Tag: The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies

Good Plants: Goldenrod

On By Malcolm R. CampbellIn plants, writing

“Goldenrods take the blame for a lot of allergies, but most of it’s undeserved. There are people allergic to goldenrod and they should not use the plant. However, most of the allergies are caused by ragweed and other similar flowering plants. Goldenrod are pollinated by bees and don’t release pollen into the air like ragweeds.  ” – “The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies.”

Solidago nemoralis, old field goldenrod

Goldenrod has medicinal uses or is eaten in salads, however, you need to make sure you can tell the difference between them and similar plants such as groundsel and ragwort before consuming them. Please don’t take any natural remedies without consulting an herbalist.

According to Healthline, “To reap its benefits, people consume the parts of the plant that grow above ground — particularly the flowers and leaves You can buy goldenrod as a tea or dietary supplement as well. The tea may have a somewhat bitter aftertaste, and some prefer it lightly sweetened.”

Goldenrod adds nitrogen to the soil, so it makes a good plant to place at the edge of your yard, if not in the garden.

Web MD reports that “Goldenrod contains chemicals that might increase urine flow and reduce swelling. It might also kill bacteria and fungi. People use goldenrod for enlarged prostate, kidney stones, urinary tract infections (UTIs), tooth plaque, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses. “

Goldenrod, which blooms in the fall, is a native Florida wildflower whose scientific name (Solidago) means “to make whole.”

—Malcolm

Good Plants: Yarrow

On By Malcolm R. CampbellIn herbs, writing4 Comments

“I always keep yarrow in my medicine bag, as it has many uses. It is also called nosebleed plant, squirrel’s tale, plumajillo, and soldier’s woundwort. I recognize it by its leathery leaf shape, texture, and scent. It’s in the Aster/Daisy family. It is found in temperate zones throughout the world.” – Nicole Apelian in ‘The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies.'”

According to Wikipedia, “Achillea  is a genus of flowering plants in the family Asteraceae, known colloquially as yarrows. The plants typically have frilly leaves. The common name “yarrow” usually refers to A. millefolium. The genus was named after the Greek mythological character Achilles, whose soldiers were said to have used yarrow to treat their wounds; this is reflected by common names such as allheal and bloodwort. The genus is native primarily to Eurasia and North America.”

As always, consult with a doctor and/or an herbalist before using this plant for medical purposes, especially any involving internal use.

Web MD says that “Yarrow contains chemicals that might help to stop stomach cramps and fight infections. People commonly use yarrow for eczema, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), wound healing, and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.”

According to VeryWell Health, “In test tube studies, yarrow’s active ingredients have been shown to work as antibiotics, antioxidants, antiproliferatives (slowing cell growth), and more. These properties make yarrow a supplement of interest for almost everything from multiple sclerosis to cancer.”

Following that introduction, the site lists specific uses, including wounds, skin inflamation, menstrual paint, IBS (irritual bowel syndrome), and ailments for which its use has been studied. Check the site for site effects and precautions.

It can be purchased over the Internet (Caring Sunshine  and others) in addition to herbal shops.

My go-to reference is The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies, however I also like to check the Mayo Clinic and Web MD sites for additional information. You can also find sites/posts by herbalists that focus on one herb or ailment.

–Malcolm

Malcolm writes novels about conjure including “Conjure Woman’s Cat”  set in the Florida Panhandle.