KELP

Habitat:  Kelp is a seaweed harvested from rocky ocean shores around the world.  Many varieties of kelp grow in different parts of the world. It’s technically a sea vegetable. It can grow up to 30 meters and form kelp forests which rise from the ocean floor up to the surface.

Healthy Info:  Kelp is a member of the brown algae family and there are more than 30 different varieties. Bongo kelp is the most common form used in nutritional supplements.  This form of kelp is rich in iodine, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, among many other minerals.  In fact, 70 minerals and trace elements are found in kelp.   One of the most recognized kelp benefits is thyroid regulation. Kelp is rich in iodine, which is important for thyroid function.  Your thyroid absorbs iodine from your blood in order to make and distribute hormones into the body.  Without iodine, your thyroid isn’t able to function properly.  When your body is deficient in iron, your thyroid doesn’t work correctly and your metabolism slows.  You’ll end up gaining weight and putting your health at risk.

Kelp is a natural diuretic, kelp is good for those troubled by water weight. Diuretics clean out the system and assist in shedding water and toxins in the system.

Many people are avoiding sodium in their diets, and for good reason.  Sodium is associated with heart disease and water weight gain. But when salt first became available for seasoning food at the table, manufacturers added iodine as a health benefit.  For years kelp stayed hidden in the closet while people got their necessary iodine from table salt.  But now that salt is being avoided iodine is not as readily available and so kelp is becoming more and more favored as a healthy source of iodine.

Additional kelp benefits:

• Lowering cholesterol
• Help with digestion
• Appetite control
• Boosted immunity
• Increased energy levels

Properties:  anti-bacterial, antifungal, antiviral, antiprotozoal (medicines that treat infections), antihelmintic (expels worms), antineoplastic (inhibiting or preventing the growth or development of malignant cells)

Reference:

• www.herbs,lovetoknow.com/kelp
• www.herbwisdom.com/kelp

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

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Hibiscus

Botanical name:  Malvaceae family

Common name:  Roselle,  African mallow, Florida cranberry, red tea, Jamaica sorrel,  rose of Sharon

Habitat:  Hibiscus belongs to a flowering plant  genus of more than 220 species in the family Malvacea.  Native to warm temperate, subtropical and  tropical regions, it is an annual and sometimes perennial herb or woody-based  sub-shrub; growing 6-8 ft tall.  Leaves  are alternate and simple. Trumpet shaped  flowers are white, pink, red, purple or yellow, with a dark red spot at the  base of each petiole.

Info:  Hibiscus sabdariffa, which means delicate beauty in the language of  botany.  Hibiscus pfaffia originated in  the land of India and Malasia and may have been imported from there into Africa.  Seeds are said to have been brought to America  by African slaves. Hibiscus was grown in Brazil  in the 17^th century and in Jamaica by the early 1700’s.

A sugary herbal tea,  for example the ‘aqua dejamaica’ of Mexico, is a readily available sweetened  concentrate of the herb Hibiscus which is then mixed with additional water for  the final brewing beverage popular in and outside of the many sub-tropical and  tropical countries where it is grown.

By 1960, as wide spread alarm concerning coat-tar food dyes (ie: red dye #2) grew, hibiscus became imported for its safe food-coloring properties.

It is cultivated for bast fiber from the stem of the plant.  The fiber is a substitute for jute in making burlap.

Healthy Info:  A recent study revealed that hibiscus tea contains a number of antioxidants that may help to protect against  cell-damaging free radicals.  This tea may help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol. Hibiscus tea strengthens the  immune system as it is rich in Vitamin C. Hibiscus is a tart, caffeine-free vibrantly colored tea.  This beautiful flowering herb is popular in Europe countries as a heart health tonic.  Hibiscus is a member of the mallow family  with a mellow, sweet taste that is used to enhance flavor and bring harmony to  any tea blend.

Personal Info:  Hibiscus is an ingredient used in our  yummy Christmas and Kandy Kane tea blends (Jyll Renee, Master Herbologist –
jyllrenee@comcast.net and Dr. Deborahe Prock ND – dprock2002@yahoo.com)

Properties:  hypotensive, antispasmodic, anthelmintic  (expels worms) antibacterial, diuretic

References:

• www.herbco.com/p-490-hibiscus-flower
• www.teabenefits.com/hibiscus
• 20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zac pgs. 146

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

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White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Names:  Eastern White Pine, Northern Pine, Northern White Pine, Pin Blanc, Pinus strobus, Soft Pine, Weymouth Pine, Weymouths Keifer, Weymouthtall, White Pine

Appearance:  The White Pine (Pinus strobus) is a coniferous evergreen tree.  It’s trunk is tall and stright and the needles are blue-green.  Young trees are conical shaped, but as the trees age they develop wind-swept, horizontal, upturning branches.  This tree is easily identified by counting the needles in the needle-cluster bundles.  The Eastern White Pine is the only pine native to eastern North America that contains five needles per bundle.

