The Wonderful World of Herbs
The Wonderful World of Herbs
Since I became involved with wicca, I have found that one of
my special talents as a witch has been in working with herbs. I firmly
believe that Mother Nature provides everything necessary to combat ANY
illness, and I only turn to western medicine when there is no other
alternative. I am happy to say that I have not needed western medical
intervention in over 5 years. I enjoy taking the time and love to prepare
herbal remedies for my friends and loved ones. Listed below are some of
the more important herbs to keep handy in your household. If you have
any specific questions, please e mail me and I will try my best to help!
Cayenne: As well as being a source of Vitamin C, cayenne is
useful in reducing fevers during flu season. It aids digestion, helps
the circulatory system and when sprinkled in your shoes will prevent
frostbite.
Catnip: Its not just for kitties anymore!! Catnip is a member of
the mint family, and it is a paradox of the mint family that the temperature
of the preparation influences the kind of bodily effect induced. HOT
catnip infusions will ease menstrual cramps, encourage perspiration, bring
on a gentle sleep, and give aid in cases of feverish colds. It will not
leave you feeling drugged upon awakening and does not lead to dependency.
WARM catnip infusions will alleviate nervous headaches and sleeplessness.
COLD catnip will act as a stimulant.
Comfrey: Soothing to the mucus membrane cells. Comfrey will aid sore
throats, ulcers, intestinal inflammations, cuts and internal bruises. Comfrey
contains a special alkaloid called allantoin, which specifically encourages
cell regeneration and the healing of damaged tissues. It also helps knit
minor and major bonebreaks, giving rise to its old English countryname
"knitbone".
Dandelion: Sadly, this is one of the most persecuted plants in the
world. How many of us have put chemicals on our lawns to rid ourselves of
this bright and cheery yellow flower? Dandelion is very nutritious and healing
to man. The leaves contain about 7,000 i.u. of vitamin A per ounce
as well as Vitamins B, C, and E. Dandelion also benefits the spleen, kidneys,
gall bladder, and female reproductive organs. It is gentle on the body and
can be taken for extended periods of time.
Echinacea: A very potent herbal antibiotic and one of my personal
favorites! This is a very potent herb, not to be used for every minor
wound or sore throat. It acts strongly upon the lymph and circulatory
system, and can be used effectively in treating acute cases of strep
throat, advanced blood poisoning, pneumonia, and abcessed wisdom teeth.
WARNING because it is such a potent antibiotic, I recommend that
it should only be taken no longer than 7 days in a row. You should also
refrain from taking it for 7 days before you start up again on it. Too
much echinacea in the system will have a reverse effect on your immunity
and will over time act to break down your immune system!
Mugwort: This plant is sacred to the Goddess Artemis, and the symbol
of herbal practitioners in many lands for thousands of years. Mugwort may
be used for relief of menstrual cramps, bringing on delayed menses and relief
in water retention. Native Americans used it to aid colds, fevers, rheumatic
problems and bronchial congestion. I personally use mugwort for its strong
psychic properties. When used in a dream pillow, it frequently brings
vivid prophetic dreams and aids in lucid dreaming. Give it a try!!
Peppermint: The pleasant smell alone is reason enough to keep this
herb in your house! Peppermint relieves digestive upsets and is an effective
headache remedy. You can also brew a strong cup of peppermint tea in the
morning as a caffeine substitute. Chewing on the fresh leaves can quiet
a queasy stomach. Peppermint tea combined with elder flower is an excellent
flu remedy and will help break a fever. Stay well covered and warm as this
combination will bring on heavy sweating.
Raspberry: One of the most important herb for a woman to have on
hand. Raspberry contains a substance called fragrine that is particularly
active in the female reproductive system. Raspberry tea daily is recommended
for expectant mothers by midwives worldwide for its strengthening, nutritive
and tonic effects on the womb. It eases morning sickness, when taken
consistently it prevents miscarriage and eases labor and delivery. For
women who are not pregnant, it regulates cycles, eases cramps, brings on
delayed flows and decreases excessive flows. What a treasure plant!
Email: lady-dydan@mailexcite.com
