A Village Herbal

A Village

Herbal

by Danny Hignett with photographs by Sally Proctor A Bampton Archive publication page 1

Front

DISCLAIMER Neither Bampton Community Archive nor the author can take any responsibility for any adverse effects from the use of plants. Always seek advice from a professional before using a plant medicinally.

UNDER NO CIRCUMSTANCE ARE THE RECIPES CONTAINED HEREIN ANY SUBSTITUTION FOR A DOCTORS ADVICE. PLEASE CONSULT A PHYSICIAN AND/OR AN HERBALIST IF POSSIBLE BEFORE INGESTING OR USING ANY OF THE RECIPES OR REMEDIES IN THIS BOOK. Information on the traditional uses and properties of herbs are provided on this site is foreducational use only, and is not intended as medical advice. Every attempt has been made for accuracy, but none is guaranteed. Many traditional uses and properties of herbs have not been validated. If you have any serious health concerns, you should always check with your health care practitioner before self-administering herbs.

A Village

Herbal ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The Bampton Archive would like to thank Danny Hignett CACDP1, Cert. (Herbal Studies) for writing the well-researched herbal.

For assistance in research:- Nick Hobley, David Pirie and Ah Nya Plant, all of Napier University, Edinburgh.

Sally Proctor for photographs taken throughout the year.

Tony Page for the original design, layout and printing and Ah Nya Plant MSc; BSc (Hons) RGN; RCNT for advice in the layout of the monographs

ALKANET Scientific Name: Pentaglottis sempervirens.

Synonym/s: Orchanet; Spanish Bugloss; Enchusa.

Common Name: Alkanet Plant Family: Boraginaceae.

Part/s Used: Whole plant.

History: Alkanet has a long history of use with many traditional herbalists and is mentioned in Dr. Robert Thornton’s New Family Herbal, published in England in 1810. Botanical Description: Clusters of bright blue flowers grow in the axils of broad hispid leaves. The plant grows up to 3 feet tall. The lower leaves are stalked and can be eight inches in length. The flowers are followed by minute nut-like fruits.

Habitat/Harvesting: Alkanet thrives in all kinds of temperate environments. Harvest the whole herb during the flowering period and dry thoroughly in shade.

Range: Fairly widespread in the South of England where it can self-seed and be invasive.

Constituents: Alkanet contains the following alkaloids: cynoglossin, consolidin, consolicin, tannins (up to 9 per cent), and numerous minor and little-known substances such as saccharides, a dye, organic acids, mucilages and mineral salts.

Medical Properties: Although alkanet is little used today, either in commercial or folk medicine, it remains quite popular for beauty care. The pulped fresh herb can be used in the form of a herb pack to cool and soothe sensitive or irritated skin. The pulp can also be applied to painful, swollen areas and all types of insect bite, as it relieves the pain, reduces swelling and stops itching. Baths with the addition of an alkanet decoction (200 g per litre of hot water extracted for 20 minutes) are recommended for soothing irritated skin, in eczema and for opening clogged pores.

Medical Applications: ‘As vinegar: the morphy and the leprosy. As an ointment: ‘Helps old ulcers, hot inflammations, burnings by common fire and St. Anthony’s fire, by antipathy to Mars.

(Culpeper, p19). To the privities: it draws forth the dead child; Helps yellow jaundice, spleen and gravel in the kidneys. Stays the flux in the belly; kills worms; helps the fits of the mother. (Culpeper, p19). Dioscorides: It helps such as are bitten by venomous beasts: inwardly or applied to the wound. Decoction in wine: strengthens the back, and eases pain thereof. Helps bruises and falls.

A gallant remedy to drive out small-pox and measles. Ointment for green wounds, pricks and thrusts.’ The main use of the alkanet in recent traditional herbal medicine was as an expectorant.

It was also used as an emollient - a substance that softens and soothes the skin. However, in spite of traditional claims, there is little clinical evidence to support the value of this herb as either an expectorant or an emollient.

Specific medical uses: (thrice daily): Dr. Thornton’s Family Herbal, published in England in 1810 notes that “a decoction of the leaves and root of the alkanet is advantageous in inveterate coughs, and all disorders of the chest. ...the expressed juice is given with great success in pleurisy.

Toxicology: none known Side-effects: none known Contra-indications & Cautions: none known.

Herb-Drug Interactions: none known.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Avoid.

Comments: ‘Under dominion of Venus.’

Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: None.

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BINDWEED Scientific Name: Convolvulus arvensis Synonym/s: Bearwind; Cornbind; Devil’s Garters; Hedge Bells; Jack-run’-in’-the’-Country; Ropebind; Withywind. (Grieve, p219).

Peduncle: ‘A stalk of a flower or inflorescence’ (Usher, p269) Common Names: Field Bindweed.

Plant Family: Convolvulaceae.

Part/s Used: Roots, root resin. (Grieve, p219).

History: From the Latin convolvo (to intertwine). (Grieve, p220).

Botanical Description: Plant with a climbing stem; Flower bracts are very small and low in the peduncle; Flowers pink and white. (Keble Martin, p61). ‘Leaves are arrow-shaped in form. They are placed singly along the stem at very regular intervals. From the leaf axils spring the flower-stalks, one to each leaf all up the stem. At the bottom of the flower are what appear to be the mouths of five tubes, or pipes, running downwards, the tubes being formed by the flattened filaments of the stamens being joined to the corolla tube and yet projecting ridge-like into the flower. Flowers with tubes like these are known as ‘revolver flowers’, because of the resemblance to the barrels of a revolver. A Bindweed stem will make a complete revolution in about 1¾ hours, which explains the rapidity of its growth. Bindweed is very sensitive to weather conditions, always closing in rain, to open again with the return of sunshine.’ (Grieve, p220).

Habitat: Cultivated ground, widespread and common. (Keble Mar tin, p61).

Range: Throughout Europe, in Siberia, China, Persia and India, in North America where it has been introduced, and Chile. (Grieve, p220). Medical Properties: Purgative. (Grieve, p103).

Medical Applications: Jaundice; Dropsy. (Grieve, p103).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): ‘Best method of administering it being to bruise the roots and give their expressed juice in strong beer.’ (Grieve, p103).

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BROAD LEAF PLANTAIN Scientific Name: Plantago major.

Synonym/s: Ripple Grass; Waybread; Waybroad; Snakeweed; Englishman’s Foot; White Man’s Foot; (Anglo-Saxon) Weybroed; (Gaelic) Slan- Lus. (Grieve, p640).

Common Names: Great Plantain; Broad-leaved Plantain; Common Plantain.

Plant Family: Plantaginaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried leaves.

History: ‘The Greeks and Romans used it for skin infections. Shakespeare refers to it often as a healer. It has been used as a folk remedy for toothache, earache and as an antidote to poisons’.

(McIntyre, p118); Used ‘in cases of bites from venomous creatures’. (Grieve, p641).

Botanical Description: ‘Native British herb, with a basal rosette of leaves. The flower grows on a long cylindrical spike up to 50cm tall, green-brown with lilac and yellow stamens protruding’.

(BHMA, p164). ‘The drug is without odour: the leaves are saline, bitterish and acrid to the taste; the root is saline and sweetish’. (Grieve, p640).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Gathered during flowering period’. (BHMA, p164). ‘Found growing in lawns, footpaths, cultivated land and waste ground’. (McIntyre, p118). Dry rapidly to avoid discoloration.

(Hoffman, p224).

Constituents: Ascorbic and protcatechuic acids, Glycosides (including aucubin), Mucilage. (BHMA, p164); Silica. (McIntyre, p118); Chlorogenic, silicic and ursolic acids. (Hoffman, p224).

Medical Properties: Deobstruent, Refrigerant, Vulnerary. (Grieve, p640); Astringent, Demulcent, Expectorant. (Hoffman, p224); Antiseptic. (McIntyre, p118); Diuretic, Anti-haemorrhagic. (BHMA, p164).

Medical Applications: Cystitis with haematuria, Haemorrhoids. (BHMA, p164); Anti-allergenic, Diarrhoea, Gastritis. (McIntyre, p118); Coughs, Mild bronchitis. (Hoffman, p224).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried leaves 2.0 – 4.0g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. (BHMA, p164).

Comments: Culpeper recommends a decoction of the root for the above conditions. ‘It is under the command of Venus, and cures the head by antipathy to Mars, and the privities by sympathy to Venus…The juice mixed with oil of roses, and the temples and the forehead anointed therewith, easeth the pains of the head proceeding from heat, and helpeth lunatic and frantic persons very much…The plantains are singular good wound herbs to heal fresh or old wounds or sores, either inward or outward.’ (Culpeper, p285- 287).

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BRYONY (A SCHEDULE 3 HERB see glossary) Scientific name: Bryonia dioica Synonym/s: Wild Vine; English Mandrake; Wild Hops; Wild Nep; Ladies’ Seal; Tamus; Tetterbury.

Dioecious: Having male and female sex organs on separate individuals. (Usher, p117).

Common Names: White Bryony. (Grieve, p132).

Plant Family: Cucurbitaceae.

Part/s Used: Sliced dried root. (BHMA, p43).

History: In the 14th century it was known as an antidote for leprosy. (Grieve, p132).

Botanical Description: ‘It produces a large, tuberous rootstock, which is continuous with a thick fleshy root which attains an enormous size.’ (Grieve, p132). Plants are dioecious *, perennial, climbing vines. B. dioica has red berries, B. alba, black berries. (BHMA, p43). ‘Leaves 5- lobed; flowers greenish-white, male with five stamens, female with 3 bifid stigmas’. (Keble Martin, p36).

Habitat/Harvesting: Root is collected in summer or autumn. (BHMA, p43). Grows in hedges and woods. Not often found in the north of England. (Grieve, p132).

Range: Indigenous to central and southern Europe. (BHMA, p43).

Constituents: Bryonin (an alkaloid); Bryonol (a crystalline phytosterol glucoside); Cucurbitacins; Fatty acids; Glycosides; Tannin. (BHMA, p43). Brein (glucoside), in Bryonia alba. (Grieve, p131).

Externally: Rubifacient; Vesicatory. (BHMA, p43).

Externally: Myalgia; Pleurodynia. (BHMA, p44). ‘It has been used for cataplasms, and praised as a remedy for sciatica, rheumatism and lumbago’. (Grieve, 133).

Specific aplications: Lumbago – in low dosage; Rheumatic pains. (BHMA, p44).

Toxicology: Poisonous; Schedule III. Contra-indications & Cautions: Large doses may precipitate menstruation or cause haemorrhoidal trouble. (BHMA, p44).

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Avoid during pregnancy. (BHMA, p44).

Comments: ‘In case of poisoning by Bryony, the stomach must be evacuated and demulcent drinks given. The body temperature must be maintained by the use of blankets and hot bottles.’

(Grieve, p133). ‘They are furious martial plants’. (Culpeper, p72).

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CINQUEFOIL. Scientific Name: Potentilla reptans.

Synonym/s: Five Fingers; Five-Finger Blossom; Sunkfield; Synkefoyle. (Grieve).

Common Names: Creeping Cinquefoil.

Plant Family: Rosaceae.

Part/s Used: Herb, Root.

History: According to Dioscorides ‘it was good against malaria, the leaves of four shoots against quartan malaria, of three against the tertian, of one against the quotidian, a piece of medical magic which Gerard denounced as “most vain and foolish”.’ ‘Reginald Scot, in The Discoverie of Witchcraft (1584), scornfully refers to foreign papists who “hang in their entries an herb called Pentaphyllon Cinquefoil”, together with hawthorn gathered on May Day, in order ‘to be delivered from witches’; and Bacon, in his Sylva Sylvarum (1627), refers to the ointment of witches were supposed to employ, reputedly made of “the fat of children digged out of their graves; of the juices of smallage, wolfbane, and cinquefoil, mingled with the meal of fine wheat.”’ (Grigson, p151152). ‘It was one of the ingredients of a special bait for fishing nets, which was held to ensure a heavy catch. This concoction consisted of corn boiled in thyme and marjoram water, mixed with nettles, cinquefoil and the juice of houseleek.’ (Grieve, p316).

Botanical Description: ‘Stem long, creeping, rooting, unbranched; leaf mostly with five parts, with serated edges; petals 5.’ (Keble Martin, p27). ‘The rootstock branches at the top from several crowns, from which arise the long stalked root-leaves and the thread-like, creeping stems, which bear stalked leaves and solitary flowers. These stem-runners root at intervals. Leaves divided into five leaflets, with scattered hairs on the veins and margin, the veins being prominent below.’

(Grieve, p316).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Hedge banks, waste and cultivated land, on basic soil’. (Keble Martin, p27).

‘Robinson’s Herbal directs that the roots are to be dug up in April and the outer bark to be taken off and dried, the rest not being used.’ (Grieve, p317).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Febrifuge; Styptic. (Grieve, p316).

Medical Applications: ‘The decoction is recommended as a remedy for diarrhoea, to stop bleeding of the lungs or bronchial tubes and bleeding of the nose, as a good eyewash, as well as a gargle in relaxed sore throat.’ (Grieve, p317). ‘Sore mouths, ulcers, cancers, fistulas, and other corrupt, foul, or running sores…Boiled in wine, and applied to any joint full of pain, ache, or gout in the hands or feet, or the hip gout, called the sciatica, and the decoction thereof drank the while, doth cure them, and easeth much pain in the bowels… To stay the bleeding of wounds in any part inward or outward.’ (Culpeper, p109).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Fluid Extract, ½ to 2 drachms (Grieve, p317).

Comments: ‘This is an herb of Jupiter…If Jupiter were strong, and the Moon applied to him, and his good aspect at the gathering, I never knew it missed the desired effect.’ (Culpeper, p108-109).

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COMFREY Scientific Name: Symphytum officinale.

Synonym/s: Ass Ear; Boneset; Bruisewort; Consolida; Gum Plant; Knitbone. (Grieve) Hispid: ‘With rough bristly hairs’. (Usher, p54, p107).