Edible:  The Micmac Indians used the bark to make beverage and the Ojibwa used the young staminate catkins (the slim, cylindrical flower cluster, with inconspicuous or no petals that kind of resembles a “kitten’s tail”) for food and stewed them in with meat. They reportedly have a sweet flavor and do not taste like pine pitch.

A Russian writer says to use needles from 1 year old pine tree. Use 2 oz of washed needles. Grind them. Steep in 2 or 3 cups of poured boiling water. Let cool and steep in cool place for 2 hours. Strain, add honey and lemon to taste and drink. Loses vitamins if stored. Lots of C. 5X that of lemon juice. (Mama’s Home Remedies by Svetlana Konnikova)

-Cindy Moonrose, Eatable Weed Walks & Plant Classes

White Pine (Pinus strobus) has five needles per cluster.

I personally like to use white pine needles to make tea.  The taste is sweet and a bit piney, and tastes very good sweetened with honey. It is a wonderful way to get vitamins A and C, as well as all of the immune-boosting and detoxifying medicinal benefits as used by the Native American Indians.

Becki’s Recipe for Pine Needle Tea (Decoction)

• 1 gallon filtered or spring water
•  3 cups chopped pine needles
•  honey

In a large pot combine water and pine needles. Boil for 10 minutes, simmer until cool. Strain and sweeten to taste with honey. (This is technically a “decoction” because the needles are boiled.)

For convenience, I gather pine needles, chop, and fill a large ziploc bag full of the chopped needles and store them in the freezer. This makes it very easy to access the needles and to measure for making tea. To obtain the most benefit from the needles, it is best to pick the young needles located at the ends of the branches.

Note:  Always make sure you positively identify the pine tree before making pine needle tea!  Some pines are poisonous, such as Yew, Norfolk Pine, and Ponderosa Pine.

White pine needles are great in a vinegar! Take any size jar (with plastic lid) fill it with pine needles and then pour apple cider vinegar over it to fill bottle. Let sit for six weeks and it will be ready to use. I learned this technique from Susun Weed. Here is a link to her page on how to make vinegars: http://www.wisewomantradition.com/empoweringwomen/2009/03/making-springtime-wild-herbal-vinegars.html

-Cathy Webster

Medicinal:  Native Americans utilized White Pine for many medical ailments.  It has been said that Native Americans treated 80% of their medical ailments using pine.   Pine has been shown to bring relief to conditions such as fatigue, heart ailments, heart disease, kidney ailments, sclerosis, and varicose veins.  It has even been shown to improve eyesight!  Cancer patients drink pine needle tea to ease nausea, boost the immune system, and as a strengthening tonic.

Bark of the White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Bark: Native Americans used a decoction take internally for coughs, a poultice of wetted inner bark applied externally to the chest for strong colds,  a poultice of trunk of a young tree applied esternally to cuts and wounds, a decoction of raw bark was taken internally for rheumatism, steam from a decoction of raw bark inhaled for head colds, decoction of bark used externally for skin eruptions and scabs, and raw bark was taken internally for rheumatism, to prevent typhoid, and relieve stomach cramps.

Needles:  Native Americans used a poultice of needles bound externally to heal broken bones, needles were burned in the fall and the smoke used to fill the house and prevent all sickness, decoction of needles used used internally for coughs, colds and rheumatism, an infusion of young trees was taken internally as a blood tonic, decoction of needles taken internally to prevent scurvy.  Pine needles are very high in vitamin C and vitamin A (beta-carotene).  The needles were used to keep the early settlers alive during the first winter by preventing scurvy.

Scientists area currently exploring the medical uses of pine needles. Research is being done using pine needles as an antioxidant, antidepressant, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumor, anti-inflammatory.  Pine is also being studied for boosting the immune system, strengthening the heart, reducing triglycerides, treating Alzheimer’s disease, depression, anxiety, and dementia. A wonderful writeup on this can be found in The Amazing All-Purpose Pine on the website Dave’s Garden.

Branches of the White Pine (Pinus strobus)

Pitch (Sap, Gum): Native Americans used a poultice of pitch applied externally to felons and other similar inflammations, applied externally to boils to draw out pain and inflammation, used internally for coughs, colds and boils, the pitch was chewed for coughs, and boiled gum taken internally for sore throats.

White Pine (Pinus strobus) was extensively used by many Indians. New England tribes boiled the needles in water or maple syrup and drank this tea to prevent scurvy and to relieve coughs and colds. These needles contain five times more vitamin C than an equal amount of lemons, and they are also a rich source of vitamin A. Just chewing the freshly picked needles is very beneficial. The Obibway Indians used the seeds to flavor their cooking. The Iroquois Indians ate the sweet inner bark.

