130 MEDICINAL PLANT
MONOGRAPHS
Of The Northwest
By
Darcy J. Williamson
PUBLISHED BY:
Darcy Williamson on Smashwords
Copyright © 2010 by Darcy Williamson
All rights reserved. Without limiting the rights under copyright reserved above, no part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in or introduced into a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form, or by any means (electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise) without the prior written permission of both the copyright owner and the above publisher of this book.
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ISBN 978-0-9843136-5-5
— First eBook Edition —
From The Forest
P.O. Box 4190
McCall, Idaho 83638
About the Author
Darcy Williamson is a practicing herbalist, instructor, public speaker and author from central Idaho. Wild medicinal plants have been a passion of hers for as long as she can remember. For the past 35 years she has taught hands-on classes on locating, identifying, preparing and using medicinal herbs growing in the Rocky Mountains. She has found her occupation as an herbalist ~ the go-between for the medicinal herbs and those who need their healing powers ~ to be a glorious and humbling occupation. This personal collection of Darcy’s monographs covers 130 of the plants she has taught to apprentice groups and used in her practice as an herbalist.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Alder (Alnus sp. including A. glutinosa, A. rubra)
Alumroot (Heuchera rubescens)
Amaranth (Amaranthus hypochondriacus, A. cruentus, A. retroflexus)
Angelica (Angelica sp.)
Arnica (Arnica cordifolia, Arnica sp.)
Arrowleaf Balsamroot (Balsamorhiza sagittata)
Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis)
Astragalus (Astragalus canadensis)
Avens, Large leaved (Geum macrophyllum)
Ballhead Waterleaf (Hydrophyllum capitatum)
Baneberry (Actaea rubra)
Bindweed (Convolvulus arvensis)
Birch (Betula sp. (B. occidentalis, B. papyrifera, B. glandulosa))
Bistort, American (Polygonum bistortoides)
Bitterbrush (Purshia tridentata)
Bitter Cherry (Prunus emarginated)
Bittersweet (Solanum dulcamara)
Blackberry (Rubus villosus)
Black Locust (Robinia pseudoacacia)
Blackwalnut (Julans nigra)
Blue Gentian (Gentiana calycosa)
Brown’s Peony (Paeonia brownii)
Bud Sagewort (Artemisia spinescens)
Bugleweed (Lycopus americanus)
Buffalo Berry (Shepherdia canadensis)
Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis)
Burdock (Arctium lappa)
Cascara Sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana)
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Chaga (Inonotus obliquus)
Chicory (Cichorium intybus)
Chokecherry (Prunus virginiana)
Cinquefoil (Potentilla sp.)
Cleavers (Galium aparine)
Coralroot, Spotted (Corallorhiza maculata)
Cottonwood (Populus balsamiferous)
Cow Parsnip (Heracleum maximum)
Cranesbill (Geranium viscosissimum, G. maculatum)
Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale)
Desert Buckwheat (Eriogonum sp.)
Dutchman’s Britches (Dicentra cucullaria)
Elder (Sambucus cerulea, S. canadensis)
Elephant Head Betony (Pedicularis groenlandica)
Evening Primrose (Oenothera biennis, O. hookeri)
False Helebore (Veratrum californium)
Fir (Abies sp.)
Fireweed (Epilobium angustifolium)
Golden Current (Ribes aureum)
Goldenrod (Solidago canadensis)
Goldthread (Coptis trifolia, C. laciniata)
Gumweed (Grindelia sp.)
Hawthorn (Crataegus sp.)
Henbane (Hyoscyamus niger)
Horehound (Marrubium vulgare)
Horsehair Lichen (Bryoria fremontii)
Horsetail (Equisetum arvense)
Hound’s Tongue (Cynoglossum officinalis)
Huckleberry (Vaccinium sp.)
Idaho Syringa (Philadelphus lewisii)
Indian Paintbrush (Castilleja coccinea)
Indian Pipe (Monotropa uniform)
Jack-O’-Lantern Mushroom (Omphalotus illudens)
Jacob’s Ladder (Polemonium pulcherrimum; P. viscosum)
Juniper (Juniperus communis, Juniperus sp.)
