full shade
Pulmonaria
Submitted by kitchenwitch on Sat, 05/31/2008 - 17:51.Pulmonaria officinalis
Pulmonaria or lungwort is a European native with large hairy leaves, green often mottled with light green or white, which appear in basal rosettes.
Lungworts multiply quickly and can be propagated by division or seed. They prefer moist soil in a cool, shady spot protected from afternoon heat. In hot climates they will go dormant in the summer and return in the autumn when temperatures cool down again.
Slugs love it and woodchucks will also eat it.
The latin name Pulmonaria comes from "pulmo" which means, the lung. In English, Lungwort and the German Lungenkraut also refer to the lungs. Some Eastern European names refer to honey instead, such as the Russian "medunitza" and the Polish "miodunka"
Lungwort is associated with the element air and is used for protection when traveling through air.
Pulmonaria leaves are used in sympathetic magic to represent diseased lungs.
As its name implies lungwort is useful for bronchial and pulmonary complaints. It is best prepared as an infusioni.
Mayapple
Submitted by DawnBlack on Mon, 01/07/2008 - 22:24.- abortifacient
- Alterative
- American mandrake
- Attracts faeries
- Cathartic
- cytostatic
- Devil's apple
- Emetic
- Fertility
- Fire
- full shade
- Groundcover
- hog apple
- Indian apple
- laxitive
- may apple
- May Flower
- Perennial
- Podophyllum peltatum
- Poison
- protection
- purgative
- Sagittarius
- Saturn
- secrets
- success
- umbrella plant
- vermifuge
- wild lemon
- Woodland Plant
Podophyllum peltatum
Mayapple is an American native member of the plant family Berberidaceae common to woodland clearings in the Northern and Eastern United States and Southern Canada.
Mayapple spreads from underground rhizomes to quickly form a colony that shades out smaller plants. It makes an excellent groundcover for unused areas and grows well in dappled shade. It likes light, loamy soil, shade, but not deep shade and plenty of space to spread out. You can gather seeds or rhizomes to plant or you might find a transplant in a native plant nursery. (I got mine from the local plant conservancy- they gather wild plants from construction sites and then sell them to the public.)
It's good to keep them moist, not wet, and free of weeds until established. Once they are established, they will spread like crazy and crowd out weaker plants. Remember that it will take a few years before they starti producing fruits.
According to lore, Native Americans used this plant for its healing attributes but also to commit suicide.
The botanical name Podophyllum peltatum comes from the greek "podos" and "phyllon" meaning "foot-shaped leaves" and "Peltatum" meaning "shield".
The root (which is extremely dangerous to handle or ingest) should be dried away from sunlight. The effective constituents are not water soluble and must be dissolved in alcohol.
The fruit may be made into jelly or sliced thin and dried or dried whole for use in spells.
Make sure to wear gloves while handling the foilage or roots of this plant and wash your hands thoroughly before touching your face or eyes.
The poisonous rhizome can be boiled and used to kill insects on crop plants, especially potatoesi. Make sure that the resulting potion is only sprinkled on the inedible (to humans) parts of the plants, such as tomato leaves and the aerial parts of potato plants.
The powdered root is used in powerful protective magic. Mayapple is extremely irritating to the eyes and Mayapple root is used in spells to keep things (like diaries, books of shadows, etc.) hidden from prying eyes. The powder can be sprinkled around the storage area or on the object itself, or around the perimeter of an area where you do not wish to be disturbed. (Remember that Mayapple is a topical poison while doing this. Take care not to let the powder sit on your skin or come in contact with your eyes.)
The dried fruit can also be added to sachets and mojo bags to similar purpose, that is to allow the bearer to work in secret, or to allow his or her actions to not be revealed too soon.
The whole root can be tucked under the mattress to ensure the fertility and verility of the couple who sleep upon it.
Kept in a high place in the home, Mayapple root is said to draw prosperity to the home and protect it from bad luck.
This herb is commonly used as a substitution in spells calling for Mandrake (Atropa mandragora)
Mayapple is listed as "unsafe" by the FDA and most experts agree that its action is too strong for self-medication even by experienced herbalists. Every part, excepting the ripe fruit, is deadly poison and can kill an adult human within 24 hours.
It was used by Native American tribes, who dried and powdered the root, as a laxitive and to remove worms and as a topical treatment for warts and skin cancer.