-Native Harvests: American Indian Wild Foods and Recipes by E. Barrie Kavasch

Sources:

• Kavasch, E. (2005). Native Harvests: American Indian Wild Foods and Recipes. Mineola: Dover Publications.
• Moerman, D. (1998). Native American Ethnobotany. Portland: Timber Press.
• Walker, B. (2011). Pine Needle Tea. Dave’s Garden. Extracted December 4, 2011 from http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/3126/

Visit our FREE Online Herbal Materia Medica

Visit our FREE Online Guide to Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants

The LuminEarth Library

Here is a list of some the books used in our research and experimentation. Enjoy!

• A Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants: Eastern and central North America (Peterson Field Guide)
• Great Smoky Mountains Wildflowers: When and Where to Find Them by William Hutson
• Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places by “Wildman” Steve Brill
• Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies: Natural Health, Beauty & Home Care Secrets by Jude C. Williams, M.H.
• Ortho’s  All About Herbs by Maggie Oster
• Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar
• Secrets of the Chinese Herbalists by Richard Lucas
• Sunset Herbs:  An Illustrated Guide by The Editors of Sunset Magazine
• The Forager’s Harvest:  A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting and Preparing Edible Wild Plants by Samuel Thayer
• The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White, M.D.
• The Herbal Home Remedy Book: Simple Recipes for Tinctures, Teas, Salves, Tonics and Syrups by Joyce A. Wardwell
• The Natural Physicians’s Healing Therapies: Proven Remedies Medical Doctors Don’t Know by Mark Stengler, ND
• The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine by Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D.
• The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.
• Wildflowers of the Land Between the Lakes Region, Kentucky and Tennessee

GARLIC (Allum Sativum)

Common and Other Names: Aglio, Ail, Ajo, alho, Allium Sativum, Bawang, Bronx vanilla, Chesnok, Garleag, Garlic, Garlick, Gratiem, Halitosis, Italian Perfume, Katiem, Knoblauch, Knoflook, Lasun, Lehsun,  Ninniku, Poondoo, Poor Man’s Treacle, Sarmisak, Shum, Sir, Suan, Suen Tau, Thum, Toi.

Parts Used:  Bulb

Forms Available:  Capsules, Extracts, Fresh or Dried Cloves, Tablets, Tinctures

Uses:  Garlic is a wonderful immune system stimulant, and the medical community has conducted many studies showing its effectiveness in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing blood pressures, and fighting infections.

Garlic has been found useful in the following areas:

• Antibiotic, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Antiviral
• Atherosclerosis
• Candida Albicans
• Influenza
• Pneumonia
• Tuberculosis
• Typhoid
• Immune System Stimulation
• Cancer Fighting
• Cholesterol and Triglyceride Lowering
• Infections Lowering
• Blood Pressure Lowering
• Heart Attack (Protection From)
• Blood Sugar Level Regulation
• Lung Ailments
• Parasites
• Spasms Calming
• Inflammation Relief

Garlic is best if used raw because cooking breaks down the active ingredient, allicin, in garlic.  Even though cooking destroys all of the antibacterial and antiviral benefits of garlic, some of the cardiovascular benefits remain. If eating raw garlic is too difficult one can try cold-pressed garlic oil capsules, eating garlic with bread, or taking garlic footbaths.

One clove a day is adequate for preventative purposes. Take more for acut ailments such as colds and flus. For external use, always put garlic on a piece of gauze , then lay the gauze next to the skin; otherwise blistering may occur.

-Joyce A. Wardwell, The Herbal Home Remedy Book: Simple Recipes for Tinctures, Teas, Salves, Tonics and Syrups

Odorless garlic, like Kyolic, is benefits mostly the circulatory system only, and has relatively little or no appreciable amount of anti-tumor or immune enhancing properties compared to fresh garlic are standardized garlic oil or garlic powder capsules.

My household uses garlic as an antibiotic and antibiotic as soon as we feel the onset of a cold or flu “bug”. Using 1,000 mg garlic oil capsules, we take 3 capsules 4 times per day (breakfast, lunch, dinner and bedtime). This provides 3,000 mg, 4 times per day. We take it for a full week, but symptoms usually start disappearing the first day and are gone by the third. 
 -Becki Baumgartner, Naturalist/Herbalist for LuminEarth.com

Oil of Garlic has many uses.  It can be used for colds, flus, fevers and invectious diseases by taking one teaspoon of the oil every hour.  Earaches can be treated by inserting a few drops in the ear with a wad of cotton.  Minor skin disorders, aches and sprains can relieved by rubbing the oil on directly on the area affected.

Recipe for Oil of Garlic

Prepare oil of garlic by placing eight ounces of peeled minced garlic in a wide-mouthed jar with enough olive oil to cover. Close tightly and shake a few times a day; allow to stand in a warm place for three days. Press and strain it through an unbleached muslin or cotton cloth and store in a cool place.

-Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D., The Way of Herbs

Garlic Cough Syrup

 This is a remedy for bronchial complaints ranging from bronchitis to asthma. Slice 1 pound of fresh garlic into 1 quart of water. Bruise 1 ounce each of caraway and fennel seeds. Add garlic to water. Boil this mixture until garlic is soft. Let stand 12-14 hours in a very tightly closed container. Measure the mixture at the end of 14 hours and add equal amount of cider vinegar. Bring again to a boil, adding enough sugar to make syrup. For coughing, take 1 teaspoon every morning when necessary.

-Jude C. Williams, M.H., Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies: Natural Health, Beauty, and Home-Care Secrets

Cautions:  Some people experience heartburn and flatulence when using garlic.  In rare cases a person may have an allergic reaction.  Garlic sometimes interacts with anticoagualent drugs.

If you are currently on prescription medication, always check with your doctor before trying a herbal remedy!!  Sometimes the healing effect of an herb may reduce the amount of prescription medication needed, causing an overdose of prescription medication.  Your doctor can either advise you which herbs are safe to use with your prescription and which are not, or monitor you while you are using the herb to make sure everything is in balance.

References:

• Garlic Facts, Selection and Storage. (n.d.) About.com Home Cooking. Extracted October 22, 2011 from http://homecooking.about.com/cs/foodfactsheets/p/garlic_pro.htm.
• Garlic Pills, Oils, etc. (n.d.) Gourmet Garlic Gardens. Extracted October 23, 2011 from http://www.gourmetgarlicgardens.com/pill.htm
• Grieve, M. (n.d.) Garlic. A Modern Herbal. Extracted October 22, 2011 fromhttp://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/g/garlic06.html
• Mowrey, D.(1986.) The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine. New Canaan, CT: Keats Publishing
• Tierra, M. (1998.) The Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books.
• Wardwell, J. (1998.) The Herbal Home Remedy Book. North Adams, MA: Storey
• Williams, J. (1995.) Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies. St. Paul: Llewelyn
• White, M. (2000.) The Herbal Drugstore:The Best Natural Alternatives to Over-The-Counter and Prescription Medicines. New York: Rodale.

The LuminEarth Library

Here is a list of some of the books used in our research and experimentation. Enjoy!

• A Field Guide to Edible Wild Plants: Eastern and central North America (Peterson Field Guide)
• Great Smoky Mountains Wildflowers: When and Where to Find Them by William Hutson
• Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places by “Wildman” Steve Brill
• Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies: Natural Health, Beauty & Home Care Secrets by Jude C. Williams, M.H.
• Ortho’s  All About Herbs by Maggie Oster
• Rosemary Gladstar’s Herbal Recipes for Vibrant Health by Rosemary Gladstar
• Secrets of the Chinese Herbalists by Richard Lucas
• Sunset Herbs:  An Illustrated Guide by The Editors of Sunset Magazine
• The Forager’s Harvest:  A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting and Preparing Edible Wild Plants by Samuel Thayer
• The Herbal Drugstore by Linda B. White, M.D.
• The Herbal Home Remedy Book: Simple Recipes for Tinctures, Teas, Salves, Tonics and Syrups by Joyce A. Wardwell
• The Natural Physicians’s Healing Therapies: Proven Remedies Medical Doctors Don’t Know by Mark Stengler, ND
• The Scientific Validation of Herbal Medicine by Daniel B. Mowrey, Ph.D.
• The Way of Herbs by Michael Tierra, L.Ac., O.M.D.
• Wildflowers of the Land Between the Lakes Region, Kentucky and Tennessee

Botanical name:  piper methipticum

Common name:  Kava, Kava Kava, kawa ‘awa (Hawii), ‘ava (Samoa) yaqona (Fiji) Sakau (Pohnpei)

Habitat:  Historically it has been grown in Hawaii, Federated Stats of Micronesia, Vanuatu, Fiji, the Samoa’s, and Tonga.  It is a cash crop in Vanuatu and Fiji.  The kava plant is a shrub that thrives in shaded, well drained, loose soils.  It  grows naturally where rainfall is 35 degrees Celsius and between 70-80 percent humidity.

Info:  This root from the South Pacific once called “an intoxicating pepper” by explorer Captain Cook because it made his sailors seem like they were drunk.  It’s a tall, leafy shrub and member of the pepper family with a history of use in ceremonies in the South Pacific for heightening the senses of hearing and sight.  Kava kava is a mild sedative that creates a tranquil feeling that reputedly does not lead to any loss in concentration or change in motor reflexes. Kavalcones in the root are credited with its calming effect.  It can ease heart palpitations, relax muscles, and relieve anxiety, tension and emotional stress.  In the South Pacific, the islander chewed the root, and saliva is needed to break down kava kava for best results.

It is used medicinally, ritually, and recreationally by the Polynesian people.  Its use, according to the herbalist Ed Smith, is as a “mild tranquilizer to relax the mind and clarify the thought processes, soothe temperament, and induce a mild euphoria with feelings of peace and harmony.”