Labrador Tea (Ledum glandulous)
Larkspur (Delphinium nuttallianum)
Licorice, American (Glycyrrhiza lepidota)
Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe (Arceuthobium americanum)
Lodgepole Pine (Pinus contorta)
Lomatium (Lomatium dissectum)
Maiden Hair Fern (Adiantum pedatum)
Meadow Rue (Thalictrum occidentale)
Mountain Ash (Sorbus scopulina)
Mountain Mahogany (Cercocarpus montanus)
Mountain Mist (Holodiscus discolor)
Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Ninebark (Physocarpus malvaceus)
Oregon Grape (Mahonia repens)
Oxeye Daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum)
Pearly Everlasting (Anaphalis margaritacea)
Pennyroyal, American (Monardella odoratissima)
Penstemon (Penstemon sp.)
Pipsissewa (Chimaphila umbellate)
Ponderosa Pine (Pinus ponderosa)
Prairie Smoke (Geum Triflorum)
Puccoon (Lithospermum ruderale)
Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)
Pyrola (Pyrola asarifolia)
Rabbitbrush (Chrysothamnus nauseosus)
Red Belted Polypore (Fomitopsis pinicola)
Red Clover (Trifolium pratense)
Red Osier Dogwood (Cornus stolonifera)
Red Root (Ceanothus velutinus)
Rocky Mountain Maple (Acer glabrum)
Saint John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
Salad Burnet (Sanguisorba minor)
Scarlet Gilia (Ipomopsis aggregata)
Self-Heal (Prunella vulgaris)
Serviceberry (Amelanchier utahensis)
Sheep Sorrel (Rumex acetosella)
Skullcap (Scutellaria galericulata, S. resinosa)
Snowberry (Symphoricarpos albus)
Soapwort (Saponaria officinalis)
Spreading Dogbane (Apocynum androsaemifolium)
Steeplebush (Western Spirea) (Spiraea douglasii)
Stinging Nettle (Urtica sp.)
Sumac (Rhus glabra)
Sweet Cicely (Osmorhiza Occidentalis)
Tall Sagebrush (Artemisia tridentate)
Tamarack (Larix occidentalis)
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)
Teasel (Dipsacus fullonum)
Thimbleberry (Rubus parviflorus)
Turkey Tail (Trametes versicolor)
Usnea (Usnea sp.)
Uva Ursi (Arctostaphylos uva-ursi)
Valerian (Valeriana spp.)
Virgin’s Bower (Clematis columbiana)
Watercress (Nasturtium officinale)
Western Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris)
Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata)
Western Yew (Taxus brevifolia)
White Virgin’s Bower (Clematis ligusticifolia)
Wild Ginger (Asarum caudatum)
Wild Violet (Viola sp.)
Willow (Salix sp.)
Wolf Lichen (Letharia vulpine)
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium)
Yarrow (Achillea sp.)
Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)
Acute Inflammatory Diseases: Coral Root
Adaptogen: Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Burdock, Licorice, Red Belted Polypore, Stinging Nettle, Turkey Tail, Wild Ginger
Addison’s Disease: Licorice
Adrenal aid: Penstemon, Self-Heal
Alcoholism: Angelica, Goldthread, Skullcap, Spreading Dogbane
Allergies: Alder, Goldenrod, Gumweed, Stinging Nettle
Alternative: Burdock
Alzheimer’s Disease: Astragalus
Amoeba infestation: Alder, Oregon Grape, Yarrow
Analgesic: Birch, Bittersweet, Blue Gentian, Cottonwood, Elephant Head Betony, Labrador Tea, Meadow Rue, Mullein, Ponderosa Pine, Red Belted Polypore, Red Osier Dogwood, Saint John’s Wort, Skullcap, Steeplebush, Teasel, Valerian, Watercress, White Virgin’s Bower, Wild Ginger, Willow, Wormwood, Yarrow
Angina Pectoris: Hawthorn
Anthelmintic: Bindweed, Bitterbrush, Black Walnut, Western Mugwort, Tamarack, Wormwood
Anthrax, Cutaneous: Larkspur
Antibacterial: Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Blue Gentian, Dandelion, Goldthread, Self-Heal, Western Mugwort, Wild Ginger