Modern medicine has found compounds in the rhizome that are useful against cancer and it is used in the treatment of genital warts and skin cancers in Asia. It is also under study for use against dropsy, dispepsia, biliousness, and various liver conditions.
Symptoms of mayapple poisoning are salviation, vomiting, diarrhea, excitement, fever, headache, coma, and death.
Only the ripe fruit or "apple" of the mayapple is edible. The fruit is ripe when it is yellow and slightly soft. Dispite its name, the flavor is more like lemon than apple. Mayapples may be eaten raw, but they are best cooked or made into jelly. They may also be juiced and mixed with sugar and water to make a beverage similar to lemonade(remove all seeds before juicing). These fruits should be eaten only in moderation and only when perfectly ripe. It has been known to cause technicolor diarrhea.
Here's an article from Mother Earth News about cooking with Mayapples. An excellent idea for your Beltane celebrations (assuming you've got some ripe, if not, hold off till Midsummer)
If you're using an old European spelli that calls for Mandrake, you can use this plant instead. But remember, both plants are very poisonous and substitutions of dangerous plants should never be made with other dangerous plants when you are making things that are to be administerd topically or ingested. I suggest using the fruit instead of the root as a much safer alternative. It is slower to action and not as intense, but it is still effective.
False Solomon's Seal
Submitted by DawnBlack on Mon, 01/07/2008 - 20:15.Smilacina spp
As its name would imply, False Solomon's Seal looks quite a bit like True Solomon's Seal.
False Solomon's Seal enjoys a moist shady location with well-drained soil, neutral to slightly acidic. It will do well alongside a stream or pond and will tolerate some sun, but not full sun. It prefers a cooler situation and will benefit from mulching to keep the roots cool during hot summers. It can be grown from rhizomes or from seed, though the seed may take as much as 18 months to germinate. Plants can be divided in spring or early autumn.
This plant is a true survivor and often the first to return after a forest fire. Use it to help you get through hard times and to rebuild after your world has come crashing down.
The smoke of the root has been used to calm hysterics.
An infusioni of the root has been used for constipation, rheumatism, as a general stomach tonic, and to regular women's cycles. An infusion of the leaf has been used as birth control- 1/2 cup per day for no more than a week is said to prevent conception. A decoction of the leaf is said to be useful for colds and rheumatism, 1 cup 2-3 times per day.
Externally, the root relieves pain, has antiseptic qualities and stops bleeding. The dried powdered root is a useful thing to have on hand for first aid. The crushed, fresh root makes a soothing poultice for strains, sprains, boils, arthritis and swellings.
An infusion of the root has been used for inflamed eyes.
The berries are edible and bittersweet but large quantities have a laxitive affect. This is removed by cooking. Young leaves may be eaten raw or cooked and the young shoots may be eaten like asparagus. The root should be soaked in a bowl of water with a few teaspoons of baking soda added for several hours before cooking.
This plant is fabulous in the garden, just its presence is calming. Plant it a a quiet area where you go to relax when things get to be just too much.
Hellebore
Submitted by DawnBlack on Mon, 01/07/2008 - 20:14.Helleborus spp.
Native to much of Europe. Helebores are members of the family Ranunculaceae, which is often confused with members of the Rosacea family.
Hellebore will grow in any well-drained garden soil and is extremely shade tolerant. It is great for underplantings around shrubs and troublesome shady spots in the garden. Seedlings can be directly sowed or started indoors and transplanted no later than their second year. Sometimes it takes a few years for flowers to appear. Be patient and your Hellebore will bloom by its third year.
Divide as necessary in Mid to late summer once the root stock is big enough to be cut.
Hellebore is extremely poisonous. It is best to wear gloves when working with it to avoid absorption through the skin.
Ancient herbals distinguish between Black Hellebore and White Hellebore. White Hellebore has been identified by modern scholars as a plant now known as False Hellebore. Black Hellebore, on the other hand has been identified as Helleborus officianalis, a native of Greece and Asia Minor.
The genus name, Helleborus comes from the Greek elein, meaning "to injur" and bora, meaning "food" alluding to the plant's poisonous nature.
Melampodium, an old name for Hellebore, refers to the ancient physician Melampus who used Hellebore to cure the daughters of the king of Argos of the madness of the maenads. Where they drunk? Did the herb make them vomit themselves sober?
Some have speculated the Alexander the Great died of Hellebore poisoning while being treated for an illness.