Preparation:  (in the Islands) Kava kava is traditionally prepared by chewing of the root by a child or a young virgin female and then the masticated root is spit into a bowl with a small amount of water to make a paste.  This is then mixed with a cold liquid to make a drink. Kava may also be combined with other herbs to enhance the effects.

Properties:  antispasmodic, stimulant, diuretic, antifungal, analgesic, muscle relaxant, anesthetic, anticonvulsant

CAUTION:  HIGH DOSES CAN BE INTOXICATING

Beneficial part: root

Ref:

• The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra L.Ae, O.M.D pg. 147-148
• 20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zac pg 154-155

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

Visit our FREE Online Herbal Materia Medica

Visit our FREE Online Guide to Wild Edible and Medicinal Plants

SARSPARILLA

Common name: Jamaican Sarsparilla, Indian Sarsparilla, Liliaceae, Red-bearded

Latin name: Smilax medica 

Habitat:  Sarsparilla species generally grow in a tropical rainforests and in temperate regions in Australia andAsia, and the root of the hub can be gathered during the year. 

Info:  The climbing herb of Central America has a twining stem with big prickles; large oblong leaves with deep veins; pale flowers; and deep red berries.  But it is the long orange roots of sarsaparilla that first made waves when Spanish traders brought them to Europe in the 16^th century to treat syphilis.  By the 18^th century, sarsaparilla roots were called cure-all.  Sarsparilla is also used to flavor soft drinks.  This use is popular in the Caribbean. 

Blood and Body Cleansing. Sarsparilla is considered one of the best cleansing herbs for the body.  It contains saponins which deep clean the body, removing toxins through the skin (by sweating), through the urine (with its diuretic nature), from the intestines (by stimulating bowel movements), and by vacating mucous from the lungs.

Metabolism. Sarsparilla is a metabolic stimulant, which enhances the utilization of fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and nutrients by the body.

Psoriasis, Shingles. Sarsparilla tea can be used as a deep-cleaning skin wash to treat psoriasis, shingles, and other eruptive skin conditions.

Sexuality in Men and Women. Researchers at Pennsylvania State College found that sarsaparilla contains three hormone-like substances; testosterone, progesterone, and cortin, which affect sexuality.

1. Impotence. The natural testosterone-like substance is sarsaparilla can help to fight impotence in men who are not getting their normal supply of testosterone from the testes.  It can boost the libido and bring new energy to men.
2. Menopause. The natural progesterone-like substance in sarsaparilla can help menopausal women who lack progesterone, the hormone that tones the reproductive system and brings vitality to the libido.  Recent studies suggest that the lack of progesterone at menopause may be more important than estrogen, and many women are using progesterone supplements for renewal energy in menopause.  This is a decision that each woman must make individually, with the guidance of her physician.
3. Adrenal Hormone. The cortin like substance is sarsaparilla is similar to the hormone cortin that is secreted by the adrenal glands.  Without cortin, you can feel nervous, depressed, lacking energy, and your body can be more susceptible to infections.

Venereal Diseases. Indian sarsaparilla (hemidesmus indica) has been found to be effective treatment for venereal diseases.  (This is not the case with other sarsaparilla).

Uses Through the Ages. Sarsaparilla was used by the Cree Indianas to treat syphilis.  It has been used inEurope as an anti-inflammatory for arthritis and rheumatism.  InChina, it is used as a cleanser for urinary tract disorders.  Sarsaparilla used to be one of the flavoring agents in rootbeer.

 *Caution: Sarsparilla is not recommended if you have kidney or liver weakness 

Properties: Alternative, heat cleansing, anti-inflammatory, antipruitic (severe itching), diaphoretic, tonic 

Ref:

The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, L.Ae, O.M.D. pgs. 189

20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zak, pgs. 199-201

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

 ASTRAGULUS (The Protector)

Botanical name:  astragulus membranaceous

Common name:  Huang Qi 

Habitat:  The grassy hills and the thickets along hillsides in areas such as the northwestern region of China the province of Manchuria and the country of Mongolia are places where astragulus grows in the wild.  If cultivated the astragulus herb is grown by sowing the seeds during the spring or autumn.  The herb thrives well in sandy and well drained soil, which is exposed to plenty of sunlight throughout the year.  Autumn is the usually time when roots of four year old plants are harvested. 

Healthy info:  Astragulus is an herb from China and, though not specifically indicated for live and endocrine imbalances, is such a wonderful tonic herb for the entire system.  Astragulus builds and strengthens the entire system and gives energy to the internal organs.  It is used for wasting diseases, for strengthening the immune system, and for improving digestion and the assimilation of nutrients.  A valuable tonic herb, it is especially recommended for those under thirty-five.  Astragulus is pleasant tasting and can be used daily in tea or tincture form.  In China, it is often cooked in soup or served with veggies and grains to improve the health of the entire family. 