Decurrent: ‘Leaf base extending down the stem as two wings.’

Common Names: Comfrey.

Plant Family: Boraginaceae.

Part/s Used: Leaf and Root.

History: ‘It was often used to treat fractures in the Middle-Ages.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p54). The name Comfrey, is a corruption of con firma, in allusion to the uniting of bones it was thought to effect, and the botanical name, Symphytum, is derived from the Greek Symphyo (to unite).

Botanical Description: ‘Perennial; Height, 60 – 100cm; Leaves ovate and hispid; Corollas are bell-shaped, purplish, yellowish-white or pink.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p54).‘Branched rootstock, fibrous and fleshy, smooth, blackish externally, and internally white, fleshy and juicy…The stem is stout, angular and hollow…The stem leaves are decurrent…The flowers being placed on one side of the stem, gradually tapering, are scorpoid in form.’ (Grieve).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Grows in meadows, ditches, on embankments, by the wayside…Likes damp to wet soil, rich in nitrogen…The root is dug up in autumn. The leaf and herbage are picked in the flowering period…Dry the leaf and herbage quickly in thin layers. The root is slow to dry; it is also used fresh. (Kresanek, p182). Propagates easily from rootstock.

Range: ‘Throughout Europe; Northern Asia. (Paris & Schauenberg, p54).

Constituents: Allantoin; Echimidine; Symphytine; Mucilage; Resin (in root). (BHMA, p202-203).

Traces of an Alkaloid (symphyto-cynoglossine); traces of consolidine; choline; tannin. The rhizome is rich in mucilage, starch and sugar, and also contains some asparagine. (Paris & Schauenberg, ).

Pharmacognosy ‘Healing due to effect of allantoin.’ (Mills, p545).

Medical Properties: Emollient; Scar-healing; Sedative. (Paris & Schauenberg, p54).

Leaves: Anti-haemorrhagic; Anti-inflammatory; Anti-rheumatic; Demulcent; Vulnerary.

Root: Anti-haemorrhagic; Astringent; Cell-proliferant; Demulcent; Vulnerary. (BHMA).

Medical Applications: Leaves: Arthritis; Gastric and duodenal ulcer; Rheumatic pain.

Externally: As poultice or fomentation in bruises, sprains, athlete’s foot, crural ulcers and mastitis. Root. Colitis; Gastric and duodenal ulcer; Haematemesis.

Externally: Ulcers; wounds; fractures; herniae by application of fresh root. (BHMA, p202- 3). ‘A decoction of the rhizome is used as a gargle for pharyngitis and tonsillitis. As a douche or enema it is effective in soothing metritis.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p54). Metritis: ‘Inflammation of the uterus.’ (Dorland’s). Diarrhoea; Dysentery; Quinsy; Whooping-cough. (Grieve, p217).

Specific medical uses: Gastric ulcer.

Externally: Varicose ulcer. (BHMA, p202-3) Preparations, : Dosages: (thrice daily) Folia: Dried leaf 2.0 – 8.0g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 8.0ml.

Radix: Dried root and rhizome 2.0 – 4.0g in decoction. Liquid extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. Ointment Symphytum Root 10 – 15% extractive in usual type ointment base. (BHMA,).

Toxicology: ‘The presence of hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids in comfrey (N.B. negligible quantities in the leaf) has provoked concern about the toxicity of the remedy…Much depends on the species of the Comfrey…Therapeutic dosages usually safe.’ (Mills, p545-6).

Comments: ‘The old Edinburgh formula: Fresh Comfrey leaves and fresh plantain leaves, of each lb.ss.; bruise them and well squeeze out the juice; add to the dregs spring water lb.ij.; boil to half, and mix the strained liquor with the expressed juice; add an equal quantity of white sugar and boil to a syrup.’ 15 page 15

COW PARSLEY Scientific Name: Anthriscus sylvestris.

Synonym/s: Wild Chervil. Queen Anne’s Lace Common Names: Cow Parsley.

Botanical Description: 2 to 3 foot tall; hollow stems with white umbel of flowers in May and June.

Range: All over Britain in hedgerows and verges.

Comments: No Medicinal Usage Found.

‘The young plant and flowering tips produce the green or yellow- green dye which was used for dyeing Harris tweed. The dried stalks were used to make weaving bobbins’. (Darwin, p67). 17

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COWSLIP Scientific Name: Primula officinalis.

Synonym/s: Paralysis. (Culpeper, p123). Paigle; Peagle; Cu-Sloppe (Anglo Saxon).(Ody).

Common Names: Cowslip.

Plant Family: Primulaceae.

Part/s Used: Flower; Rhizome.

History: ‘Venus lays claim to this herb as her own, and it is under the sign Aries.’ (Culpeper, p122) ‘Because they strengthen the brain and nerves, and remedy palsies, the Greeks gave them the name ‘Paralysis.’ (Culpeper, p123). Gerard described use for ‘frensies’. (Ody, p87).

Botanical Description: Brown, cylindrical rhizome; basal rosette of elliptical leaves; central scape terminating in a simple unilateral umbel. Flowers in the spring.(Kresanek,) Habitat/Harvesting: Damp places with fertile soil, where it can be grown from seed. Flower is usually collected without the calyx. Collect the rhizome in the autumn. (Kresanek, p152). Dry quickly and carefully; Spread out in layers with good ventilation; Artificial heat up to 35􀀀C. ‘If you let them see the sun once a month, it will do neither the sun nor them harm.’ (Culpeper).

Range: Throughout Europe from foothill to alpine elevations on mountain pastures, in thickets and woodlands. (Kresanek, p152).

Constituents: Saponins; Silica; Phenolic glucosides; Tannins; Sugars; Flavones. (Kresanek, p152).

Quinones; Silicic acid; Volatile oil. (Barnes, Anderson & Phillipson, p162).

Pharmacognosy Flavonoids: anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic. (Barnes).

Medical Properties: Diaphoretic; Digestive stimulant; Diuretic; Expectorant. (Kresanek). ‘An ointment being made with them, taketh away spots and wrinkles of the skin, sun-burnings and freckles, and adds beauty exceedingly.’ (Culpeper, p122). Sedative; Spasmolytic. (Barnes, et al) ‘The roots ease pains in the back and bladder, and open passages of urine.’ (Culpeper, p123).

Medical Applications: Catarrh; Migraine; Mild neurosis; Rheumatism. (Kresanek); ‘Infirmities of the head coming of heat and wind, as vertigo, ephialtes, false apparitions, phrensies, falling sickness, palsies, convulsions, cramps, pains in the nerves…Leaves good in wounds, and the flowers take away trembling’. (Culpeper, p122-3); Insomnia; Hysteria. (Barnes, et al, p162). Feverish colds; Headaches; Nasal congestion. Trigeminal neuralgia, (as compress). (Ody, p87).

Specific medical uses: Anxiety states associated with restlessness and irritability.

Preparations, (thrice daily): Flora: 10 teaspoonfuls per 250ml of water. Rhizome: 3 teaspoonfuls per 250ml of water. (Kresanek, p152). Liquid Extract 1.0 – 2.0 ml, 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol. (Barnes, et al).

For inward diseases: flowers taken with nutmeg. (Culpeper, p123).

Externally: ointment made with hogs grease. (Culpeper, p123); For sunburn and blemishes.

(Ody).

Side-effects: Cowslip may cause allergic reaction in sensitive individuals; Saponins (mainly found in root) may cause gastro-intestinal irritation. (Barnes, Anderson & Phillipson, p162).

Contraindications & Cautions: Excessive dose may interfere with hypo- or hypertensive therapy; Not to be prescribed to patients on Warfarin. (Barnes, et al, p162).

Comments: Collection of the underground parts is forbidden in most European countries. Only cultivated plants are used (Kresanek, p152).

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CUCKOO PINT Scientific Name: Arum maculatum.

Synonym/s: Lords and Ladies; Adder’s Root; Bobbins; Friars Cowl; Kings and Queens, Parson and Clerk; Quaker; Ramp; Starchwort; Wake Robin. (Grieve, p236).

Common Names: Cuckoo Pint.

Plant Family: Araceae.

Part/s Used: ‘ Tuberous rhizome’. (Paris and Schauenberg, p223).

History: ‘When baked the tubers are edible, and from the amount of starch, nutritious; Arum starch was used for stiffening ruffs in Elizabethan times; In France mucilaginous juice of the plant was used as a substitute for soap; This plant, under the name of Chara, the soldiers of Caesar’s army subsisted on when encamped at Dyrrhachium.’ (Grieve, p237). ‘Tragus reporteth that a drachm weight being beaten and taken, is a present and sure remedy for poison and the plague.’

(Culpeper, p130).

Botanical Description: ‘A perennial plant. Leaves large and arrow-shaped, glossy, dark-green, with purple or black blotches; they appear early in spring. The characteristic flower consists of a purple spadix enveloped in a pale green bract, called the spathe, which is closed at the base.

Fruits, reddishorange berries.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p223). Spadix: ‘A spike of flowers with a fleshy axis, enclosed in a spathe.’ (Usher, p349).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘In hedges, open woodlands, ravines and on deep, well-aerated soils.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p223). Collected in spring or the autumn. ‘If laid in sand in a cellar, they can be preserved in sound condition for nearly a year. When not needed in the fresh state, they can be dried slowly in very gentle heat and sliced. The dried slices are reduced to powder and kept in the cool, in stoppered bottles.’ (Grieve, p237).

Range: Throughout Europe.

Constituents: Albumen, Gum, Sugar, Lignin, Saponin. ‘Gives off Prussic acid when injured.’

(Grieve, p237). Aroine (Bitter compound), which is chemically unstable and toxic. (Paris and Schauenberg, p223).

Medical applications: Diuretic, Purgative, Stimulant. (Darwin, p72).

External medical applications: Ringworm. (Darwin, p72).

Toxicology: ‘Aroine can cause blistering of the skin and damages the central nervous system.

Cases of poisoning have been known when children have eaten the red berries.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p223).

Comments: Still used in Homeopathy. (Paris and Schauenberg, p223). 21

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CURLED DOCK Scientific Name: Rumex crispus.

Synonym/s: Yellow Dock.

Common Names: Curled Dock.

Plant Family: Polygonaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried Root.

History: ‘The roots, leaves and seeds have been valued medicinally since the days of the ancient Greeks, who recommended them for cleansing the body of toxins and aiding digestion.’ (McIntyre, p120).

Botanical Description: ‘Large lanceolate leaves with curled margins, bearing a lightly branched spike of small green three sided fruits with red tubercles.’ (BHMA, p183). ‘The roots are externally rusty brown and internally whitish, with fine straight medullary rays and a rather thick bark; It has little or no smell; Taste rather bitter.’ (Grieve, p259).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘The roots should be unearthed in late summer and autumn. Clean well and split lengthways before drying. (Hoffman, p243). ‘It grows freely in our roadsides and ditches.

The roots are collected in March.’ (Grieve, p259).

Range: Native British herb. (BHMA, p183).

Useful constituents: Rumicin. (Grieve, p259). Iron. (McIntyre, p120). Hydroxyanthraquinone glycosides based on emodin and chrysophanol; tannins. (BHMA, p183).

Medical properties: Alterative. (Hoffman, p243). Gentle purgative; Cholagogue. (BHMA, p183).

Astringent; Laxative; Mild Tonic. (Grieve, p259). Medical applications: Chronic skin disease; Obstructive jaundice; Constipation. (BHMA, p183). Bleeding of the lungs; Bilious complaints; Piles; Rheumatism; Scurvy; Scrofula. (Grieve, p259).

Externally: ‘For skin problems, an ointment may be made by boiling the root in vinegar until the fibre is softened and then mixing the pulp with lard.’ (Grieve, p259). ‘The seed doth stay lasks and fluxes of all sorts, the loathing of the stomach through choler, and is helpful for those that spit blood. The roots boiled in vinegar helpeth the itch, scabs, and breaking out of the skin, if it be bathed therewith.’ (Culpeper, pp137-138) Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Root 2.0 – 4.0g or by decoction. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0 ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 1.0 – 2.0ml. (BHMA, p183).

Comments: ‘Women will no put it into a pot because it makes the pottage black; pride and ignorance, a couple of monsters in creation, preferring nicety before health.’ (Culpeper, p138). 23

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DAISY Scientific Name: Bellis perennis.

Synonym/s: Bruisewort; (Scotch) Bairnwort; (Welsh) Llygad y Dydd (Eye of the Day) (Grieve).

Common Names: Daisy.

Plant Family: Compositae.

Part/s Used: Fresh or dried flower heads. (Hoffman, p195).

History ‘Gerard mentions Daisy as an unfailing remedy in “all kinds of paines and aches”, besides curing fevers, inflammation of the liver and “alle the inwarde parts.”…In 1771 Dr. Hill said that an infusion of the leaves was “excellent against Hectic Fevers”’. (Grieve, p247). ‘The herb is under the sign of Cancer, and under the dominion of Venus, and therefore excellent good for wounds in the breast…The juice or distilled water doth much temper the heat of choler, and refresh the liver and the other inward parts. They are also used for ruptures and other inward burnings.’ (Culpeper, p132).

Botanical Description: Short stemmed, well known, well loved flower, with a bright yellow centre surrounded by white, sometimes pink tinged, petals. Small roundish leaves growing close to the ground.

Habitat: Common throughout Britain Useful Constituents: Bitter principle; Essential oil; Flavones; Mucilage; Saponins; Tannin.

(Hoffman, p195).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Expectorant. (Hoffman, p195).

Medical Applications: Arthritis; Catarrh; Coughs; Diarrhoea; Rheumatism; Liver and Kidney conditions. (Hoffman, p195).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Tincture 2.0 – 4.0ml. (Hoffman, p195).

Comments: ‘Once popular superstition that if the roots are boiled in milk and the liquid given to puppies, the animals will grow bigger’. (Grieve p247). 25

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DANDELION Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale.