In Christian lore, the first Hellebore grew from the spot where a little girl's tear dropped onto the snow because she had no gift for the Christ child.
According to some sources, Hellebore was an ingredient in the legendary "flying ointmenti".
Wear gloves while harvesting. Harvest hellebore just after it blooms, on a moonless night, if you want to get fancy. Hang to dry and store in a sealed container away from moisture and light.
Hellebore will brighten up the shady corners of your garden and perhaps discourage critters from raiding it.
Hellebore is associated with Mars and Saturn and corresponds to the element water.
It is used in magic for healing of mental/emotional afflictions and for banishing and exorcisms. It has been used also for increasing intelligence and for protection and invisibility spells. Apparently the plant was dried and powdered and scattered around the person to be made invisible. Ancient magicians also used hellebore to change the nature of other plants, to make their fruits have various unpleasant and uhealthy properties by either grafting the plants together or using hellebore as fertilizer.
This is a banefuli herb which should never be ingested and you should wear gloves when handling it.
Hellebore was traditionally used as a cure for poisoning of livestock and was considered by the ancient Greeks to be a cure for insanity. It was also used as a powerful purgative. Its use is not advised by anyone today.
None. This is a poisonous herb.
Although Hellebore is extremely poisonous, it is also extremely unpleasant to put into one's mouth. Thus, it's not as dangerous as it could be. Animals and children who may put it in their mouth will likely spit it right back out. However, handling it extensively is not advised either because toxins may absorb through the skin.
For magical purposes, roses can be substituted for hellebore.
Cyclamen
Submitted by kitchenwitch on Sun, 01/06/2008 - 22:09.Cyclamen spp
Cyclamen is a low-growing perennial native to the Mediterranean region and Northeast Africa where they grow as an understory plant in dry forested areas.
Most cyclamens cannot tolerate any frost, although there are some hardy species available in nurseries. In the North, they are best grown in pots so they can be brought indoors and protected from heat and frost. Allowing the plant to become too warm will cause it to go dormant. Don't throw it away, but be patient and it will return when the temperatures cool down a bit. 65 degrees is the ideal temperature for them.
Plant the corm just below the surface in a rich sandy soil. Water when the soil becomes dry (less often when dormant) and fertilize once a month with a mild fertilizer. It should bloom all winter long for you if you don't keep your house too warm.
Harvest the tuber in it's second or third year in the summer after the plant has gone dormant.
Slice thin and roast slowly until thoroughly dry and then pound into a powder. Store in a sealed container.
Cyclamen was prescribed by Dioscorides for just about everything from snake bite and other poisons to cataracts to boils. It was said also that a woman who walked over cyclamen while pregnant would abort and those who ate cakes made of it would fall violently in love. Added to wine, it ensured the drinker would be thoroughly drunk.
The name sowbread comes from its reported popularity as a food source among wild pigs in its native region.
The name Cyclamen comes from the Greek kyklaminos, meaning circlei. It may be a reference to the spiraling habit of the seed stem.
In the language of flowers, Cyclamen is a gracious way to say goodbye.
For European gardeners- The plant is used as food by the larvae of the gothic moth (Naenia typica) in Europe and may be a useful addition to butterfly gardens enjoyed at night as well as during the day there.
Cyclamen is sacred to Hecate.
It is feminine in nature and associated with the element of water and the planet Mars. It is both passive and active.
Cyclamen may be incorporated into any spell designed to increase joy and happiness in a situation, to increase affection in a relationship and your good old fashioned love spell. Likewise, it can be used to the opposite affect, to gently send away an unwanted person.
Cyclamen hederaefolium is the species most associated with the love spell. Small cakes made of the roasted tuber are said to cause the one who eats them to fall violently in love with the one who bakes them, or become violently ill, whatever. (Please see cautions)
It may also be a useful addition to wedding cakes (see warnings) and is an appropriate decoration for handfastings. It is certainly a suitable houseplant for adorning the bedroom as it increases the libido and fertility. It will also keep away nightmares and prevent negative spells cast at household members from taking effect.
The oil or the flower itself may be worn to protect one against a broken heart. It is also useful for candle-magic love spells.
It's best use, either the oil, the plant itself or the powdered, roasted root, is in spells designed to build confidence, self-esteem and self love.
Cyclamen is used in homeopathic medicine to bring on late menstruation and as a treatment for vertigo and dizziness and various other irritations of the head.