The Benefits of Astragulus 

Fluid Balance.  Astragulus balances body fluids, which helps to stabilize every body process from healthy cell production to toxin elimination.

Heart Tonic.  Astragulus strengthens the cardio vascular system, lowers blood pressure, and stimulates circulation to make your hearts job easier.

Immune Energy.  Astragulus invigorates your immune responses.  Its and herb that can help you recover from exhaustion, illness, surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.  It has been shown to revitalize white blood cells, and stimulate the production of natural antibodies and natural interferon which your body used to fight diseases.  It helps to restore adrenal function, and provide antiviral resistance.  If you get fatigued easily, catch every cold or flu that comes around, and struggle with infections that recur, astragulus is the tea to use to fortify your immunity.  A stronger immunity is your best weapon against premature aging and disease.

Protective Energy.  In Chinese medicine, astragulus is used to strengthen a unique form of energy that is called “protective energy,” which helps us adapt to external factors such as bad weather changes, and defends us against germs or microorganisms in the environment.  They locate this energy beneath the surface of the skin and along the outside of the body the first line of defense against harmful influences.

Special Feature:  Facilitator

Astragulus works like a catalyst to enhance the healing properties of other herbs.  When you combine one tea bag of astragulus with one tea bag of your “special needs” herb tea, you get a tonic for energy and renewal.  Many herbalists recommend astragulus and dong quai to balance hormonal chemistry in both women and men. 

Beneficial part: root

Astragulus and Orange Tea

Astragulus is sweet-natural and plan tasting. But when you add a spritz of orange, you can get a delightful flavor that’s like an English breakfast tea.

YUM!

Ref:

• 20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zak pg. 77-78
• Herbal Healing for Women, Rosemary Gladstar pg 79

 Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

Pokeweed Berries

POKEWEED (Phytolacca Americana)

Other Names: American Nightshade, Cancer Root, Inkberry, Pigeon Berry, Poke, Poke Salad, Poke Sallet, Pokeberry, Pokeroot, Pokeweed, Skoke, Virginia Poke

Visit Our FREE Online Guide to Wild Edible & Medicinal Plants

Pokeweed is a robust perennial potherb that usually grows 4 to 12 feet tall, then dies back to the root during the winter. It is native to eastern North America but has been grown all over the world. Pookweed is an aggressive plant and is commonly found in disturbed areas all over North America. The plant is tinged with purple-red and has oval, untoothed, stalked, alternate emerald-green colored leaves with a width between 2 to 5 inches and length approximately 8 to 12 inches long. The plant flowers are symmetrical white with green centers eventually turning into dark purple, seed filled berries approximately 1/3 inch in diameter.

My interest in pokeweed began playing as young child in the countryside of rural Pennsylvania. My brotherand I would come home with the purple berries smeared all over our faces, arms and legs. “DON’T EAT those berries!” my mom would warn, “They’re POISONOUS!” I’m sure the same scenario occurred for many others in my age group and locale. This was probably the main reason I took me so long to get around to trying this delicious wild edible. Now I am glad that I did!

Pokeweed is one of the most widely used edible plants in North America, even though it has poisonous parts. Because the toxins can kill, this is not a plant for unsupervised beginners to eat. Study it over several seasons, build experiences with other wild foods, and work with an experienced forager before attempting to survive a pokeweed dinner.

-Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants by “Wildman” Steve Brill

CULINARY USE OF POKEWEED

CULINARY RECIPES USING POKEWEED LEAVES

Pokeweed Basic Preparation 

Boil a large and a medium-sized pot of water to a rolling boil. Boil the pokeweed in the medium-sized pot for 1 minute. Drain, using a colander. Add more boiling water from the large pot, which is your reservoir, and boil another minute. Drain, add more boiling water from the large pot again, and boil another 18 minutes. Drain again. Press the greens against the colander with a slotted spoon to remove excess water. Season to taste and serve. Good with vinegar, pepper, oil, lemon sauce, and bits of smoke-flavored foods.

–Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants by “Wildman” Steve Brill

Poke Salad

1 to 2 lbs. Poke Salad (Poke Leaves)
6 to 8 slices bacon
1 lg. onion
2 eggs
 

Pick and wash poke salad, bring to a rapid boil for 20 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold tepid water. Bring to a rapid boil, starting with cold water, for a second boil for 20 minutes. Again drain and rinse with cold tepid water. Now for the third time, starting over cold tepid water bring to a rapid boil for 20 more minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Let drain completely.

Meantime fry bacon and save drippings; set aside. Clean and cut onion in quarters. Take drained poke salad. Cook in fry pan that you fried your bacon. Add 1/4 cup of drippings and shortening from bacon. Add onion, 1/4 cup of water, salt to taste. Let steam fry until onions are sauteed, about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve and garnish with hard-boiled egg and bacon.