Synonym/s: Priest’s Crown; Swine’s Snout. (Grieve, p249).

Common Names: Dandelion.

Plant Family: Compositae.

Part/s Used: Leaf and dried root.

History: ‘Valued by the ancients as an antidote to poisons.’ (McIntyre, p123). ‘The first mention of the dandelion as a medicine is in the works of the Arabian physicians of the tenth and eleventh centuries.’ (Grieve, p252). ‘From the Greek taraxos (disorder), and akos (remedy), on account of the curative action of the plant. Or as suggested by The Treasury of Botany: “From the Greek taraxo (“I have excited” or “caused”) and achos (pain), in an allusion to the medicinal effects of the plant.”’ (Grieve, p250).

Botanical Description: ‘Perennial; The leaves deeply dentate or lobed, form a basal rosette from which the flower-stalk rises, crowned by a bright yellow flowerhead. The plant produces a white latex.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p181).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Native to Western Europe where it grows in meadows, fields and fallow land. The leaf is collected during May, the root in the autumn.’ (BHMA, p206-207). ‘The inflorescences are boiled fresh to make syrup…For therapeutic use it must not be cultivated, as this decreases the amount of therapeutically active bitter principles.’

Range: ‘Throughout Europe; Introduced to North America.’ (Kresanek, p186).

Constituents: In leaf: Flavonoids; Vitamin C; Up to 5% potassium.

In root: Bitter (taraxacin); Monohydric alcohols (Taraxasterol, homotaraxasterol); Fatty acids; Inulin; and sugars. (BHMA, p206). Bitter (Lactupicrine). (Paris & Schauenberg, p181). Choline; Glycosides; Triterpenoids. (Hoffman, p196). Asparagin.

Medical Properties: Antirheumatic; Cholagogue; Diuretic; Laxative. (BHMA, p208). Diuretic; Tonic; Slightly Aperient. (Grieve, p254). Stomachic. (Paris & Schauenberg, p181).

Medical Applications: Atonic dyspepsia with constipation; Cholecystitis; Gall stones; Jaundice; Muscular rheumatism; Oliguria. (BHMA, p208). [N.B. Root more potent than leaf.]. Cirrhosis. (Paris & Schauenberg, p182). Dropsy. (Hoffman, p196). Phthisis. (Grieve, p254). ‘Chiefly used in Kidney and Liver disorders…A broth of Dandelion roots, sliced and stewed in boiling water with some leaves of Sorrel and the yolk of an egg, taken daily for some months, has been known to cure seemingly intractable cases of chronic liver congestion…A strong decoction is found serviceable in stone and gravel…Used as a bitter tonic in atonic dyspepsia, and as a mild laxative in habitual constipation.’(Grieve, p254). [Further recipes see Grieve, p254-255.]

Specific medical applications: Cholecystitis and dyspepsia. (BHMA, p208).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Leaf 4.0 – 10.0g or by infusion. Liquid extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 4.0 – 10.0ml. Dried root 2.0 – 8.0g or by infusion or decoction. Liquid Extract (B.P.C. 1949) 1 : 1 in 30% alcohol 2.0 – 8.0ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 5.0 – 10.0ml. Juice of Fresh Root (B.P.C. 1949) 4.0 – 8.0ml. (BHMA, p208). Cautions ; Herb-Drug Interactions: Individuals on Lithium therapy should be cautioned against using herbs with diuretic properties. Individuals using such herbs should be advised of the symptoms of lithium toxicity and should undergo frequent lithium level measurements.’ (Bratman and Harkness, p164).

Comments: ‘In Derbyshire, the juice of the stalk is applied to remove warts’ (Grieve)

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ELDER Scientific Name: Sambucus nigra.

Synonym/s: Black Elder; Bore Tree; Bour Tree; Pipe Tree. (Grieve) Common Names: Common Elder Tree.

Plant Family: Caprifoliaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried Flowers; Fruit. also Leaves and Bark, (see Grieve, p269- 271)}.

History: ‘The berries were eaten in Neolithic times and the therapeutic value of its flowers and fruits was known in Ancient Greece.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p121). ‘The Romans made use of Elderberry juice as a hair-dye.’ (Grieve, p273). ‘Both syrup of Elderberries and the Rob were once official in this country.’ (Grieve).

Botanical Description: ‘A shrub with white pith. Pinnate leaves with an uneven number of leaflets. The fragrant flowers form a wide cyme and ripen into black berries.’(Kresanek) Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Prefers loose, sandy to loam soil, rich in humus and relatively damp.

Warm, sunny, sheltered positions. The flowers are cut off with as short a stalk as possible at the beginning of the flowering period. The fruit is collected when ripe.’ (Kresanek, p174).

Range: Indigenous to Europe, Western Asia and West Africa. (BHMA, p186).

Constituents: Mucilage; Rutin; Tannic acid; Semi-solid yellow volatile oil. (BHMA).

Fruit: Anthocyanide pigments; Carotenoids; Organic acids; Sugars; Silica; Vitamin B and C. Flowers: Amines; Cyanogenic products of sambunigrine glucoside; Flavones; Organic acids; Mineral salts; Phenols; Silica. (Kresanek, p174). Glycosides Quercitrin and Ru tin; Essential oil containing terpenes. (Paris & Schauenberg, p121).

Medical Properties: Anti-rheumatic; Anti-spasmodic. (Paris & Schauenberg, p121).

Flowers: Anti-catarrhal; Diaphoretic. (BHMA, p187). Diuretic. (Kresanek, p174). Fruit: Analgesic; Diaphoretic; Diuretic; Laxative. (Kresanek, p174).

Medical uses: Chronic nasal catarrh with deafness; Influenzal colds; Sinusitis. (BHMA).

Flowers: Fever; Urinary tract inflammation.

Externally: tonsillitis. Fruit: Neuralgia, Migraine, inflammation of the trifid nerve and sciatica. . ‘In the Anatomie of the Elder, it is stated that the berries of the Elder and the Herb Paris are useful in epilepsy.’ (Grieve, p273).

Specific medical uses: Common cold. (BHMA, p187).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Flowers 2.0 – 4.0g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. (BHMA, p187).

Comments: ‘The analgesic effect is mild, but has been reliably proven.’ (Kresanek, p174). ‘The leaves bruised, if worn in the hat or rubbed on the face, prevent flies settling on the person.’ ‘The leaves are said to be valued by the farmer for driving mice away from granaries and moles from their usual haunts.’ ‘On Bertha Night (6th January), the devil goes about with special virulence. As a safeguard, persons are recommended to make a magic circle, in the centre of which they should stand, with Elderberries gathered on St. John’s night. By doing this, the mystic Fern-seed may be obtained, which possesses the strength of thirty or forty men.’ (Grieve,).

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FIGWORT Scientific Name: Scrophularia nodosa.

Synonym/s: Throatwort; Carpenter’s Square; Kernelwort; (Welsh) Deilen Ddu (‘good leaf’). (Grieve, p313).

Common Names: (Knotted) Figwort.

Plant Family: Scrophulariacea.

Part/s Used: Flowering Herb.

History: ‘During the thirteen months’ siege of Rochelle by the army of Richelieu in 1628, the tuberous roots yielded support to the garrison, from which the French still call it Herbe du siege.’

(Grieve, p313).

Botanical Description: Up to 80 cm tall, upright, with well toothed pointed oval leaves with clusters of small globular flowers with reddish brown upper lips. (BHMA, p193).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Groweth frequently in moist and shadowy woods, and in the lower parts of fields and meadows’. (Culpeper, p157). Gathered between June and August. (Hoffman, p200).

Range: Native British Herb.

Constituents: Cardio-active glycosides; Hesperetin; Saponins. (BHMA, p193). Flavanoids; Organic acids; Resin; Sugar. (Hoffman, p200).

Medical Properties: Dermatological agent; Increase myocardial contraction; Mild diuretic.

(BHMA, p193). Alterative; Heart stimulant; Mild purgative. (Hoffman, p200). Anodyne. (Grieve, p313).

Medical Applications: Chronic skin disease. (BHMA, p193). ‘Fomentation for sprains, swellings, inflammations, wounds and diseased parts, especially in scrofulous sores and gangrene.’ (Grieve, p313).

Specific medical uses: Eczema; Psoriasis; Pruritus. (BHMA, p193).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Herb 2.0 – 8.0g by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 8.0ml. Tincture 1 : 10 in 45% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. (BHMA, p193).

Cautions: Avoid in ventricular tachycardia. (BHMA, p193).

Comments: ‘Venus owns the herb, therefore a better remedy cannot be for the king’s evil, because the moon that rules the disease is exalted there. The decoction of the herb taken inwardly, and the bruised herb applied outwardly, dissolveth clotted and congealed blood within the body, coming by any bruise or fall.’ (Culpeper, p158). ‘Gerard tells us: ‘If it be hanged about the necke or else carried about one, it keepeth a man in health’ (Grieve, p313- 314).

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FOXGLOVE Scientific Name: Digitalis purpurea.

Synonym/s: Bloody Fingers; Dead Men’s Bells; Fairy Caps; Fairy’s Glove; Fairy Thimbles; Folk’s Glove; Gloves of Our Lady; Virgin’s Glove; Witches’ Glove. (Grieve).

Common Names: Foxglove.

Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Part/s Used: Foliage.

History: ‘The foxglove is an ancient remedy dating from the 13th century. It was then used externally to treat ulcers. William Withering discovered its cardiotonic properties in 1775.’(Paris & Schauenberg, p189). {Remedy in fact bought from botanist Mrs Hutton. (Darwin, p165)}.

Botanical Description: ‘In the first year a rosette of leaves, but no stem, is sent up. In the second year, one or more flowering stems are thrown up, which are 3 to 4 feet high, bearing long spikes of drooping bell-shaped and tubular flowers. All the leaves are covered with small, simple, unbranched hairs’. (Grieve, p322).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Scattered through thin woods from foothill to mountain elevations. Very sensitive to soil and climate; grows in light soil free of weeds, well supplied with ground-water and nutrients. Likes warm, sunny, sheltered sites; The leaf is collected from cultivated plants in there fifth or sixth months; Dried only by artificial heat, not over 62􀀀C.’ (Kresanek, p80).

Range: ‘Throughout Western Europe.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p188).

Constituents: Digitaloids - cardenolides, purpurea-glycosides; Anthraquinones, Flavones, Mucilages, Steroidal Saponins. (Kresanek, p80).

Digitoxin, an extremely poisonous and cumulative drug, insoluble in water; Digitalin, is crystalline and also insoluble in water; Digitalein, amorphous, but readily soluble in water; Digitonin, which is a cardiac depressant, unlike physiological action of Digitalis.

Pharmacognosy ‘It increases the activity of muscle tissue, especially the heart and arterioles, initiating contraction and a very high rise in blood pressure. The pulse is markedly slowed. An irregular pulse becomes regular. The greater force of cardiac contraction is a permanent tonic contraction, hence the internal cardiac capacity is reduced, which is beneficial in cases of cardiac dilation, and it improves the nutrition of the heart by increasing the amount of blood.’ (Grieve, p326). Digitalis is currently a constituent of modern heart drugs.

Medical Properties: Cardiotonic, Diuretic. (Kresanek, p80).

Medical Applications: Cardiac failure/insufficiency; Dropsy; Internal Haemorrhage; Inflammatory disease; Delirium Tremens; Epilepsy; Acute Mania. (Grieve).

Specific medical use: Cardiac Failure/Insufficiency.

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried leaf infusion (1.25g per 190ml water) one teaspoonful. Tincture (Initially) 40-50 drops, then 5-15 drops. (Kresanek, p80).

Toxicology: Poisonous.

Contra-indications & Cautions: Prescribed only by a qualified Doctor. Long-term treatment should be avoided, due to accumulative effect of Digitoxin.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Avoid.

Comments: ‘In cases of poisoning by Digitalis, marked by a very slow and irregular pulse, the administration of Atropine is generally all that is necessary’. (Grieve).

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FUMITORY Scientific Name: Fumaria officinalis.

Synonym/s: Beggary; Earth Smoke; Fumus Terrae; Kaphnos; Vapor; Wax Dolls. (Grieve, p329).

Common Names: Common Fumitory.

Plant Family: Fumariaceae. (Papaveraceae).

Part/s Used: Herb.

History: ‘According to ancient folk-lore, when fumitory is burned its smoke has the ability to expel evil, and fumitory was included in the medieval St. Gall garden plan for this purpose. (McIntyre,p67 Fumitory was known to Pliny and Dioscorides and also appears in the herbals of the Middle Ages.’

(Paris & Schauenberg, p38).

Botanical Description: ‘Frail herb with hollow, angular, branching stem; Petiolated tripinnate leaves; Small pinkish-purple flowers in loose racemes.’(Kresanek,p90).‘Distinguished by having one of the petals swollen or spurred at the base, and a one-seeded capsule which does not open; Leaves odourless, taste bitter and saline; Self-fertile.’ (Grieve, p329).

Habitat/Harvesting: Collecting season: May – September. (Paris & Schauenberg, p38). ‘Frequent on wasteland and in fields; Garden Weed; Dry in thin layers.’ (Kresanek, p90).

Range: ‘Throughout Europe, from lowland to mountain elevations.’ (Kresanek).

Constituents: Bitter alkaloids. (BHMA, p95). Mineral salts; Tannins. (Kresanek, p90). 7 alkaloids of which fumarine is the most important. (Paris & Schauenberg, p38). ‘Leaves yield an expressed juice, with medicinal properties.’ (Other recipes see Grieve, p329-331).

Pharmacognosy; ‘The Alkaloids act mainly on the smooth muscle of the gall bladder and stimulate the secretion of bile.’(Kresanek, p90).

Medical Properties: Weak diuretic; Laxative. (BHMA, p95). Aperient. (Grieve, p330). Choleretic; Metabolic; Stomachic. (Kresanek, p90).