It has also been used to expel worms. 8-10 grains of the dried powdered root are used.
This is an extreme plant. There are safer alternatives.
It is a very powerful purgative.
Eating the raw root can cause violent purging, but this effect disappears after it is roasted. It can then be pounded into a sort of flour for use in cooking and baking. I have found no recipes for this! I do not recommend trying this as I can find no good instructions for how to do it safely and properly. Please contact me if you have more information on this.
Some notes of caution
This plant is poisonous to cats and fish.
Cyclamen is a very powerful, violent purgative! Use with caution and in very small quantities. Pregnant women should never use this plant, internally or externally, for any purpose!
However, it is a very lovely groundcover for those shady spots in your garden.
Comfrey
Submitted by kitchenwitch on Sun, 01/06/2008 - 21:48.Symphytum spp
Varieties
Wild or common comfrey Symphytum officinale L
Prickly or rough comfrey S. asperum Lepechin (Do not use this internally)
Comfrey prefers a cooler climate and is hardy down to -40 degrees, so it is a nice addition to northern herb gardens. It prefers full sun, but might need some shade if you live in a very hot place. Soil should be rich, but it's not picky. It appreciates a bit of fertilizer once in awhile.
It is most often propagated by root cuttings. Plant in spring, as soon as you can work the soil. 2-4 inches deep in rich soil. Give it about two feet of space to grow. Comfrey likes it moist, so water regularly if it does not rain.
Flowering stems should be removed in the first year, so that the plant's energy is focused on a sturdy root and leaf system. After that, you can let the plant flower. Growth continues while the plant is in flower.
Comfrey has been cultivated for healing since 400 BCE. It was used by such notable Greek physicians as Herodotus, Nicander, Galen and Dioscorides. It continued to be used throughout history and its use spread throughout Europe.
The name Symphytum comes from the Greek meaning "Grow together" + "plant". And comfrey comes from the Latin meaning to grow together.
The more you harvest this plant, the more it will grow. It should be harvested in early May, just before it blooms, for the greatest potency. Collect the leaves as needed and spread out to dry.
Because comfrey roots dig so deep in search of nutrients, these nutrients are then stored in their leaves, which lack fiber and break down quickly. Thus, comfrey is an excellent compost plant and can be laid in the beds of other plants to act as fertilizer.
It is a great addition to compost in moderation. Make sure you balance it with firmer plant matter, or you'll get gooey compost.
Rot the leaves down in water for several weeks to produce a concentrated liquid fertilizer. Or make comfrey tea.
Boiling the root in water yields a sticky paste which you may or may not find some use for.
Comfrey is associated with Saturn and Water and is sacred to Hecate.
Comfrey is used in protective magic for the traveler and to protect against theft. Try placing a comfrey leaf in your luggage to make sure it isn't lost or stolen. Use comfrey root in sachets for protection while traveling, and to keep your lover faithful while you are gone. Also use it in sachets to protect vehicles. Hang from your rearview mirror or hide it under a seat.
Wrap your money in a comfrey leaf for several days before going to a casino or poker game. It will help keep your bets coming back to you.
Comfrey flowers, especially blue ones, can be substituted in any spelli calling for borage.
Use comfrey in a bath after rituali to relax and cleanse you, especially for healing or love spells.
It can be burned in combination with mugwort to aid in divinationi and concentration and by itself or in combination for spells associated with letting to of unhealthy relationships.
Wild comfrey contains allantoin, which is found in the milk of nursing mothers. It encourages cell reproduction and thus stimulates the healing of wounds. It also has a high mucilage content, which smooths the skin. This makes comfrey a valuable addition to salves and lotions and a soothing addition to baths.
Try adding comfrey to salves for burns, acne, bruising, abrasions and other topical complaints. It can also be used in poultices for breaks and strains and to reduce swelling from any cause.
Comfrey should not, however, be used for very deep or puncture wounds, because it can actually make the surface heal faster than the lower part of the wound, causing abscesses. Make sure a wound has been thoroughly cleaned before applying comfrey, so as not to seal dirt inside the wound.
The boiled roots yield a sticky paste which dries hard, and it has been used to set bandages. Simply spread it on the bandage, and then wrap the wound.
Taken internally, as a tea, the leaves are said to help speed the healing of broken bones and other internal injuries. The root is used for persistent, painful coughs as well as hemorrhage and ulcers.
However, one should be aware that comfrey can cause liver damage and is potentially carcinogenic. Interestingly, the toxic components are similar to those founds in acetaminophen, or Tylenol. But you wouldn't want to eat alot of that either. So keep your internal consumption of comfrey to a minimum and don't use it for long periods of time. Russian and prickly comfrey have the highest concentrations of toxic alkaloids, and the roots of any variety have higher concentrations than the leaves. These alkaloids are separate from the active healing constituents.
Comfrey should not be used internally or externally for longer than four to six consecutive weeks.
Pregnant or lactating women should not use comfrey.
No not use comfrey on deep or puncture wounds! The exterior of the wound where the medicine is applied will heal faster than the inside where the medicine can’t reach and you could end up with a pretty disgusting infection.
Although comfrey has been used for food in the past, recent evidence suggests that it contains carcinogenic compounds and can cause liver damage. Therefore, it is not advisable to use comfrey as a major food product. Russian and Prickly comfrey have the highest levels
of toxic alkaloids. In all varieties, the roots have higher concentrations than the leaves.
Comfrey does provide protein and a little bit of vitamin B12, which is rare in a plant source. The young leaves can be eaten like any leafy vegetable, but the mature leaves are unpleasant.
Comfrey roots, combined with dandelioni roots and chicory roots are said to make a good coffee substitute.
Coltsfooot
Submitted by kitchenwitch on Sun, 01/06/2008 - 21:24.- Antitussive
- Ass's foot
- Bull's foot
- Butterbur
- Clayweed
- Cleats
- Coltsfoot
- Coughwort
- demulcent
- Divination
- Donnhove
- Farfara
- Fieldhove
- Filius ante patrem
- Foal's foot
- full shade
- Hallfoot
- Healing
- Horse Foot
- Horsehoof
- Imbolc
- Love
- Ostara
- Pas d'âne
- peace
- Perennial
- tranquility
- Tun Hoof
- tussilago farfara
- Venus
- Water
- Winter heliotrope
Tussilago farfara
This is a plant in the Compositae family, to which dandelions and sunflowers also belong. The flower is similar in appearance to a dandelioni and forms a similar fluffy white seed head.
Coltsfoot is a perennial. It should be grown in a damp area, preferably in clay soil in a full sun position. Will tolerate some shade, but not much. Coltsfoot is invasive and travels underground by rhizomes, so cultivating it may be frowned upon in some neighborhoods. You might be better off to keep it in a pot to keep it from escaping. Try planting in a large pot sunk into the flower bed.
The name Farfarus is an ancient name for the Poplar tree, which has similar leaves.
Tussilago means "cough dispeller".
Theocritus's Idyll 2 mentions coltsfoot in the context of a spelli to bring back a wandering lover.
The flowers should be collected when they bloom in early spring and the leaves after Midsummer.
Coltsfoot is one of the first flowers to emerge in the springtime, often appearing as early as February. This and its bright sunny yellow flowers make it suitable for springtime rituals welcoming the return of the sun, such as Imbolc, Ostara and Beltain- depending on when they bloom that particular year! The long stems can be woven into wreaths.
Coltsfoot has been used as in love, tranquility and money spells and burned during divinationi rites. It is also burned in divinatory and healing incense.
Both flowers and leaves make an excellent cough remedy in conjunction with horehound, licorice and marshmallow. You can make it into a syrup or tea. Steep 1-2 teaspoons of leaves or flowers in 1 cup boiling water. Drink no more than 3 cups daily. It can also be smoked by those with asthma, bronchitis and other lung problems, particularly those involving wet coughs.
Hot or cold coltsfoot tea compresses can be applied to swollen areas, and a cool such compress is soothing on the forehead or stomach when one has a fever.
A poultice of the leaves or flowers can be applied to eczema, sores, ulcers and insect bites.
The root is also useful for similar purposes, but it has higher levels of potentially toxic alkaloids and it is not recommended that it be used internally. Alli parts of coltsfoot contains these alkaloids, which can cause liver disease, but the leaves and flowers are considered safe for normally healthy adults to use in moderation. If you still aren't better after a few days, switch off with mullein for awhile.
Do not use while pregnant, trying to conceive or nursing. Do not give to children (that is, folks who are still growing).
Do not take more than 3 cups of coltsfoot tea per day, for three days. Do not take coltsfoot for more than 30 days out of the year.
Don't combine coltsfoot with blood pressure medication.
People who are allergic to ragweed are also likely to be allergic to coltsfoot, proceed with caution.
People with a history of alcohol abuse or liver disease should not take coltsfoot. Do not combine coltsfoot with other potentially liver damaging substances, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or comfrey.
If you ever begin to feel nausiated while using this herb, stop immediately. It is not a "normal" side affect, but a sign that the coltsfoot is hurting your liver.
Flowerbuds and young flowers can be added to salads or steamed as a vegetable. The flavor is similar to anise.
The leaves can also be added to salads, soups or steamed as a vegetable. The flavor is similar to licorice.
It is not recommended that you make a habit of eating coltsfoot because of its potential toxicity in high doses, but it is a nice, sunny addition to the Ostara or Imbolc feast.
Do not confuse common coltsfoot with Western coltsfoot Petastites frigidus, which has much higher levels of potentially toxic alkaloids. This plant may not be used to substitute for the other under any circumstance.
Coltsfoot, like Comfrey, has come under fire for containing pyrrolizidine alkaloids which can cause liver damage and there have even been suggestions that it be banned. That being said, Tylenol contains these same alkaloids. Therefore, I suggest you take the same precautions with coltsfoot (and comfrey) as you would with Tylenol. Don't overdose. Do not take tablets containing concentrated comfrey or coltsfoot. If you do use them internally, use them in their natural form or in tea and use the leaves, not the roots. If you begin to feel nauseated, stop using them. Don't use them in combination with other PA containing substances. Pick your poison, don't mix them. Don't use them for long periods of time. No more than a week. And don't use them more than three times a day. Some herbalists also suggest using milk thistle extract once you've completed a course of coltsfoot (or Tylenol/acetamenophen for that matter) as milk thistle is believed to help the liver heal after stress. And, of course, if you've ever had liver issues before, don't use coltsfoot, comfrey or Tylenol.
Bloodroot
Submitted by DawnBlack on Sun, 01/06/2008 - 20:03.Sanguinaria canadensis
Bloodroot is an herbaceous flowering perennial native to the Eastern North American woodlands.
Bloodroot is a native american plant which can be found growing wild in hardwood forests throughout Eastern North America. However, because it is collected by many herbalists and magic-users and because of habitat loss, I do not suggest gathering this plant from the wild. Unlike many wildflowers, it is relatively easy to grow in a shady spot in your yard. You may be able to purchase plants from a plant conservancy or a native plant dealer in your area. Do not take bloodroot from the woods or from parks. Unless you have the permission of the landowner, this is illegal.
You can propagate bloodroot by seed or by cuttings or by division. It will spread by its rhisomes and its seeds forming lovely clumps.
Bloodroot likes a shady position in a well-drained, slightly acidic soil with high organic content. It likes to be grown with other plants, and black cohosh is a wonderful companion for bloodroot. It generally prefers to be kept moist, but is pretty forgiving. You'll want to mulch well with dead lives or woodchips to give it the feeling of being in the woods.
Don't worry if your plant seems to die in the summer. It does go dormant and will probably return in the spring.
The roots grow a bit bigger each year and are best harvested around the sixth year. You should divide your clumps every 4 years or so to keep them vigorous.
Bloodroot is very attractive to slugs. If they become a problem, fill a tuna can with beer and half bury it near the bloodroot.
Bloodroot is a native American wildflower that was used by the native population for red dye. It was apparently used as body paint as well, though it must have been cut with some other ingredient to prevent serious skin damage.
Bloodroot has enjoyed a long history of traditional medicinal use, but lately has come under fire due to its caustic nature. It has been used in toothpastes and most recently as an antibacterial agent in meat production in Europe.
After harvesting, wash the roots thoroughly taking care not to bruise or break the skin. Lay on a screen to dry in a warm place with good air flow. Protect the roots from light and humidity. Roots are done drying when they have shrunk 1/4 of their original size and can be bent without breaking. The dried bloodroots can be stored in paper or cardboard away from heat, moisture or light for up to two years.
The red root sap yields an interesting but caustic red dye. It can be used to stain wood as well.
Bloodroot is a popular protective hexi-breaker in Voodoo and Rootwork magic. It is also a marriage protector and aids in promoting harmony with extended family members, especially in-laws and helps prevent people from interfering in your marriage.
Bloodroots vary in color with the darker red to brownish roots being considered male or King roots and the lighter orangei to pinkish roots being considered female or Queen roots. Combined in a single sachet of red flannel, these are used to encourage a healthy marital sex life by placing the sachet under the couple's mattress. Likewise, a bit of one of each root steeped in liquor, sometimes in combination with other herbs, is said to ensure sexual potency. After the herbs have steeped for several weeks, strain and drink a shot of the liquor to acheive the desired affect.
Place a bloodroot over your door to encourage anyone who enters to respect your marriage.
If you fear someone is trying to break up your marriage, sew some dried bloodroot into yours and your spouse's pillows.
Bloodroot can be carried or placed around the home (very high out of the reach of pets and children) as general protection from negative energy or spells or it can be burned to cleanse an area of negative energy.
Assuming you're not expected to eat it or rub it on your body, bloodroot can be used in place of blood in spells. Dried bloodroot can be pounded into powder and added to water to reach the desired consistancy.
Most of the active constituents of bloodroot is stored in the rhizome. This sap is very toxic. It contains morphine like compounds and also destroys animal tissue. It is traditionally used in herbal medicine as a component to ointments designed to destroy abnormal skin growths such as malinoma, warts and skin tags. This is an extremely painful process and can result in serious scarring if not done properly. The FDA has investigated and prosecuted practitioners for carrying out this particular remedy.
However, the FDA has approved sanguinarine, a constituent in bloodroot sap, for use in toothpaste and mouthwash to help destroy plaque, though it has been linked to oral lesions.
Bloodroot has also been used for sore throats, the juice dropped onto lumbs of maple sugar which is then sucked. It is also said to have expectorant and emetic properties.
It is my opinion, however, that Bloodroot should only be used for its ornamental and magical values and should never be applied to the skin or taken internally and should not be handled by pregnant women. Long term use of bloodroot has been linked to oral cancer, glaucoma, edema, heart disease, miscarriage, fainting, collapse, vision changes and diarrhea.
None.
Bloodroot is poison.
Blue Cohosh
Submitted by Guest on Sun, 01/06/2008 - 19:27.Caulophyllum thalictroides
Blue cohosh is a pretty, feathery wildflower that grows in North American woodlands. It's one of my favorite denizens of the woods. It's just an elegant plant.
If you are going to plant Blue Cohosh, you will need a forest, or a forest-like area. It needs shade, and rich, moist, humusy soil. You can grow it best from a rhizome or you may be able to find a potted plant somewhere. I got mine from a plant conservancy (they go in and rescue native wildflowers from sites where condos and the like are being built and sell them to the public) and planted it off the trail in my woods, and she has done quite well there. Seeds can be difficult to germinate. They require repeated cold stratification and may take up to three seasons to germinate. Once you get her going though, she's a relatively easy plant to care for. Alli she needs is alot of shade. Too much sun (even 25%) will kill her.
If you are going to make your own blue cohosh potions, please try to grow it yourself rather than collecting it in the wild. Surely there's a spot under a big shade tree you can pile some shredded leaves to make a home for this elegant lady! She'll dance well with hellebore, or lily of the valley (not that I recommend ever growing lily of the valley) and will make a lovely companion for a hosta. Be careful when handling this plant as some people have problems with contact dermatitis from it.
Native Americans and early settlers used blue cohosh tea for a wide range of complaints.
Give the plant three years or so to get big and strong before digging up the roots in the fall.
Roots should be cut into small pieces and dried.
Blue Cohosh can be used to protect objects and places from evil. It can be added to washes to protective washes (like car rinse water, etc.) and it is also used in bundles to protect infants and children. Just don't let the kids get ahold of it!
Blue Cohosh is described as a uterine tonic. It is said to improve uterine muscle tone. It is used to stimulate contractions during childbirth and also to bring on a late period. Use of blue cohosh to bring on contractions is not recommended because its toxicity could affect the newborn. Many midwives have reported increased fetal heart rate and fetal distress related to the use of blue cohosh. It also increases blood flow to the pelvic area, so it may cause extra problems if not used with great care.
Anyone who is pregnant and wishes to stay that way, should not use it! It is traditionally used in combination with black cohosh and pennyroyal to terminate pregnancy. It may also be used to help the uterus return to its normal size after childbirth, to help the uterus recover after a miscarriage, or to help expel the placenta after childbirth
Paradoxically, blue cohosh has been used to strengthen the uterus in women who are prone to miscarriage. It is used to this end for several months prior to conception and then discontinued before attempting conception. Using blue cohosh while attempting to get pregnant, may prevent implantation of a fertilized egg.