Antibiotic: Alder, Goldthread, Oregon Grape, Pipsissewa, Pyrola, Saint John’s Wort, Tamarack, Usnea
Antidepressant: Saint John’s Wort, Wormwood
Antidiarrheal: (See Diarrhea)
Antidote: Rocky Mountain Maple
Antiemetic: Mountain Ash
Antifungal: Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Juniper, Oxeye Daisy, Purslane, Saint John’s Wort, Sweet Cicely, Usnea, Western Yew, Wild Ginger
Anti-inflammatory: Amaranth, Angelica, Arnica, Baneberry, Brown’s Peony, Evening Primrose, Pearly Everlasting, Tansy
Anti-Microbial: Mountain Ash, Usnea
Antioxidant: Chaga, Huckleberry
Antiperiodic: Indian Pipe, Wild Ginger
Antirheumatic: (See Rheumatism)
Antiseptic: Bistort, Horehound, Horsehair Lichen, Pearly Everlasting, Ponderosa Pine, Sumac, Tall Sagebrush, Tamarack, Western Mugwort, Willow, Wormwood
Antispasmodic: Black Locust, Brown’s Peony, Henbane, Pyrola
Antitumor: Chaga, Cleavers, Red Belted Polypore, Red Clover, Turkey Tail
Antiviral: Elder, Lomatium, Western Red Cedar, Wild Ginger
Appetite Stimulant: Astragalus, Sweet Cicely, Teasel
Ashtma: Gumweed, Lomatium, Mullein, Red Osier Dogwood
Arthritis: Asparagus, Gumweed, Ninebark, Virgin’s Bower, Wild Violet
Astringent: Bistort, Cranesbill, Prairie Smoke, Self-Heal, Watercress, Willow
Beverage: Catnip, Fireweed, Goldenrod, Horehound, Labrador Tea, Mullein, Red Clover, Stinging Nettle
Bitters: Bitterbrush, Blue Gentian
Bladder: Mullein
Blood Pressure: Oregon Grape, Spreading Dogbane, Valerian, Yarrow
Blood Tonic: Astragalus, Burdock, Scarlet Gilia, Yellow Dock
Burns: Brown’s Peony, Bunchberry, Cottonwood, Hound’s Tongue, Mountain Mahogany, Saint John’s Wort, Stinging Nettle
Bruises: Arnica, Baneberry, Bittersweet, Bud Sagewort, Cottonwood, Evening Primrose, Ponderosa, Pyrola, Saint John’s Wort, Self-Heal, Tamarack, White Virgin’s Bower, Wormwood, Yellow Dock
Cancer aid: Asparagus, Astragalus, Birch, Burdock, Chaga, Cleavers, Dandelion, Evening Primrose, False Hellebore, Jack-O’-Lantern Mushroom, Larkspur, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Puccoon, Purslane, Red Belted Polypore, Red Clover, Red Root, Self-Heal, Serviceberry, Sheep Sorrel, Thimbleberry, Watercress, Western Yew, Wild Ginger, Wild Violet
Cathartic: Bitterbrush, Elder, Scarlet Gilia
Childbirth: Juniper
Cholera: Larkspur
Circulatory aid: Hawthorn, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe
Cold Remedy: Angelica, Astragalus, Bitterbrush, Bitter Cherry, Bud Sagewort, Bunchberry, Catnip, Coral Root, Cottonwood, Elder, Fir, Gumweed, Horehound, Jacob’s Ladder, Juniper, Labrador Tea, Licorice, Lodgepole Pine, Lomatium, Meadow Rue, Mountain Ash, Mountain Mahogany, Mountain Mist, Mullein, Oxeye Daisy, Pearly Everlasting, American Pennyroyal, Pipsissewa, Ponderosa Pine, Rabbitbrush, Saint John’s Wort, Snowberry, Steeplebush, Sumac, Sweet Cicely, Thimbleberry, Western Red Cedar, White Virgin’s Bower, Wild Ginger, Wild Violet, Yarrow
Congestive Heart Failure: Hawthorn, Pipsissewa
Constipation: Cascara Sagrada, Rocky Mountain Maple, Spreading Dogbane
Convalescence Tonic: Asparagus, Red Clover
Cosmetic aid: Black Locust, Buffalo Berry, Chaga, Cleavers, Cranesbill, Elder, Oxeye Daisy, Red Root, Stinging Nettle, Tansy, Virgin’s Bower, Watercress, Yarrow
Cough Aid: Bitterbrush, Chokecherry, Cinquefoil, Elephant Head Betony, Evening Primrose, Gumweed, Horehound, Hound’s Tongue, Licorice, Lodgepole Pine, Rabbitbrush, Red Clover, Soapwort, Usnea, Wild Violet
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Licorice, Lomatium