Medical uses: ‘Considered adjuvant in the dissolution of gall stones.’ (Kresanek, p90). Cutaneous eruptions. (BHMA, 95). Dermatitis; Eczema; Exanthema. (Paris & Schauenberg, p38). ‘It acts as a tonic for the liver, and is used not only for digestive problems, but particularly for skin problems of all kinds, including eczema, psoriasis,cradle cap and acne.’ (McIntyre, p67). ‘Visceral obstructions; Scorbutic affections; Troublesome eruptive diseases.’ (Grieve, p330).

Externally: May be used as an eye lotion in conjunctivitis. (BHMA, 95). Applied to haematomas.

(Kresanek, p90).

Specific medical use: Chronic eczema. (BHMA, 95).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried herb 2.0 – 4.0g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 1.0 – 4.0ml. (BHMA, 95).

Toxicology: Poisonous Plant. ‘Larger doses of the drug impair respiration.’ (Kresanek, p90).

Comments: ‘Popularly used as a skin cleansing agent.’ (Kresanek, p90). ‘The flowers are used to make a yellow dye for wool.’ (Grieve, p329).

page 35

GOOSEGRASS Scientific Name: Galium aparine.

Synonym/s: Barweed; Catchweed; Cleavers; Clivers; Eriffe; Everlasting Friendship; Goosebill; Grip Grass; Hayruff; Hedgeheriff; Loveman; Mutton Chops; Robin-run-in-the-Grass; Scratweed; Sticky Willie. (Grieve, p206).

Common Names: Goosegrass.

Plant Family: Rubiaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried herb and fresh expressed juice. (Hoffman, p191).

History: ‘Traditionally used to soothe wounds and ulcers.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p126). ‘Derived from the Greek aparo (to seize)…Greek shepherds employed the stems to make a rough sieve.’

Thus used still in Sweden to filter milk…‘Was also used as an ointment for scalds and burns in the fourteenth century.’ (Grieve,).

Botanical Description: ‘Four angled, rough stems and whorls of narrowly linear leaves with prickly margins, bearing small heads of whitish flowers, followed by two-lobed bristly fruits.’

(BHMA, p97). ‘The plant is inodorous, but has a bitterish, astringent taste.’ (Grieve, p207).

Habitat/Harvesting: Banks, edges of woods, hedgerows. (Paris and Schauenberg, p126). ‘Gather the whole plant in May and June, when just coming into flower.’ (Grieve, p207).

Range: Throughout Europe.

Constituents: Glycoside asperuloside. (BHMA, p97). Citric acid; Gallotannic acid. (Hoffman, p191).

Coumarin; Saponins; Tannins. (McIntyre, p116). Citric acid,, Galitannic acid and Rubichloric acid.’

(Grieve, p207).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Diuretic. (BHMA, p97). Aperient. (Grieve, p207).Alterative; Antiinflammatory; Anti-neoplastic; Tonic. (Hoffman, p191). ‘Cicatrizing; Vulnerary; Reduces bloodpressure and temperature.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p126).

Cicatrization: ‘The formation of a scar.’ (Dorland’s, p170) Medical Applications: Dysuria; Lymphadenitis; Psoriasis. (BHMA, p97). ‘The best tonic to the lymphatic system available.’ Cystitis; Tonsillitis. (Hoffman, p191). ‘Extolled as a purifier of the blood…Given to advantage in scurvy, scrofula, psoriasis and skin conditions and eruptions generally...It operates with considerable power upon the urinary organs, and acts as a solvent of stone in the bladder…An infusion has a most soothing effect in cases of insomnia, and induces quiet, restful sleep. (Grieve, p207).

Specific medical use: Enlarged lymph nodes. (BHMA, p97).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Herb 2.0 – 4.0 g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0 ml. Expressed Juice 3.0–15.0 ml. (BHMA, p97).

Comments: ‘A cooling drink of cleavers was traditionally taken each spring to ‘clear the blood’ and it has been eaten as a spring vegetable for similar cleansing purposes.’ (McIntyre, p117). ‘Gerard quoting Pliny, says: ‘A pottage made of Cleavers, a little mutton and oatmeal is good to cause lankness and keepe from fatnesse.’ (Grieve, p207).

page 37

GREATER CELANDINE (A SCHEDULE 3 HERB. See glossary) Scientific name: Chelidonium majus. ‘From Greek chelidon (a swallow)’.

Synonym/s: Greater Celandine.

Common Names: Greater Celandine; Garden Celandine. (Grieve, p178).

Plant Family: Papaveraceae Part/s Used: Dried herb; Roots; Juice.

History: ‘Drug plant in the Middle Ages and is mentioned by Pliny…Gerard: “It cleanseth and consumeth away slimie things that cleave about the ball of the eye and hinder the sight”… It is one of the 24 herbs mentioned in Mercer’s Herbal. Old alchemists held it was good for jaundice, because of its yellow colour’. (Grieve, p178).

Botanical Description: ‘Herbaceous perennial; Root thick and fleshy; Stem slender, round and slightly hairy; Flowers have a dense mass of stamens in the centre of its blossoms’. (Grieve, p178).

‘Grows up to 90cm tall, upright, deeply lobed, almost pinnate leaves; Fourpetalled yellow flowers’.

(BHMA, p61). The stem secretes an orange-coloured caustic latex when broken off; (Kresanek, p68).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Found by old walls, on waste ground and in hedges, nearly always in the neighbourhood of human habitation’. (Grieve, p178). ‘Prefers damp soil with sufficient nitrogen; Reproduced by seed or vegetatively; dry quickly at first at 80oC, then not more than 35oC’.

(Kresanek, p68).

Range: Native British herb. ‘ Throughout whole of Europe, and naturalised in Eastern North America’. Kresanek, p68.

Constituents: Alkaloids, (including: Chelidonine, (BHMA, p62); Chelerythrin. (Grieve, p179).

Essential oil. (Hoffman, p205). Amines, (including histamine); Flavones; Saponins. (Kresanek, p68).

Protopine; Sanguinarine; Chelidoxanthin, (a neutral bitter principle). (Grieve, p179).

Pharmacology: It has certain cytostatic (inhibits mitosis) effects. (Kresanek, p68). ‘Chelidonic acid extracted for pharmaceutical preparations’. (Kresanek, p68).

Toxicology: Poisonous plant. (Kresanek, p68). ‘Chelerythrin narcotic and poisonous’. (Grieve, p179).

Side-effects: ‘No harmful effects from therapeutic doses have been established’. (BHMA, p62). ‘At higher doses causes powerful purging of the digestive tract’. (Hoffman, p205).

Cautions: ‘Excessive doses should be avoided’. (BHMA, p62). Over use can cause bile duct obstruction; Cancer of the bile duct/liver/pancreas; Cholangitis; Cirrhosis; Intestinal spasm; Liver disease; Septic gall-bladder inflammation (if risk of peritonitis); Viral/toxic hepatitis. (Brinker, p60).

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MISSING IMAGE

HERB ROBERT Scientific Name: Geranium robertianum.

Synonym/s: Red robin; stinky Bob; Common Names: Herb Robert. Plant Family: Geraniaceae Part/s Used: Leaves. (Ody, p181).

History: Much used in the Middle Ages when it was ascribed to Saint Robert or Pope Robert. It was much associated with magic and goblins in earlier times and its popularity is reflected in the number of popular names throughout Europe. Still used in folk medicine in many countries.

Botanical Description: Flowers in June and July. (Culpeper, p194).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘By way-sides, upon ditches and waste grounds.’ (Culpeper, p194).

Range: Common throughout Europe. Easily self-seeds.

Constituents: Tannins; bitter principle, geraniin; traces of volatile oil; citric acid.

Pharmacognosy: Used as an astringent and wound healer.

Medical Properties: Antilithic; Styptic. (Culpeper, p194). Astringent. (Ody, p181).

Medical Applications: Green wounds; effectual in old ulcers in the privie parts or elsewhere.

(Culpeper, p194). External bleeding. (Ody, p181).

Specific medical applications: Herb Robert is rarely used in contemporary European herbal medicine. Can be used to aid healing of wounds as it is mildly anti-bacterial.

Preparations, (thrice daily): As an infusion.

Dosages: 2 teaspoons dried herb 1 teaspoon dried root Toxicology: Side-effects: Contra-indications & Cautions: Could cause diarrhoea in young children.

Herb-Drug Interactions: None known Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: avoid Comments: ‘Do but consider it is an herb of Venus, for all it hath a man’s name.’ (Culpeper, p194).

Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: None

page 41

GROUND IVY Scientific Name: Glechoma hederacea.

Synonym/s: Nepeta hederacea.

Common Names: Ground Ivy; Athair Lus (gaelic)*; Alehoof; Creeping jenny; Gill-over-the-ground; Hay Maids; Turn Hoof; Cat’s foot. (Grieve, p442).

Plant Family: Labiatae.

Part/s Used: Dried aerial parts.

History: Used in Saxon times for clarifying and flavouring ale. (McIntyre A.). It is a herb of Venus; Hot and Dry; (Culpeper, p24-25).

Botanical Description: Horizontal rooting stems, rising to flowering stems 10-30cm high; leaves ovate-cordate, crenate, and long-stalked; Blue Labiate flowers, 1.5-2.5cm long, arranged in axillary whorls of six; corolla tube twice as long as calyx; Sunlight stains leaves red/purple; taste bitter, aromatic. (Zeylstra, 1997).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘It is commonly found under hedges and on the sides of ditches, under houses, or in shadowed lanes and other waste lands in almost every part of the land.’ (Culpeper, p24-25). Flowering time April-May. (Zeylstra, 1997).

Range: Common in British Isles, (except Scotland), Western Europe, North Asia, and Japan.

Constituents: Bitter glechomine; Tannins; Volatile Oil; Choline. (BHMA, p149). Minerals: Iron, Potassium. (Brinker, p304, 307). Resin; Saponin. (Hoffman, p205).

Medical properties: Mild expectorant; Anticatarrhal; Astringent; Diuretic; Stomachic; Tonic; Vulnerary.

Medical applications: Bronchitis; Chronic respiratory catarrh; Cystisis; Diarrhoea; Gastritis; Haemorrhoids; Tinnitus aurium; Specific medical use: Chronic bronchial catarrh. (BHMA, p150). Earaches, tinnitus, nasal catarrh, sinusitus; As snuff for headaches; Skin ulcers; Gargle for sore throats; As an eyebath; Over secretion of mucus. (Zeylstra, 1997).

Preparations: Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried herb 2.0-4.0 g or by infusion. Liquid extract 1:1 in 25% alcohol 2.0-4.0 ml. ). (BHMA, p150) Toxicology: None known.

Side-effects: None known.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Use with caution in pregnancy, due to effects of volatile oil.

Comments: ‘Helps the yellow jaundice by opening the stoppings of the gall and liver, and melancholy, by opening stoppings of the spleen.’ (Culpeper, p24-25). Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: Picked and eaten fresh when available;

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IVY LEAVED TOADFLAX. Scientific Name: Linaria cymbalaria Synonyms: Cymbalaria muralis Common Names: Ivywort. Aaron’s Beard. Climbing Sailor. Creeping Jenny. Mother of Millions, Mother of Thousands. Thousand Flower. Oxford-weed. Pedlar’s Basket. Pennywort. Rabbits.

Roving Jenny. Wandering Jew. Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Parts used: Leaves.

History: This little trailing plant, was not originally a British plant, but a native of the Mediterranean region. It has become naturalized over almost the whole of Europe, and is now thoroughly at home in England, having first been introduced into the Chelsea Botanic Gardens from Italy.

Botanical Description: The leaves, somewhat succulent and smooth, have five rounded lobes and are on long stalks. The backs of the leaves are of a reddish-purple. The flower-stalks, similar in length to the leaf-stalks, arise singly from the axils of the leaves. The flowers, similar in form to those of the common toadflax, are like a small antirrhinum, pale lilac in colour, yellow inside with each blossom ending in a spur.

Habit/Harvesting: Ivy Leaved toadflax is mostly found near houses, on old garden walls, where it trails from the crevices between the stones where it has rooted. The stems are purple in colour and very long, slender and stringy, rooting at frequent intervals. The leaves are in evidence throughout the year.

Range: All over Britain and Europe, wherever there are creviced walls.

Constituents: Bitter principle; iridoids; vitamin C. Pharmacognosy: Vitamin C is of course, useful in the treatment of those diseases which arise out of a deficiency of that vitamin.

Medical Properties: The Ivy-leaved Toadflax has anti-scorbutic properties, and has traditionally been eaten as a salad in southern Europe. The taste is sour and pungent like Cress. (Grieve) It is reported to have been successfully administered in India for diabetes. (Grieve) Medical Applications: Skin diseases arising from lack of vitamin C. Toxicology: None known.

Side-effects: None known.

Contra-indications and cautions: None known.

Herb/drug interactions: None known Use in Pregnancy and Lactation: Comments: Medicinally, this plant is not very useful, but could be a pleasant, sharp addition to a salad in the same way that cress and rocket are.

Personal Experience with this Herb: None.

page 45

LADIES’ BEDSTRAW Scientific Name: Galium verum.

Synonym/s: Cheese Renning; Maid’s Hair; Petty Mugget; Our Lady’s Bedstraw; Yellow Bedstraw.

(Grieve, p91). Common Names: Ladies Bedstraw.

Plant Family: Rubiaceae.

Part/s Used: Herb.

History: ‘An early version of vegetarian cheese was made using this plant as rennet to curdle milk.

The plant was used to dye wool for the Harris Tweed industry.’ (Darwin, p160-161). ‘On a bedstraw of bracken and Galium verum, according to mediaeval legend of northern Europe, the Virgin lay during the Nativity. Bracken refused to acknowledge the child and lost its flower, Galium verum welcomed the child and, blossoming that moment, found its flowers had changed from white to gold.…Another version says that Galium verum was the only plant in the stable which the donkey did not eat.’ (Grigson, p343).

