evolutionary Herbalism.

This article is for educational purposes only. This information has not been reviewed by the FDA and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease.