Hemostatic
Eggplant
Submitted by kitchenwitch on Fri, 09/18/2009 - 16:18.Solanum melongena
Eggplant is a tender perennial native to Asia. It grows up to 3 feet tall with a similar spread and has wide, coarsely lobed leaves. The stem is often prickly.
Eggplant may be started indoors 8-10 weeks before the last frost. They should be planted out in a sunny location only after the nights have warmed up to more than 50 degrees. They like fertile soil so add some compost when you plant them. Plant 18-24 inches apart. (I plant them in the four corners of the planter box.)
Mulch around the base of stems to keep off weeds and help retain moisture as well as to keep the roots warm in case of a cold snap. Start pinching off flowers as the growing season comes to an end so that the plant concentrates on ripening existing fruits.
It is believed that eggplant originated in India but it was first cultivated in China. Thomas Jefferson first introduced eggplant to the US in 1806.
Interesting note: Eggplant seeds contain nicotine. About 20 pounds will equal the same amount as a cigarette.
Cut away fruit when they are plump and glossy and big enough to use. Store in the refrigerator and use within a few days.
A diet high in eggplant is helpful for type 2 diabetes. It is high in fiber and has a low glycemic index.
Eggplant is also purported to help lower cholesterol and offer some protection against cancer and heart disease.
However, eggplant should be avoided by those who suffer from gout and other inflammatory issues.
Folklore says that eggplants shouldn't be eaten by pregnant women because they may cause miscarriages.
Before using, slice and salt your eggplant and let it sit for a few minutes then rinse to remove bitter flavor. This will also reduce the amount of oil your eggplant absorbs during cooking as eggplants can absorb rediculous amounts of oil. Eggplant is delicious stewed, roasted or fried.
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.