-Cooks.com “Poke Salad”

MEDICINAL USE OF POKEWEED

Pokeweed Plant With Blossoms

The roots and berries of the Pokeweed plant are poisonous to eat, but are often used medicinally.  Poke root has been used as an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antiviral.  It affects the glands, lungs, spleen and kidneys and has been used to treat swollen and/or inflamed glands, breast cysts, and tumors.  In folk medicine it is used for its anti-inflammatory properties to ease arthritis and rheumatism.

In his book “The Way of Herbs”, Michael Tierra cites pokeroot as “one of the two or three most important native herbs for treating cancer” and indicates that it should be used with “a broad-spectrum blood-purifying formula, such as the Hoxsey formula” with dosage being “no more than 5-10 drops every 3 hours”.

Information on the Hoxsey Formula and Harry Hoxsey can be found in the book Cancer Salves: A Botanical Approach to Treatment by Dr. Ingrid Naiman .

Click here to watch Hoxsey: How Healing Becomes a Crime (Free)

Tierra also recommends making a syrup of fresh pokeroot, because a syrup lessens gastrointestinal irritation.  To make the syrup add fresh green pokeroot tincture to a base of syrup or honey.  (Click Here to Learn How to Make Tinctures.)  Tierra recommends using 5-10 drops every three hours.

Some research has shown that a protein contained in pokeweed, called pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP), has anti-tumor effects in mice and laboratory studies. In test tube studies, PAP has also shown action against viruses such as herpes and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).

Research has shown that pokeweed contains a compound that appears to enhance the immune system and has some anti-cancer effects in animals. According to one animal study, pokeweed antiviral protein (PAP), a protein contained in the plant, demonstrated anti-cancer effects in rodents. Another study found that PAP, when combined with an immunotherapy drug called TP-3, holds promise as a potential treatment for advanced osteosarcomas and some soft tissue sarcomas. Laboratory studies have suggested that certain formulations of PAP may be turn out to be useful against cancer cells that depend on hormones for their growth, such as cells from prostate, breast, and ovarian cancer.

PAP also acts against some viruses such as herpes and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and it is being studied as a possible antiviral. In laboratory studies, it seemed to help protect cells against HIV, and researchers are studying whether it might help protect people from HIV infection. However, even though animal and laboratory studies may show a certain compound looks promising, studies in people are necessary to find out whether the results hold true for humans.

-Cancer.org

In her book “Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies”,  Jude Todd stresses that pokeweed should be used with caution in any home remedy.  “I call it the chemotherapy of herbs, as it is it is an extremely strong purge.  It duplicates the effects of cortisone, which stimulates the entire glandular system.”  She also indicates that it should be used “only when drastic measures are called for and when all other methods have failed or not suitable.”  Ms. T0dd also explains that pokeweed is a violent laxative and diuretic that cleans the entire system.

Adult Pokeweed with Unripe and Ripe Berries

HERBAL RECIPES USING POKE ROOT

Poke Root Tea

1 tsp powdered or cut dried pokeroot
1 cup water
Simmer pokeroot herb in water.

Recipe courtesy of “The Way of Herbs” by Michael Tierra.  Tierra recommends taking one mouthful several times throughout the day.

Poke Root Tincture

Click Here to Learn How to Make and Herbal Tinctures

Formula for Glandular System, Arthritic, and Rheumatic Complaints

Dried Poke Root
Sasparilla Root
Dandelion Root
Burdock Root
Spikenard
Ginger
Licorice Root (1/2 part of this)

Use equal parts to make a standard decoction.

Recipe courtesy of “The Way of Herbs” by Michael Tierra.   Tierra recommends taking two or three cups daily.

My Personal Use of Pokeweed

We eat pokeweed as a boiled green in our house.  I use the leaves only from all sized plants, making sure there is no red or purple in the vein of the leaves.  I do not use the stems, flowers, root, or berries.  To prepare the greens, I boil them three times discarding the water each time.  My family and I think pokeweed is delicious.  It is very tender and mild, it reminds me of asparagus.  We eat it as Poke Salad using the recipe above and in omelettes and quiche.

I have a great poke story! When my hubby had cancer last year..all of a sudden a poke plant started growing right outside my front door. I have lived here 23 years and never had one there before. Poke berries are a natural remedy to cancer. Don’t tell me nature doesn’t know our needs!

 -Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist

Click Here to Visit Our FREE Online Guide to Wild Edible & Medicinal Plants

Click Here to Visit Our FREE Online Herbal Materia Medica

Sources:

Brill, S., & Dean, E. (2002). Identifying and Harvesting Edible and Medicinal Plants in Wild (and Not So Wild) Places. New York: HarperResource.

Cancer.org. (n.d.). Pokeweed. Retrieved July 26, 2011, from Cancer.org: http://www.cancer.org/Treatment/TreatmentsandSideEffects/ComplementaryandAlternativeMedicine/HerbsVitaminsandMinerals/pokeweed

Cooks.com. (n.d.). Poke Salad. Retrieved July 20, 2011, from Cooks.com: http://www.cooks.com/rec/view/0,1650,150172-232192,00.html

Tierra, M. (1998). The Way of Herbs. New York: Pocket Books.