In addition to these, blue cohosh has been used for a number of women's health issues, especially those related to the uterus. These include endometriosis, cervical dysplasia and many menstrual complaints, including weak, spotty periods, irregular menstruation and painful menstruation.
For all of these, an alcohol extract is advise.
Blue Cohosh is an estrogenic plant, so people with estrogen-dependant tumors should not use it. Also, anyone who has been advised not to take birth control pills, or use any other sort of hormonal birth control, should not use this herb without consulting a physician. It is also quite hard on the heart and kidneys and should not be used by anyone who has any concerns about the health of theirs. Blue Cohosh tends to lower blood pressure. If you already have a problem with this, you could have serious problems. Headache, pain in the limbs and vomiting can occur at toxic levels. If this happens, see a doctor immediately.
The entire plant is toxic and should not be eaten.
Blue and black cohosh, and castor oil for that matter, are not the best ways to induce labor. Neither is pitocin. You might be surprised to discover that nipple stimulation (a whole lot of it, like several hours) is a very efficient way to induce labor.
Solomon's Seal
Submitted by DawnBlack on Sat, 12/29/2007 - 13:40.Polygonatum biflorum
Solomon's Seal is a lovely woodland perennial with native varieties in North America, Asia and Europe. It can grow up to two feet tall.
Solomon's Seal prefers a light soil, a good mulch and a shady location. It can be grown by division or by seed. It will return year after year and spread itself. It is a lovely, delicate addition to a shade garden.
Some areas list Solomon's Seal as an invasive weed.
Solomon's Seal is named for King Solomon of Hebrew lore who was granted great wisdom by the Hebrew God and had a special seal that aided him in his magical workings, allowing him to command demons without coming to harm.
According to herbal lore, King Solomon himself placed his seal upon this plant when he recognized its great value. Those with imagination can see the seal on the root stock in the circular scars left by the stem after it dies back.
Solomon's Seal has also been traditional used to "seal" wounds.
You can estimate the plant's age by examining the rhizome. Each year the stem leaves on scar, or "seal" on the rhizome. Counting these will give you an idea of how long your plant has been alive.
Although this plant is not currently listed as endangered, the usual warnings about responsible wildcrafting apply. Because this plant is so easy to grow in a shady garden bed, wildcrafting is usually not necessary.
Gather the rhisomes in the fall and lay on a screen to dry in a warm, dry location with good circulation free from humidity and sunlight. Once dry, store in a cool location away from light.
Solomon's Seal aids one in making difficult decisions and accepting and seeking change. Helps in spellwork to aid changing/breaking habits and helps in smooth transitions for changes beyond our control. It is also used in love potions to amplify commitment between partners and to "seal" a spelli or a sacred oath or promise.
An infusioni of Solomon's Seal, or insense made of Solomon's Seal root can both be used to drive away negative vibrations and malicious spirits. It can also be used to summon helpful spirits and elementals.
The root can be carried as an amuleti to ward off malicious spirits and to increase wisdom.
Solomon's Seal is appropriate for use during Autumn Equinox rituals.
The fresh root, pounded and applied topically helps fade bruising. (I have not tried this on a hicky, but it might work for that too.) A decoction can also be used as a facial rinse to help fade blemishes or for poison ivy and similar skin problems.
An infusioni can be used for profuse menstruation and internal bleeding, indigestion and other stomach and digestive complaints including ulcers, bowel problems and hemmorhoids. It is also said to speed the healing of broken bones. Used as a mouthwash, it is said to help strengthen gums.
Solomon's Seal root tea is a good tonic acting on the kidneys, heart and sexual organs as well as soothing the digestive system.
Oil infused with Solomon's Seal root is good to keep on hand for first aid treatment of sprains, strains and broken or bruised bones. (Not to replace, but to enhance traditional medical intervention.) Solomon's Seal root tea or tincture aids in the repair of broken bones and may be drunk after a doctor has set the break. It is also great for torn ligaments, disolcations and other issues with joints.
Young shoots harvested in early spring can be prepared and eaten like asparagus.
The roots should be boiled with three changes of water before being roasted and eaten.
Alli parts of the adult plant, especially the berries are poisonous and should not be consumed.
Solomon's Seal seem innocuous, but parts of it are poisonous. Seek out a personal consultating with a skilled herbalist before using internally for food or medicine.