Botanical Description: ‘stems up to 80 cm, ascending to erect; Leaves many, narrow, singularly veined, downy beneath; Flowers yellow; fruit smooth.’ (Keble Martin, p42). ‘The plant is inodorous, but has an astringent, acidulous and bitter taste.’ (Grieve, p91).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Dry grassy places’. (Keble Martin, p42).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Styptic. (Grigson, p344).

Medical Applications: ‘Lady’s bedstraw was used to treat urinary and kidney problems, epilepsy, hysteria, skin disease and bleeding.’ (Darwin, p160). ‘It is still used to a limited degree as a popular remedy in gravel, stone and urinary diseases. Formerly highly esteemed as a remedy in epilepsy and hysteria.’ (Grieve, p91). ‘The decoction being drank, is good to fret and break the stone, provoke urine, stayeth inward bleeding, and healeth inward wounds. (Culpeper, p52).

Comments: ‘The decoction of the herb and flowers used warm, is excellent good to bathe the surbated Feet of Footmen and Lackies in hot weather.’ (Grigson, p344).

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LESSER CELANDINE Scientific Name: Ranunculus ficaria.

Reniform: Kidney-shaped, either solid or flat. (Usher, p320).

Synonym/s: Ficaria; Figwort; Pilewort; Small Celandine; Smallwort; Celtic: Grian; Latin: ficus (a fig), rana (a frog). (Grieve).

Common Names: Lesser Celandine.

Plant Family: Ranunculaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried Herb. (BHMA, p177); Root. (Hoffman, p223).

History: ‘The virtue of an herb may be known by its signature; for if you dig up the root of it, you shall perceive the perfect image of the disease which they commonly call piles…the decoction of the leaves and roots doth wonderfully help piles and haemorrhoides, also kernels by the ears and throat, called the king’s evil, or any other hard wens or tumours…I cured my own daughter of the king’s evil, without any scar at all in one week’s time.’ (Culpeper, p98-99). ‘Under the name of Erdopfell – appears in an old German Herbal of 1533, Rhodion’s Kreutter-buch, evidence that this plant was well known to the herbalists of the Middle Ages.’ (Grieve, p181).

Botanical Description: ‘Leaves stalked, broadly ovate or reniform. Flowers on long peduncles, three sepals, eight to twelve bright yellow petals each with a nectary at the base; Some roots enlarge to form tubercles which are acrid and bitter; Taste slightly bitter; Odour slight; Spring flowering perennial.’ (BHMA, p177). ‘Fruits are dry and distinct, set together in a globular head, somewhat like a grain of corn and whitish in colour, but comparatively few fertile seeds are produced. The plant has recourse to another means of reproduction. At the point where the upper leaves join the stem little objects grow, about the size of a grain of wheat, these become loose and drop to the ground. Each is capable of producing a new plant.’ (Grieve, p180).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘It groweth for the most part in moist corners of fields and places that are near water-sides, yet will abide in drier ground if it be but a little shady.’ (Culpeper, p98). ‘The root should be unearthed during May and June.’ (Hoffman, p223).

Range: Indigenous to Great Britain. (BHMA, p177). Found throughout Europe, Western Asia and North Africa. (Grieve, p179).

Constituents: Anemonin; Protoanemonin. (BHMA, p177).

Medical properties: Astringent; Locally demulscent. (BHMA, p177).

Medical applications: Haemorrhoids. (BHMA, p177).

Specific applications: ‘Internal or prolapsed piles with or without haemorrhage – by topical application as ointment or suppository. (BHMA, p177).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Plant 2.0 – 5.0g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 5.0ml. Ointment 3% in suitable base. (BHMA, p177).

Contra-indications & Cautions: Not for internal use, due to its acrid irritant properties. (Brinker, p51).

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Caution speculated. (Brinker, p51).

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LIME Scientific Name: Tilia europea; (Tilia cordata and Tilia platyphyllos).

Synonym/s: Common Lime; (Small-leaved Lime and Large-Leaved Lime); Linden Flowers.

Common Names: Lime Tree.

Plant Family: Tiliaceae.

Part/s Used: Flower.

History: Grinley Gibbons did most of his flower and figure carvings for St. Paul’s Cathedral, Windsor Castle and Chatsworth in Lime wood.’ (Grieve, p485).

Botanical Description: ‘Tall, thickly branching tree with large, roundly cordate leaves, light-green with white hairs below, dark green on the upper side; corymbs of 3-9 flowers.’ (Kresanek, p192).

‘Leaves sharply toothed; Yellowish-white flowers have five petals and five sepals.’ (Grieve, p485).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Dry in thin layers as quickly as possible in order to preserve the original colour of the bract.’ (Kresanek, p192). Bast: Phloem. (Usher, p45).

Range: Northern Temperate Zone. (Grieve, p485) Constituents: Hesperidin; Mucilage; Saponins; Sugars; Tannins; Volatile oil. (BHMA, p213).

‘Flavones; Organic acids; Silica containing farnesol; Triterpenes; Vitamins.’ (Kresanek, p192).

‘Flavonic glycosides; Protocatechic tannins; Quercitroside.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p257). ‘The bark produces coumarins and polyphenols.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p257).

Medical properties: Diaphoretic; Diuretic; Mild Astringent; Sedative; Spasmolytic. (BHMA, p214).

Cholagogue; Stomachic. (Kresanek, p192). Bechic. (Paris & Schauenberg, p257).

Medical applications: Arteriosclerotic hypertension; Feverish Colds; Hysteria; Migraine. (BHMA, p214). Chills; Inflammations of upper respiratory passages; Neurosis; Neurasthenia. (Kresanek, p192). ‘Bark is choleretic; the bast, in decoction, good for rheumatism.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p257). ‘Indigestion, nervous vomiting or palpitation.’ (Grieve, p486).

Specific application: Raised arterial pressure associated with arteriosclerosis and nervous tension. (BHMA, p314).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried inflorescence with bract 2.0 – 4.0g by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2.0 – 4.0ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 1.0 – 2.0ml. (BHMA, p214).

Contra-indications & Cautions: ‘If the flowers used for making tisane are too old they may produce symptoms of intoxication.’ (Grieve, p486).

Comments: ‘The honey from the flowers is regarded as the best flavoured and the most valuable in the world.’ (Grieve, p485).

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MALLOW Scientific Name: Malva sylvestris.

Synonym/s: Blue Mallow.

Common Names: Common Mallow.

Plant Family: Malvaceae.

Part/s Used: Leaves and flowers.

History: Mallow ‘has been used medicinally sine 700 B.C.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62). ‘The flowers were used formerly on May Day by country people for strewing before their doors and weaving into garlands.’ (Grieve; 1992) Botanical Description: ‘Perennial with creeping habit; Height, reaching 1 m;; Flowers pinkpurple, 4cm in diameter, with 5 narrow petals. (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62). ‘Herb with an erect, ascending and very hairy stem; The leaves have 5 – 7 lobes and crenate edges; Flowers on peduncles grow in clusters of 2 – 6 in the axils of the upper leaves. (Kresanek; 1982; p124).

Habitat/Harvesting: June – August. (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62). ‘Dry woodland clearings, meadows, pastures, wasteland, from lowland to foothill elevations.’ Dry in shade or by artificial heat up to maximum of 60°C. (Kresanek; 1982;).

Range: Throughout Europe; Western Asia. (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62).

Constituents: Mucilage, (in whole plant); Malvidol (mauve, water-soluble pigment – in flowers); Vitamins A, B¹, B² and C, (in leaves). (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990;). Tannins. (Kresanek, 1982).

Medical Properties: ‘Soothing, pectoral, mildly astringent and an intestinal stimulant. It is a laxative in large quantities.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62) ‘Anti-inflammatory; Emollient; Mucilaginous; Protective.’ (Kresanek; 1982).

Medical applications: Internally: Bronchitis; Gastritis; Laryngitis; Pharyngitis; Stomach ulcers; Upper Respiratory Catarrh. (Hoffman; 1990; p213). ‘Employed as a decoction for injection, which, made strong, cures strangury* and gravel.’ (Grieve; 1992; p509); *(Strangury: ‘Slow and painful discharge of urine.’ (Novak; 1995; p762).) ‘As an infusion for digestive and urinary diseases.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62); Externally: ‘As a decoction, for bathing, and as a gargle, for inflammation of the skin and mucous membranes.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p62); ‘As a compress against abscesses, boils and minor burns.’ (Hoffman; 1990; p213). For cough; Inflammation of the larynx. (Kresanek; 1982; p124).

Preparations: Dosages: ‘An infusion of 10 – 15g of the flower to 500ml of water, ½ glass 2 – 4 times a day; (Children one teaspoonful every three hours). A maceration is made of the leaf: 3 teaspoonfuls to 2 glasses of water; The maceration is also suitable for external use.’ (Kresanek; 1982; p124).

Cautions: May cause diminished absorption of oral medications if taken concurrently.

Comments: ‘Combined mainly with herbal teas known as Species pectorals, e.g. Fennel, Aniseed, Thyme, Chamomile.’ (Kresanek; 1982; p124).

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MULLEIN Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus.

Synonym/s: Aaron’s Rod; Beggar’s Stalk; Blanket Herb; Clot; Cuddy’s Lungs; Duffle; Feltwort; Fluff Weed; Hag’s Taper; Hare’s Beard; Jupiter’s Staff; Our Lady’s Flannel; Rag Paper; Shepherd’s Clubs; Torches; Velvet Dock; Wild Ice Leaf; Woollen. (Grieve).

Common Names: Mullein.

Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried Herb and Flowers.

History: ‘Its soft downy leaves were once used by country folk to line their shoes to keep their feet warm on cold days. The stems were dipped in tallow or suet and made good tapers or candles as far back as Roman days. Ulysses was said to have used mullein to protect himself against the sorcery of Circe. In Elizabethan times the leaves were carried to ward off epileptic attacks. The Native Americans boiled the leaves and applied them to painful joints and to relieve headaches.’

Botanical Description: A woolly biennial plant; Height 70-120cm; Stem erect; Leaves large, lanceolate, covered in yellowish hairs; Flowers yellow, in a dense terminal spike. (Paris & Schauenberg, p211).

Habitat/Harvesting: Common on waste ground, dry grassland. (Paris & Schauenberg, p211).

Flowers should be gathered between July and September during dry weather. The leaves in midsummer before they turn brown. Dried in the shade or with artificial heat not higher than 40°C. (Hoffman, p217).

Range: ‘Found all over Europe, temperate Asia, the Himalayas and North America.

Constituents: Mucilage; Resin; Saponin; Volatile oil. (BHMA, p226). Flavonoids (including hesperidin and verbascoside); Glycosides (including aucubin). (Hoffman, p217).

Medical Properties: Demulcent; Mild Diuretic; Expectorant. (BHMA, p227).

Topically: Emollient; Vulnerary. (BHMA, p227). Astringent; Emollient; Slightly sedative and narcotic. (Grieve, p565).

Medical Applications: Diarrhoea; Piles; Tuberculosis. (Darwin, p169). Bronchitis; Influenzal cold with respiratory catarrh. (BHMA, p227). Phthisis. (Grieve,).

Externally: Preparation in olive oil for inflamed mucosa. (BHMA, p227). ‘The dried leaves made into cigarettes relieve spasmodic coughs and asthma.’ ‘A conserve of the flowers has been employed on the Continent against ringworm, and a distilled water of the flowers was long reputed a cure for burns and erysipelas.’ ‘Mullein oil is recommended for earache and discharge from the ear, and for any eczema of the external ear and its canal.’ (Grieve, p565). ‘The juice of the leaves and flowers being laid upon rough warts doth rasily take them away, but doth do no good to smooth warts…The seed being bruised and boiled in wine, and laid on any member that hath been out of joint, and newly set again, taketh away all swelling and pain thereof…It is under the dominion of Saturn.’ (Culpeper, p252-253).

Specific application: Bronchitis with hard cough and soreness. (BHMA, p227).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Leaves 4.0 – 8.0g or by infusion. Liquid extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 4.0 – 8.0ml. (BHMA, p227). Mullein oil 2 – 3 drops. (Grieve, p565).

Comments: ‘Gerarde tells us that “Figs do not putrifie at all that are wrapped in the leaves of Mullein’. (Grieve, p565).

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PELLITORY-OF-THE-WALL Scientific Name: Parietaria diffusa.

Synonym/s: Lichwort; Parietaria officinalis; Parietaria judaica.

Common Names: Pellitory-of-the-Wall.

Plant Family: Urticaceae.

Part/s Used: Aerial parts.

History: ‘The only representative of its genus in Britain.’ (Grieve; 1992; p624).

Botanical Description: ‘Much-branched, bushy, herbaceous, perennial plant, 1 to 2 feet high, with reddish, brittle stems and narrow, stalked leaves; The stems and veins of the under surface of the leaves are furnished with short, soft hairs, the upper surface of the leaves is nearly smooth with sunken veins; The small green, stalkless flowers grow in clusters in the axils of the leaves and are in bloom all the summer. (Grieve; 1992; p624).

Habitat/Harvesting: Grows in the crevices of walls. Collected between June and September.

(Hoffman; 1990; p221).

Constituents: Bitter principle and Tannins. (BHMA; 1983; p153). Nitre. (Grieve; 1990; p624).

Medical Properties: Demulcent; Diuretic. (BHMA; 1983; p153). Cooling; Diuretic; Laxative.

(Darwin; 1996; p172).

Medical Applications: Dysuria with cystitis; Oedema of renal origin; Oliguria; Pyelitis; Urinary gravel; Vesical calculi. (BHMA; 1983; p153). Bladder infections; Coughs; Dropsy; Gout; Kidney stones and gravel; Piles; Skin complaints; Sore throat; Toothache. (Darwin; 1996; p172). Cystitis; Pyelitis. (Hoffman; 1990; p221).

Specific medical uses: Recurrent cystitis with urinary lithiasis. (BHMA; 1983; p153).

Preparations, ): Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried herb 1.0 – 5.0g. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 1.0 – 5.0ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 2.0 – 10.0ml. (BHMA; 1983; p153).

Comments: ‘Frequently it is combined with Wild Carrot and Parsley Piert.’ (Grieve; 1990; p624).

‘Its action upon the urinary calculus is perhaps more marked than any other simple agent at present employed.’ (Grieve; 1990; p624). ‘Gerard says: “The juice dropped into the ears easeth the noise in them and taketh away the pricking and shooting pains therein.” Ben Jonson says: “A good old woman…did cure me with sodden ale and pellitorie o’ the wall.”’ (Grieve; 1992; p624).

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PLANTAIN Scientific Name: Plantago lanceolata.

Synonym/s: Black Jack; Cocks; Costa Canina; Hen Plant; Kemps; Jackstraw; Lamb’s Tongue; Quinquenervia; Ribble Grass; Snake Plantain; Wendles. (Grieve).

Common Names: Plantain; Ribwort; Ribgrass.

Plant Family: Plantaganaceae.

Part/s Used: Leaf, seeds.

History: ‘’The stalks of this plant are particularly tough and wiry, and it is an old game with country children to strike the heads against the other until the stalk breaks.’ (Grieve, p644). ‘This plant’s beneficial properties were known in Ancient Greece.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p272). Shakespeare referred to Plantain as a wound herb in Romeo and Juliet. (Zeylstra, p37).

Botanical Description: Basal rosette of slender lanceolate leaves, with parallel veins, up to 12” long; The flower is at the end of a tough stalk. It looks like an oval knob from which the stamens protrude.

Habitat/Harvesting: Quickly dried at 40-50 °C. (Kresanek, p146). ‘Very common on dry soils, embankments, roadside verges.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p272).

Range: Throughout Britain, Europe, and temperate zones in Asia. (Zeylstra).

Constituents: Glycosides, including aucubin; mucilage; ascorbic and protocatechuic acids.

(BHMA, p164). Tannins; Silicates; Flavones; Pectin. (Kresanek, p146). Minerals such as silica, zinc and high levels of potassium. (Zeylstra, p36).

Pharmacognosy: Aucubin is anti-catarrhal and anti-biotic. (Zeylstra, p36).

Medical properties: Anti-haemorrhagic; Anti-inflammatory; Digestive stimulant; Expectorant; Mucilaginous. (Kresanek, p146). Anti-septic; Refrigerant; Anti-catarrhal; (Zeylstra, p37). Antidiarrhoeic; Emollient; Vulnerary. (Paris & Schauenberg, p272).

Medical applications: Haemorrhoids with bleeding and irritation. (BHMA, p164). ‘Relieving irritated and inflamed conditions such as colitis, gastritis, bronchitis, harsh coughs and cystitis.

Can be taken for colds, sinus congestion and allergic conditions such as hay-fever and asthma.’

(McIntyre, p118). ‘A decoction, a syrup and an aqueous extract are made from the whole plant to treat asthma bronchial catarrh, bronchitis and pulmonary tuberculosis.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p272).

External applications: Wounds; Varicose ulcers. As an eye-wash for conjunctivitis and inflammation of the eye-lids. As a gargle, it soothes sore throats. (Paris & Schauenberg, p272).

Preparations: Dosages: (thrice daily). Dried leaves 2 - 4 g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 2 - 4 ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 2 - 4 ml. (BHMA, p164).

Comments: Organic zinc closely associated with prostatic function and secretions. (Zeylstra, p37).

Herb of Venus. (Culpeper, p285).

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PRIMROSE Scientific Name: Primula vulgaris.

Common Names: Primrose.

Plant Family: Primulaceae.

Part/s Used: Fresh whole herb/Dried Root. (Grieve, p657).

History: In the early days of medicine used for: gout; muscular rheumatism and paralysis. In America a tincture of the fresh plant in bloom was made for extreme sensitiveness, insomnia and restlessness. Gerarde considered it excellent against nervous hysterical disorders: ‘for curing the phrensie’. (Grieve, p657).

Botanical Description: ‘It has a rootstock knotty with the successive bases of fallen leaves and bearing cylindrical branched rootlets on all sides. The leaves are egg-shapes and oblong. The veins and veinlets are prominent beneath and hairy, the margins irregularly toothed; The flowers are each on separate stalks; There are of two types of flowers, externally apparently identical, but inwardly different in construction: ‘pin-eyed’ and ‘thrum-eyed’, only one kind being found on each plant. In both the greentubed calyx and the pale yellow corolla of five petals, joined into a tube below and spreading into a disk above are identical, but in the centre of the ‘pin-eyed’ flowers there is only the green knob of the stigma, whereas in the centre of the ‘thrum-eyed’ flowers there are five anthers, in ring around the tube. This diversity of structure ensures cross-fertilisation.’

(Grieve, p656-657).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘The plant is abundant in woods, hedgerows, pastures and on railway embankments throughout Great Britain, and is in full flower during April and May. In sheltered spots in mild winters it is often found in blossom during the opening days of the year’. (Grieve, p656). ‘The roots of two-three year-old plants are used, dug in autumn. The roots must be thoroughly cleansed in cold water, with a brush, allowing them to remain in water as short time as possible. All small fibres are trimmed off.’ (Grieve, p657).

Constituents: Fragrant oil; Primulin; Saponin (acrid active principle). (Grieve, p657).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Emetic; Spasmolytic; Vermifuge. (Grieve, p657). Medical Applications: ‘An infusion of the root is a good remedy against nervous headaches. The powdered dried root serves as an emetic.’ (Grieve, p657).

Preparations,: Dosages: (thrice daily): Fresh flowering herb Tincture (10oz to 1 pint) 1 to 10 drops. Infusion, 5 – 10 parts petals to 100 of water. Dried root Tablespoonful. Powdered root Teaspoonful.

Comments: ‘In ancient cookery the flowers were the chief ingredient in a pottage called ‘Primrose Pottage’. (Grieve, p657). ‘Of the leaves of primroses is made as fine a salve to heal wounds as any I know’. (Culpeper, p295-296).

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RAGWORT Scientific Name: Senecio jacobaea.

Synonym/s: St.James Wort; Stagger Wort; Stammer Wort; Segrum. (Culpeper, p301). Cankerwort; Ragweed; Dog Standard; Stinking Nanny. (Grieve, p668).

Common Name: Ragwort.

Plant Family: Compositae.

Part/s Used: Herb.

History: ‘Stammerwort’ indicates that ‘remedy used for impediment of speech.’ (Grieve,).

Botanical Description: ‘Perennial; 2 – 3 feet high; Much branched, furrowed stem; deep glossy green leaves, irregularly divided and toothed; Root leaves are broader and jagged at the base; flowers arranged in rather large, flat-topped bunches (corymbs), bright yellow, up to 1 inch across; narrow rays, toothed at the outer edge;’ Flowers in June and July. (Grieve, p668).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Dry roadsides, waste-grounds and pastures.’ (Grieve, p669). ‘Collect in early summer and autumn, when in flower.’ (Hoffman, p143). Range: Europe; Siberia; North-West India.

(Grieve, p668-70).

Constituents: Alkaloid; Essential oil; Rutin; Mucilage. (Hoffman, p143).

Medical Properties ‘Cleanseth, digesteth and discusseth.’ (Culpeper,) ‘Rubifacient’. (Hoffman, p143).

Medical Applications: ‘Catarrh; Mouth ulcers and sores; Quinsy; King’s Evil. Ulcers in the privities; Internal ulcers; Stayeth the malignity of running cancers, and hollow fistulas; Pains in the nerves and sinews; Sciatica; Pain of the hips or huckle-bone.’ (Culpeper, p301). As a liniment Ragwort provides a stimulating and warming preparation.

Used externally as a poultice on rheumatic muscles.’ (Hoffman, p143). Gout. (Grieve, p669); Juice: cooling and astringent, used as a wash for burns and inflammations of the eye; Root decoction for inward bruises and wounds. (Grieve, p669). Leaves used as emollient poultice.

Preparations, (thrice daily): Fluid Extract: 0.5 – 1.0 drachm. (Grieve, p669).

Toxicology: Potentially poisonous to the liver, so not to be taken internally. (Hoffman, p143).

Poisonous to cattle and horses, but not to sheep. (Grieve, p668-9).

Contra-indications & Cautions: May cause an allergic reaction in people with an allergy to ragwort, asters and chrysanthemums.

Herb-Drug Interactions: None known.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Do not use during pregnancy or lactation.

Comments: Under command of Dame Venus. (Culpeper, p301). Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: None.

page 63

RED CLOVER Scientific Name: Trifolium pratense.

Synonym/s: Trefoil; Purple Clover. (Grieve, p207).

Common Names: Red Clover.

Plant Family: Papilionaceae, (Leguminoseae).

Part/s Used: Dried flower-heads.

Botanical Description: ‘Several stems 1 to 2 feet high, arising from the one root, slightly hairy; leaves ternate, leaflets ovate, entire, nearly smooth, ending in long point; flowers red to purple, fragrant, in dense terminal ovoid or globular heads.’ (Grieve, p207).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘A perennial, generally abundant on meadowland of a light sandy nature, where it produces abundant blossom.’ (Grieve, p207).

Range: ‘Abundant in Britain, throughout Europe, Central and Northern Asia from the Mediterranean to the Arctic Circle and high up into the mountains.’ (Grieve, P207).

Constituents: Flavonoids; Phenolic Glycosides (including trifoliin). (BHMA, p215). Coumarins; Cyanogenic glycosides. (Hoffman, p227).

Medical properties: Dermatological agent; Mildly antispasmodic; Expectorant. (BHMA, p216).

Alterative. (Hoffman, p227).

Medical Applications: Chronic skin disease; Whooping cough. (BHMA, p216). Specific applications: Eczema; Psoriasis. (BHMA, p216).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried inflorescence 4.0 g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 1.5 – 3.0 ml. Tincture 1 : 10 in 45% alcohol 1.0 – 2.0 ml. (BHMA, p216).

Cautions: Herb-Drug Interactions: Herbs with high levels of phytocoumarins, e.g. Red Clover, may activate the anticoagulant potential of Warfarin and other similar drugs, e.g. Dicumarol and Anisindione. (Bratman & Harkness, p315-316).

page 65

RED DEAD NETTLE Scientific Name: Lamium purpureum.

Synonym/s: Purple Archangel.

Common Names: RedDead-Nettle.

Plant Famil: Labiateae.

Part/s Used: Dried herb.

Botanical Description: ‘Heart- or kidney-shaped leaves, blunt with a purple tinge; crowded upper leaves and small, reddish flowers; It flowers all the summer; It is an annual, propagated by seeds alone’. (Grieve, p580).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Common weed in cultivated ground and by waysides’. (Grieve, p580).

Medical Properties: Diaphoretic; Styptic; Vulnerary.

Medical Applications: Decoction of the herb used for ‘checking any kind of haemorrhage’; ‘Leaves are used to staunch wounds, when bruised and outwardly applied’; ‘The dried herb, made into a tea and sweetened with honey, promotes perspiration and acts on the kidneys, being useful in cases of chill’. (Grieve, p581); ‘Used externally to treat bleeding and wounds; also made into a tea for fever, chills and kidney problems’. (Darwin, p125); ‘Various uses in medicine, especially against the King’s Evil’. (Grigson, p327).

Comments: (See Lamium album). Culpeper makes little distinction between the properties of the various Archangel species. Bruised herb, ‘with some salt and vinegar and hog’s grease’, outwardly applied … ‘give ease to the gout, sciatica, and other pains of the joints and sinews’. (Culpeper, p36).

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SELF HEAL Scientific Name: Prunella vulgaris.

Synonym/s: All-Heal; Blue Curls; Brunella; Heart of the Earth; Hook- Heal. (Grieve, p731).

Common Names: Self Heal.

Subentire: ‘Said of a margin which is very slightly indented.’ (Usher, p363).

Plant Family: Labiateae.

Part/s Used: Young shoots and leaves.

History: William Cole, an exponent of the Doctrine of Signatures, in Adam in Eden (1657) states:“…the very signature of the Throat which the form of the Floures so represent signifying as much”, (its use in inflammations of throat and mouth). (Grieve, p732).

Botanical Description: ‘Leaves ovate, subentire, rounded below; upper teeth of calyx united; Flowers blue-violet, rarely pink.’ (Keble Martin, p69). ‘Distinguished from other members of the Labiate order because on the top of its flowering stalks, the flowers – to quote Culpeper – are ‘thicke set together like an eare or spiky knap’. (Grieve, p731). ‘A hairy perennial with a creeping rootstock’. (Paris & Schauenberg, p158).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Abundant in pastures and on waste ground. In open and exposed situations, the plant is diminutive, while in more sheltered spots it is larger in all its parts.’ (Grieve, p732). Collected in June before flowering. (Hoffman, p231).

Range: Throughout Europe, Asia and North America. (Paris and Schauenberg, p158).

Constituents: Bitter principle; Resins; Tannin; Volatile oil. (Hoffman, p231).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Tonic; Vulnerary. (Hoffman, p231).

Medical Applications: Diarrhoea; Haemorrhages; Haemorrhoids. ‘May be used as a spring tonic, or as a general tonic in convalescence.’ (Hoffman, p231). ‘Used to remove obstructions of the liver, spleen and kidneys.’ (Darwin, p126). ‘Decoction used in gargles for treating soreness in the mouth and pharyngitis.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p159).

External applications: Cuts; Piles; Wounds. (Hoffman, p231).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Infusion of dried herb 1 – 2 teaspoonfuls per cup of water Tincture 1.0 – 2.0ml. (Hoffman, p231).

Comments: ‘The Self-Heal holds equal place with Bugle (Ajuga reptans) in the esteem of Herbalists.’ (Grieve, p731). ‘Another herb of Venus, it is an especial herb for inward and outward wounds…an especial remedy for all green wounds, to solder the lips of them…the proverb of the Germans, French and others, is verified in this, that he needeth neither physician nor surgeon that hath self-heal and sanicle to help himself.’ (Culpeper, p341- 342).