Todd, J. (1995). Jude’s Herbal Home Remedies. St. Paul: Llewellyn Publications.

Butchers Broom

Common name:  Jews Myrtle, Knee Holly, Knee Holm, Pettigree, Sweet Brown

Botanical name:  Ruscus aculeatus 

Habitat:  Butchers broom is a small-leaved bush cultivated in the Mediterranean and Europe.  It is part of the lilly family, and is quite similar to your everyday asparagus plant.  Both the root and stem of the plant are used in herbal preparations.  Butchers broom is all branches and no leaves.  It produces small greenish flowers and red berries.  In England, its branches were tied in bundles to use for brooms to clean cutting blocks in the butcher shops. 

Healthy Info:  Butchers broom has been used to improve circulation, relieve constipation, and to relieve water retention discomfort.  It is reported that butchers broom can tighten the circulatory systems, veins and strengthen the capillary walls. It is rich in flavonoids such as rutin and enhances blood flow to the brain, legs and hands.

Butchers broom has been reported to be effective in treating a variety of conditions including: 

• Energizer. Butchers broom is an invigorating, anti-aging tea that renews energy by renewing circulation, which provides oxygen to the body and brain.  It also strengthens muscles and blood vessels, and it “moves” blood to relieve stagnation. 
• Cleanser. Butchers broom is one of the best internal cleansers to remove toxins and renew energy.  Butchers broom tea can make a sweep through your kidneys and liver (it’s good for the prostate too). 
• Swollen Legs and Ankles. Butchers broom boosts circulation especially in the legs.  It is used to prevent fluid retention in the legs and ankles, often called edema. 
• Uses Through the Ages. Studies in France showed that butchers broom significantly reduced the incident of clotting after surgery. 

This herb may also lessen cramps, swelling, and other symptoms associated with chronic venous insufficiency, a condition that occurs when valves in the veins that carry blood back to the heart are weak or damaged.  This insufficiency allows blood to collect in the veins, which may cause varicose veins, spider veins, sores and even blood clots in the legs. 

*properties: diuretic, diaphoretic, aperients (laxative)

*side effects: no significant side effects have been found for butcher’s broom.  However, nausea and queasiness may result in rare cases.  Butchers broom is not recommended for those with high blood pressure

Ref:

• The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, L.Ae, O. M.D. page 106
• 20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zak page 91
• www.nutrasanus.com/butchersbroom 7/24/2011

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

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Saw Palmetto Berries (Libido booster)

Botanical name:  Serenoa repens

Common name:  Sabal

Habitat:  A native of eastern North American, saw palmetto has long slender leaves that form a fan-shaped design on the stem.  It’s berries are black with pale brown pulp.

Info:  Saw Palmetto (sometimes referred to as Sabal in Europe) has many medicinal benefits.

• Hormone Balance. Glands.  Saw Palmetto cleanses and strengthens glandular tissues, and helps to regulate hormone balance in both sexes.
• Nervous System.  Soothing to the nervous system, saw palmetto helps to relieve tension and anxiety.
• Prostate. Testes. Impotence.  Saw Palmetto has a tonic effect on the male libido.  It cleanses and nourishes male reproductive organs to prevent atrophy of the testes.  It is also used to fight prostate enlargement.  In one study of saw palmetto, nightly urinations were reduced almost fifty percent and flow rates were increased by fifty percent.
• Under-nourished. Fatigued.  Saw Palmetto improves digestion and vitality, and has a long history of use as a treatment for diseases of malnourishment.
• Urinary Tract Infections. Incontinence.  Saw Palmetto’s saponin cleansers are especially good for the urinary tract to combat infections.  It has been used to fight incontinence.
• Women’s Life Cycles.  A tea for the female libido, saw palmetto helps to regulate periods, tones the reproductive tract, eases cramps and pain.
• Special Features.  Fat Fighter!  Saw Palmetto contains the enzyme lipase that breaks down fats.  It can be helpful in the treatment of obesity and overweight.
• Beneficial Part:  Berries

 Personal info:  We make saw palmetto in capsule form, suggested use: 2 capsules daily for prostate health.

Properties:  antiseptic, decongestant, diuretic, sedative, roborant (restoring vigor or strength), endocrine and anabolic agent, aphrodisiac

*not to be used during pregnancy

Ref:

• Going Natural with Herbs, Marueen Kernion, Ph.D pg. 121-122
• 20,000 Secrets of Tea, Victoria Zak pg. 201-202
• The Way of Herbs, Michael Tierra, L.Ae, O.M.D. pg. 191

Submitted by: Jyll Renee’, Master Herbologist (Click here to learn more about Jyll Renee.)

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