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SNOWDROP Scientific Name: Galanthus nivalis.

Synonym/s: Fair Maid of February; Bulbous Violet. (Grieve, p747).

Common Names: Snowdrop.

Plant Family: Amaryllidaceae.

Part/s Used: History: ‘Gerard says “nothing is set down hereof by the ancient nor anything observed by the moderne.”’ (Grieve, p747).

Botanical Description: ‘Usually spoken of as the first flower of our year… The bulbs grow in compact masses. Each sends up a one-flowered stem. The points of the leaves protecting the flower-head are thickened and toughened at the tips, enabling them to push through the soil.

This simple device shows on the mature leaf like a delicate nail on a green finger. The flowers remain open a long time; the bud is erect, but the open flowers pendulous and adapted to bees.

The perianth is in two whorls, on the inner surface of the inner perianth leaves are green grooves secreting honey – the stamens dehisce, or open, by apical slots and lie close against the style, forming a cone. The stigma projects beyond the anther cone and is first touched by an insect, which in probing for nectar, shakes the stamens and receives a shower of pollen.’ (Grieve, p747).

Pendulous: Hanging down. Usher, p270) Perianth: The floral envelope, it includes the calyx and corolla, or any one of them. (Usher, p272).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Generally growing in shady pastures, woods and orchards.’ (Grieve, p747).

Range: ‘It is a native of Switzerland, Austria and of Southern Europe generally.’ (Grieve, p747).

Comments: ‘Gerard appears to be wrong in saying that the plant has no medicinal use. An old glossary of 1465, referring to it as Leucis i viola alba, classes it as an emmenagogue, and elsewhere, placed under the narcissi, its healing properties are stated to be “digestive, resolutive and consolidante.”’ (Grieve, p747).

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SPEEDWELL Scientific Name: Veronica officinalis.

Synonym/s: Angel’s eye; cat’s eye; bird’s eye.

Common Names: Common Speedwell.

Plant Family: Scrophulariaceae.

Part/s Used: Herb.

History: From the Middle Ages this plant has had a reputation for healing.

Botanical Description: ‘Creeping, decumbent stems; opposite, ovate, hairy leaves with fine, dentate edges. Flowers on short pedicels forming terminal spikes. (Kresanek, p206).

Habitat/Harvesting: Heaths, meadows, in deciduous, coniferous and mixed forests. Likes both sandy and loamy soils, shallow, easily drying and acid on the surface. Dislikes limestone.

(Kresanek, p206).

Range: Throughout Europe, form lowland to sub alpine elevations. (Kresanek, p206).

Constituents: Bitter substances, Iridoid Aucubin; Silica; Saponin; Organic acids; Mineral salts; Tannins. (Kresanek, p206).

Pharmacognosy: Helps excretion of harmful substances produced by the metabolic process.

Antibacterial effect on the mucous membrane of the epidermis. (Kresanek).

Medical Properties: Antipyretic; Antiseptic; Depurative; Diaphoretic; Expectorant; Digestive Tonic. (Kresanek, p206).

Medical Applications: Externally: ‘Use as a gargle, for compresses or rinses.’ (Kresanek, p206).

Specific medical applications: Blood purification. Nerve health maintenance.

Preparations, (thrice daily): Dosages: ‘One teaspoonful per glass of water, before meals.’

(Kresanek, p206).

Combinations: ‘Usually combined with Horse-tail, Common Knotgrass, and Centaury as a depurative and tonic; With Cowslip and Garden Thyme as an expectorant.’

Comments: Efficacy overestimated by popular medicine. (Kresanek, p206). Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: None

page 73

SORREL Scientific Name: Rumex acetosa. Synonym/s: Green Sauce; Green Sorrel; Sallet; Sorrow; Sour Sodge. (Grigson, p235).

Common Names: Common Sorrel.

Plant Family: Polygonaceae.

Part/s Used: Fresh leaves and stems. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Botanical Description: ‘A perennial plant. Height, 15 – 70 cm; Leaves alternate, pointed, with longstalks; Flowers small, reddish, grouped in a long, dense spike. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Very common in meadows.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Range: Throughout Europe. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Constituents: Anthracene derivatives; 1.3% of potassium oxalate and oxalic acid; Vitamin C. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Medical applications: Anti-scorbutic; Depurative; Diuretic; Emmemagogue; Laxative; Purgative.

(Paris & Schauenberg, p143). ‘A cooling, acid plant…“It cooleth an hot stomacke: mooveth appetite to meate; tempereth the heate of the liver, and openeth the stoppings thereof.” (Gerard).’

(Grigson, p235).

External applications: Skin infections. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

Toxicology: CAUTION Potassium oxalate and oxalic acid are harmful to the kidneys. (Paris & Schauenberg, p143).

page 75

STINGING NETTLE Scientific Name: Urtica dioica.

Dioecious: ‘Having male and female sex organs on separate individuals. (Usher, p117).

Synonym/s: Common Nettle Common Names: Stinging Nettle.

Plant Family: Urticaceae.

Part/s Used: Dried herb, root.

History: ‘Stinging the skin (with nettles) to stimulate the circulation was recommended by Galen in the 2nd century AD as an aphrodisiac…In the First World War the Germans used nettles to make sail cloths, sacking and army uniforms.’ (McIntyre, p124). ‘“Urtication”, or flogging with Nettles, was an old remedy for chronic rheumatism and loss of muscular power…A quaint old superstition existed that a fever could be dispelled by plucking a Nettle up by the roots, reciting thereby the names of the sick man and also the names of his parents.’ (Grieve).

Botanical Description: ‘A coarse plant covered with stinging hairs. Usually dioecious *; square erect stem; leaves roughly dentate. Thin catkins of tiny green flowers growing from leaf axils.’

(Kresanek, p196).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Hedgebanks, woods, etc.’ (Keble Martin, p76). ‘The aerial parts are collected before flowering- only the young leafy tops of the plant; The root is dug up in spring or autumn…

The leaf dries quickly. The root must be dried in a well-ventilated place.’ (Kresanek, p196).

Range: ‘Throughout the temperate regions of Europe and Asia; Japan, South Africa, Australia and the Andes.’ (Grieve, p574).

Constituents: ‘Indolic compounds including histamine and 5-hydroxytryptamine, and various acids including ascorbic acid.’ (BHMA, p224). Ammonia; Carbonic Acid; Mucilage. (Grieve, p578).

Formic acid; Glucoquinines; Silicon; Potassium; Tannin; Traces of Vitamin A and C. (Paris & Schauenberg, p282). Carotenoids; Flavones; Mineral Salts; Vitamins. (Kresanek, p196).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Tonic. (Hoffman, p218). Nutritive. Anti-Haemorrhagic. Reported to have hypoglycaemic properties. (BHMA, p225). Antidiarrhoeic; Antiseptic; Diuretic; Metabolic; Rubifacient; Styptic. (Kresanek, p196). Antianaemic; Antidiabetic; Depurative; Galactogenic; Haemostatic. (Paris & Schauenberg,).

Medical Applications: ‘Anti-asthmatic: the juice of the root or leaves, mixed with honey or sugar, will relieve bronchial and asthmatic troubles and the dried leaves burnt and inhaled, will have the same effect.’ The seeds and flowers used as a remedy for ague. The seeds have been used for consumption, goitre and for reducing corpulency. (Grieve, p578). ‘Cutaneous eruptions; Epistaxis; Uterine Haemorrhage; Infantile and psychogenic eczema; Melaena.’ (BHMA, p225). ‘It is used in lotions to make hair grow.’ (Paris & Schauenberg, ).

Specific application: Nervous eczema. (BHMA, p225).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried Herb 2.0 – 4.0 g or by infusion. Liquid Extract 1 : 1 in 25% alcohol 3.0 – 4.0 ml. Tincture 1 : 5 in 45% alcohol 2.0 – 6.0 ml. (BHMA, p225). Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: ‘Stimulates milk production in nursing mothers.’

Comments: ‘The Royal Horticultural Society, in their Diary for 1926, informed their members that if Nettles are cut down three times in three consecutive years, they will disappear.’ (Grieve, p579).

page 77

STINKING IRIS Scientific Name: Iris foetidissima.

Synonym/s: Stinking Gladwyn; Spurge Plant; Roast-beef plant. (Grieve,).

Common Name: Stinking Iris.

Plant Family: Iridaceae.

Part/s Used: Root.

History: ‘Well known to the ancients; Referred to by Theophrastus in the 4th Century B.C. (Grieve). ‘It is used by many country-people to purge corrupt phlegm and coler, by drinking a concoction of the roots.’ (Culpeper p 164).

Botanical Description: ‘Creeping rhizomes are thick, tufted and fibrous; Leaves are firm, deep green, sword-shaped, ever-green in winter; When bruised or crushed they emit a strong odour, which at a distance is not unlike that of roast beef. Closer, the scent becomes disagreeable; Flowers between June and August; Corolla is dull, livid purple; Triangular seed vessels ripen to disclose beautiful orange-red coloured seeds.’ (Grieve, p435). ‘the root is reddish on the outside and whitish within, very sharp and hot to the taste, …of evil scent’. Culpeper. P164.

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Woods, shady places, hedge-banks and sloping grounds.’ (Grieve, p435).

‘Propagate from seed, or division of rhizomes.’ (Grieve, p435). The root should be dried carefully and finely ground.

Range: ‘Locally in England; common in Southwest counties.’ (Grieve, p435).

Constituents: Acrid resin. Unknown substances. (Grieve) Medical Properties: Anodyne; Anti-spasmodic; Cathartic; Emmenagogue. (Grieve, p435).

‘Decoction of root acts as a strong purge.’ (Grieve, p435). It has also been used as an emmenagogue and for cleansing eruptions. The dried root, in powder or as an infusion, is good in hysterical disorders, fainting, nervous complaints and to relieve pains and cramps. (Grieve) ‘The sliced roots and leaves in ale serve well for weak stomachs. The juice of the root snuffed up the nose causes sneezing and draws corruption from the head. The powder (roots) drank in wine helps those troubled with cramps and convulsions, or with gout and sciatica; ………’ (Culpeper. P 164) Medical applications: ‘For cleansing eruptions; Dried root in powder, or as an infusion, is good in hysterical disorders, fainting, nervous complaints and to relieve pain and cramps.’ (Grieve, p435). ‘Taken inwardly and applied outwardly to affected part, it is an excellent remedy for scrofula.’ (Grieve) Preparations, Infusion of the powdered root.

Toxicology: Not known.

Side-effects: Not known.

Contra-indications & Cautions: Not known.

Herb-Drug Interactions: N/A. This herb is no longer used medicinally.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Not to be used in pregnancy.

Comments: Properties similar to ‘Yellow Flag’. (Grieve, p435). Under the dominion of Saturn.

(Culpepper. P164) Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: None

page 79

SWEET VIOLET Scientific Name: Viola odorata.

Synonym/s: Sweet violet.

Plant Family: Violaceae.

Part/s Used: Leaves, Flowers and Rootstock.

History: ‘Homer reported that Athenians used Violets to ‘moderate anger’; Pliny describes garlands being used to prevent headaches and dizziness; In 1930’s used as treatment for breast and lung cancer, and to prevent secondary tumours.’ (Ody,p114).

Botanical Description: Plant with stolons. Leaves are cordate and enlarge after flowering.

‘Flowers until end of July, but are best in Spring’ (Culpeper, p377).

Habitat/Harvesting: Gather flowers in full bloom, leaves anytime, and rootstock in fall. Dry the root for later use. Dry with care. (Hoffman, p162).

Range: Throughout Great Britain and Europe, preferring damp, shady conditions.

Constituents: Alkaloids; Essential oil; Flavonoids; Saponins; Methyl salicylate. (Hoffman, p162).

New research has detected the presence of a glycoside of salicylic acid (natural aspirin) which substantiates its use for centuries as a medicinal remedy for headache, body pains and as a sedative. The plants constituents are being studied and show these uses to be valid. Eugenol, Ferulic-acid, Kaempferol, Quercetin, Scopoletin, also show promise in the treatment of many kinds of cancer, arthritis, AIDS, gum disease and more. Pharmacognosy Leaves and flowers used in the treatment of respiratory disorders and headaches.

Medical Properties: ‘Cold and moist.’ (Culpeper, p377). Alterative; Anti-inflammatory; Antineoplastic; Diuretic; Expectorant. (Hoffman, p162).

Medical Applications: ‘Inflammations in the eyes; imposthumes; pains in the head caused by want of sleep; choleric humours; (powdered purple petals) quinsy and falling sickness in children; pleurisy; pains of the back, or reins and bladder; jaundice; inflammations and swellings (as poultice); for piles also (fried with egg yolks and applied thereto.).’ (Culpeper, p377-8). Bronchitis; Upper respiratory catarrh; Eczema; Rheumatism; Urinary infections. (Hoffman, p162).

Specific medical applications: Used in cough mixtures and once employed in the treatment of rheumatism.

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried herb: One teaspoonful in boiling water t.i.d. Tincture: 1.0 – 2.0 ml t.i.d. (Hoffman, p162).

Toxicology: none known Side-effects: none known Contra-indications & Cautions: In large doses the root is emetic and purgative.

Herb-Drug Interactions: none known Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: avoid Comments: Medicine is described as ‘moist, pungent and slightly bitter’. (Ody, p114). Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: none

page 81

WHITE CLOVER Scientific Name: Trifolium repens.

Synonym/s: Dutch clover Common Names: White Clover.

Plant Family: Leguminoseae Part/s Used: Leaves and flowers.

History: White clover has been known as a useful fodder plant for grazing animals and a good honey-bearing plantfor bees.

Botanical Description: The plant is creeping and frequently rooting. The trefoil leaves and the flowers have long stalks. The petals are white with a hint of pink and droop down over the seeds.

Habitat/Harvesting: Grows well in natural meadow land. The young leaves and flowers can be used in salads and the seeds added to flour.

Range: Throughout Europe. Constituents: Cyanogenetic glycosides. (Barnes J., Anderson L. A. & Phillipson J. D.; p399). Tannic acid: genistein; mucilage.

Pharmacognosy Medical Properties: White clover is antirheumatic, antiscrophulatic, depurative, detergent and tonic. An infusion has been used in the treatment of coughs, colds, fevers and leucorrhoea. A tincture of the leaves is applied as an ointment to gout. An infusion of the flowers has been used as an eyewash. (Grieg) Medical Applications: Specific medical applications: Toxicology: This plant is known to absorb toxic chemicals from the soil so avoid harvesting where there is pollution.

Side-effects: None known.

Contra-indications & Cautions: None known.

Herb-Drug Interactions: None known.

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation: Do not use during pregnancy or lactation.

Comments: This plant seems to be more useful as a food product for animals and bees than it is as a medicinal herb. The seeds can be ground down and used as a flavouring addition to flour, but harvesting would be absurdly time consuming. The young leaves and flowers can be used in salads and the older leaves used like spinach.

Personal Clinical experience with this Herb: none.

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WHITE DEAD NETTLE Scientific Name: Lamium album.

Synonym/s: Bee Nettle; Blind Nettle; Deaf Nettle; Dumb Nettle. (Grieve,P579).

Common Names: White Archangel; White Dead-Nettle.

Plant Family: Labiateae.

Part/s Used: Flower.

Botanical Description: ‘Squarel stem with few branches; opposite leaves, oval and pointed; 3-5 flowers clustered in whorls in axils of upper leaves.’ (Kresanek, p114).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Nitrogen loving weed, found along fences, walls, in forest clearings… Likes shady positions…Collect only the corollas without the calyx…Dry as rapidly as possible to prevent colour change; Can be dried in the sun or in an oven.’ (Kresanek, p114).

Range: ‘Abundant throughout Europe’. (Kresanek, p114).

Constituents: Stachydrine (an alkaloid); Biogenic amines; Choline; Flavones; Mucous; Silica; Tannins.’ (Kresanek, p114).

Medical Properties: Astringent; Demulcent; Depurative; Expectorant; Sedative; Styptic; Vulnerary. (Kresanek, p114).

Medical Applications: Dysmenorrhoea; Haemorrhage; Menometrorrhagia. Eczema; Diarrhoea; Oral Inflammations (as gargle); Spots. As Decoction: Minor burns; Swellings; Varicose veins.

(Kresanek, p114).

Specific medical applications: Dysmenorrhoea; Haemorrhage; Menometrorrhagia. (Kresanek, p114).

Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Infusion 20-40g per litre ½ - 2/3 glass 2-3 times per day.

Decoction 30g per litre. (Kresanek, p114).

Comments: ‘Flowers of the white archangel are to be used to stay the whites, and the red to stay the reds in women. It makes the heart merry, drives away melancholy, stauncheth bleeding at the mouth and nose… and is very good against bruises and burnings… The chief use of them is for women, it being a herb of Venus.’ (Culpeper, p35- 36). Usually combined with other remedies.

(Kresanek, p114).

page 85

WOODY NIGHTSHADE Scientific Name: Solanum dulcamara.

Hastate: ‘Having two somewhat out-turned lobes at the base.’ (Usher; 1996;) Synonym/s: Bittersweet; Felonwood. Woody Nightshade.

Common Names: Woody nightshade Plant Family: Solanaceae.

Part/s Used: Leaves, stems, twigs and root bark. (Grieve; 1992), (Ody;).

History: ‘It is excellent good to remove witchcraft both in men and beast.’ (Culpeper; p16). ‘Was in use in this country in the 13th century.’ Used for curing a felon (Whitlow). ‘Name derived from Solor (I ease), testifying to the medicinal power of this genus, and Dulcamara, more correctly written Amaradulcis in the Middle Ages, signifying ‘bittersweet’.’ (Grieve; p589).

Botanical Description: ‘Perennial; Base of the stem is woody, the aerial parts trailing or scrambling; Flowers have bright violet corolla, the anthers in a conspicuous yellow column; Fruit, an ovoid berry, red/scarlet when ripe.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p52). Leaves alternate, cordate; Upper leaves hastate; (Keble Martin ) ‘Flower-clusters always face a different direction to the leaves.’ (Grieve; 1992).

Habitat/Harvesting: Widespread in humid conditions; woodlands, hedgerows, river-banks.

Harvest 2-3 year-old shoots/stems, after leaves have fallen. (Grieve;) Felon: purulent infection involving pulp of distal phalanx of a finger.

Range: Throughout Europe and America. (Grieve; 1992).

Constituents: ‘Toxic alkaloids solaceine and solaneine; Fruits contain some solanine; Stems are rich in saponins.’ (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p52). Alkaloids (including solanidine); Glucoside (Dulcamarin); Gum; Tannin. (Hoffman;) Pharmacognosy: This herb has the ‘power of increasing the secretions, particularly those of the skin and kidneys.’ (Grieve; 1992; p590).

Medical properties: Depurative; Diuretic; Expectorant. (Paris & Schauenberg; ). Astringent; Cleansing. (Ody; 1996; p101). Anti-rheumatic; Mild sedative. (Hoffman; 1990; p180).

Medical uses: Diarrhoea; Dysentery; Hepatic disease; Pityriasis; Psoriasis. (Hoffman; 1990; p180).

Decoction used to treat eczema, chronic bronchitis and asthma. (Paris & Schauenberg; 1990; p52). ‘Asthma, catarrh, fever, jaundice, rheumatism, and whooping cough.’

Externally: ‘Juice from crushed twigs used to treat bruises and skin diseases including scrofula and ulcers.’ (Darwin; 1996; p171).

Specific uses: Bronchial congestion and skin complaints. (Ody; 1996; p102).

Preparations: Dosages: 10 minute infusion, 1 teaspoonful dried herb per cup. (Twice daily).

Tincture 1.0 – 2.0 ml (Thrice daily). (Hoffman; 1990; p180). Fluid extract, 0.5 – 2.0 drachms. (Grieve; 1992; p590). (1 drachm = 4.0ml).

Toxicology: Little toxicity. (Ody; 1996; p101).

CAUTION: THE BERRIES ARE POISONOUS. (Hoffman; 1990; p180). ‘Solanine acts narcotically; in large doses it paralyses the central nervous system, without affecting the peripheral nerves or voluntary muscles. It slows the heart and respiration, lessens sensibility, lowers the temperature and causes

page 87

YARROW Scientific Name: Achillea millefolium.

Synonym/s: Bloodwort; Herbe Militaris; Milfoil; Nose Bleed; Old Man’s Pepper; Soldier’s Woundwort; Sanguinary; Thousand weed.

Common Names: Yarrow.

Plant Family: Compositae.

Part/s Used: Herb.

History: ‘Named after the legendary Greek warrior Achilles’. (Darwin, p73). ‘Dioscorides used it as a haemostatic; In Nordic countries the plant was used in the place of hops in beer production; In Germany in the 16th century the seeds were put in wine barrels as a preservative.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p216).

Botanical Description: ‘The stem is angular, the leaves alternate, clasping the stem at the base, bipinnatifid, the segments very finely cut, giving the leaves a feathery appearance. The white or pale lilac flowers are in flattened, terminal loose heads, or cymes. The whole plant is more or less hairy, with white, silky appressed hairs.’ (Grieve, p863-864).

Habitat/Harvesting: ‘Common and widespread on well drained soils, grasslands and cultivated fields.’ (Paris F. and Schauenberg P., p216). ‘Collect when in flower; Dry quickly, in the shade.’

(Kresanek, p38).

Range: ‘Europe, from Iceland to the Caucasus.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p216).

Constituents: Essential oil (Ol. Millefolii) contains cineol and proazulene; Achilleine (bitter component). (Paris and Schauenberg, p216). Chamazulene, Flavones, Furocoumarins, Mineral Salts, Silica, Tannins. (Kresanek, p38).

Pharmacognosy (Phytochemical Pathways): Cineol is antiseptic, expectorant and stomachic; Proazulene is spasmolytic, astringent and bitter. (Paris and Schauenberg, p216).

Medical Properties: Anti-inflammatory, Bitter tonic, Carminative, Haemostatic, Spasmolytic.

(Kresanek, p38); Aromatic, Stimulant, Vulnerary. (Grieve, p864); Astringent, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Hypotensive. (Hoffman, p243).

Medical Applications: ‘One of the best diaphoretic herbs, a standard remedy for fevers; Lowering blood pressure due to dilation of peripheral vessels; It tones the blood vessels and stimulates the digestion; (Hoffman, p243). Used externally for the healing of wounds, ulcers and burns. It acts to regulate the menstrual cycle and as a tonic to the nervous system. (McIntyre, p44). ‘An infusion is recommended for anorexia and dyspepsia.’ (Paris and Schauenberg, p216).

Specific medical applications: Thrombotic conditions linked to high blood pressure. (Hoffman, p243) Preparations, Dosages: (thrice daily): Dried herb 1.0 –4.0g Tincture 2.0 – 4.0ml. Contraindications & Cautions: Caution in pregnancy.

Comments: ‘The medicinal values of the Yarrow and Sneezewort (Achillea ptarmica) once famous in Physic, were discarded officially in 1781.’ (Grieve, p865).

GLOSSARY OF MEDICAL TERMS ACTION DEFINITION Adaptogen mproves adaptability Alterative cleanses/detoxifies Amphoteric promotes homeostasis Analgesic reduces pain Anodyne reduces pain Anthelmintic/Vermifuge expels worms Anti-abortifacient allays abortion Anti-catarrhal reduces mucous production Anti-cholelithiac prevents gallstones Anti-emetic stops vomiting Anti-inflammatory allays inflammation Antilithic prevents (renal) calculi Antipyretic reduces fever Antiseptic prevents infection

Antispasmodic (spasmolytic) reduces muscular cramps Anti-tussive relieves coughing Astringent binds/constricts tissues Bitter stimulates digestion Carminative reduces flatulence Cholagogue promotes bile flow Choleretic stimulates bile production Demulcent soothes mucous membrane Diaphoretic induces perspiration Diuretic increases micturtion Emmenagogue promotes menstrual discharge Emetic induces vomiting Emollient soothes the skin Expectorant promotes pulmonary evacuation Febrifuge reduces fever Galactagogue stimulates lactation Haemostatic staunches internal bleeding Hepatic (restorative) aids liver function Hypertensive constricts blood vessels Hypocholest/lipid reduces cholesterol levels Hypoglycaemic reduces glucose levels Hypotensive reduces blood pressure Immuno-stimulant stimulates immune system Laxative promotes bowel evacuation Lymphatic (stimulant) stimulates lymphatics Nervine (restorative) promotes nerve healing/function Nutritive nutritive Orexigenic stimulates appetite Purgative promotes toxin expulsion Relaxant relaxes Rubifacient encourages blood flow Sedative calms nervous activity Schedule 3 herb a dangerously toxic herb, not to be taken without medical supervision Soporific promotes sleep Spasmolytic abates muscular spasm Stimulant (circulatory) improves circulation Styptic (ext.) abates bleeding Tranquilizing relaxes and soothes nervous system Urinary (antiseptic) prevents urinary infection Vermifuge expels worms Vulnerary promotes wound healing

BIBLIOGRAPHY Barton J.G. (1963) Wild Flowers; London; Spring Books.

Kresanek Dr. J.; (1982); Plants That Heal; Leicester; Galley Press.

Bratman S. and Harkness R.; (2003); Handbook of Drug-Herb and Drug-Supplement Interactions; London, Philadelphia, Sydney, St. Louis, Toronto; Mosby, Inc.

McAlpine N.; (1903); Gaelic Dictionary, (12th Edition); Edinburgh; John Grant.

Brinker F.; (2001); Herb Contraindications & Drug Interactions, (3rd Edition); Oregon; Eclectic Medical Publications.

British Herbal Medicine Association’s Scientific Committee; (1983); British Herbal Pharmacopoeia; Bournemouth; British Herbal Medicine Association.

Culpeper N.; (date unknown); Culpeper’s British Herbal Complete; Halifax; W. Milner.

Culpeper’s Complete Herbal W. Fousham & Co. Ltd. London Darwin T.; (1996); The Scots Herbal - The Plant Lore of Scotland; Edinburgh; Mercat Press.

Dorland’s; (1995); Pocket Medical Dictionary, 25th Edition; London, Montreal, Philadelphia, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto; W. B. Saunders Company.

Grieve M.; (1992); A Modern Herbal; London; Tiger Books International.

Grigson G.; (1996); The Englishman’s Flora; Oxford; Helicon Publishing Limited.

McIntyre A.; (1997); The Apothecary’s Garden; London; Judy Piatkus (Publishers) Ltd. Mills S. Y.; (1991); The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine; Auckland, Camberwell, London, New Delhi, New York, Rosebank, Toronto; Arkana.

Novak P. D. (Lexicographer); (1995); Dorland’s Pocket Medical Dictionary, (25th Edition); London, Montreal, Philadelphia, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto; Ody P.; (1996); Handbook of Over-the-Counter Herbal Medicines; London; Kyle Cathie limited.

Paris F. and Schauenberg P.; (1990); Guide to Medicinal Plants; Cambridge; The Lutterworth Press.

Tomatova E.; (1981); Wild Flowers; London, New York, Sydney, Toronto; The Hamlyn Publishing Group Limited.

Usher G.; (1996); Dictionary of Botany; Ware; Wordsworth Editions Ltd. Zeylstra Hein, (Peace and Blessings), Personal Correspondence; (1997); School of Herbal Medicine.

W. B. Saunders Company.

Guide to Medicinal Plants; Cambridge; The Lutterworth Press.

Hoffman D; (1990); The New Holistic Herbal; Brisbane, Shaftesbury, Rockport; Element Books Ltd. Keble Martin W.; (1965); The Concise British Flora in Colour; London; Sphere Books.

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A Bampton Community Archive publication.

First published ???

Reprinted September 2018 BCA-00 www.bamptonarchive.org

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