Dermatological aid: Alder, Amaranth, Asparagus, Ballhead Waterleaf, Birch, Bistort, Bitterbrush, Bitter Cherry, Bittersweet , Blackberry, Black Locust, Black Walnut, Brown’s Peony, Bud Sagewort, Buffalo Berry, Burdock, Cleavers, Coral Root, Cottonwood, Cow Parsnip, Dandelion, Dutchman’s Britches, Elder, Evening Primrose, False Hellebore, Fir, Goldthread, Gumweed, Horsetail, Hound’s Tongue, Indian Paintbrush, Jacob’s Ladder, Juniper, Labrador Tea, Lodgepole Pine, Mullein, Oregon Grape, Pearly Everlasting, American Pennyroyal, Penstemon, Ponderosa Pine, Purslane, Saint John’s Wort, Scarlet Gilia, Self-Heal, Serviceberry, Sheep Sorrel, Skullcap, Snowberry, Soapwort, Sumac, Tamarack, Tansy, Teasel, Thimbleberry, Watercress, Western Red Cedar, Western Yew, White Virgin’s Bower, Wild Violet, Willow, Wormwood, Yellow Dock
Detoxifying: Burdock, Oregon Grape
Diabetes: Astragalus, Bugleweed, Evening Primrose, Huckleberry, Stinging Nettles, Sumac, Western Yew
Diaphoretic: Alder, Spotted Coral Root
Diarrhea: Alder, Alumroot, Amaranth, Ballhead Waterleaf, Bistort, Blackberry, Black Walnut, Cranesbill, Golden Current, Hound’s Tongue, Huckleberry, Jacob’s Ladder, Mountain Ash, Mountain Mist, Pearly Everlasting, Prairie Smoke, Puccoon, Rabbitbrush, Red Belted Polypore, Red Osier Dogwood, Saint John’s Wort, Salad Burnet, Serviceberry, Steeplebush, Sumac, Thimbleberry
Digestive aid: Angelica, Bitterbrush, Blue Gentian, Chicory, Dandelion, Labrador Tea, Mountain Mahogany, Steeplebush, Tamarack
Diuretic: Asparagus, Bittersweet, Black Locust, Burdock, Dandelion, Elder, Juniper, Pipsissewa, Sheep Sorrel, Spreading Dogbane, Sweet Cicely, Tamarack, Uva Ursi, Watercress, Wild Violet, Willow
Disinfectant: Brown’s Peony, Lomatium, Mountain Mist
Eating Disorders: Blue Gentian
E-Coli: Oregon Grape
Edema: Bittersweet, Bud Sagewort, Pipsissewa
Electrical shock: Black Walnut
Emetic: Alder, Black Locust, Elder, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Mountain Mist, Ninebark, Penstemon, Spreading Dogbane, Wild Violet
Enema: Amaranth
Epilepsy: Indian Pipe
Ezcema: Alder, Birch, Bitter Cherry, Bittersweet, Black Walnut, Burdock, Cottonwood, Elder, Primrose, Fir, Idaho Syringa, Jacob’s Ladder, Juniper, Oregon Grape, Pearly Everlasting, Penstemon, Ponderosa, Red Clover, Saint John’s Wort, Salad Burnet, Sheep Sorrel, Soapwort, Stinging Nettle, Tamarack, Watercress, Western Red Cedar, Wolf Lichen, Yellow Dock.
Eye aid: Buffalo Berry, Bunchberry, Catnip, Chokecherry, Cinquefoil, Cranesbill, Desert Buckwheat, Elder, Goldthread, Henbane, Huckleberry, Indian Pipe, Meadow Rue, Mountain Ash, Oregon Grape, Pipsissewa, Ponderosa Pine, Pyrola, Self-Heal, Serviceberry, Snowberry, Sweet Cicely, Teasel
Fevers: Avens, Bunchberry, Catnip, Coral Root, Elder, Goldthread, Idaho Syringa, Indian Pipe, Jacob’s Ladder, Mountain Ash, American Pennyroyal, Ponderosa Pine, Red Belted Polypore, Salad Burnet, Sheep Sorrel, Steeplebush, Sumac, Tansy, Thimbleberry, Wild Ginger, Willow, Wormwood, Yarrow
Flu: Amaranth, Bud Sagewort, Chaga, Elder, Fir, Lomatium, Serviceberry
Food Poisoning: Western Red Cedar
Gall Bladder: Golden Current, Mountain Ash, Soapwort
Gallstones: Soapwort
Gast-intestinal aid: Bindweed, Burdock, Catnip, Chokecherry, Cinquefoil, Cranesbill, Elder, Mountain Mist, Mullein, American Pennyroyal, Rabbitbrush, Red Root, Usnea, Valerian, Yellow Dock
Gout: Sweet Cicely, Tansy
Graves’ Disease: Puccoon
Guardia: Black Walnut, Teasel, Yarrow
Gynecological aid: Alder, Amaranth, Angelica, Arnica, Asparagus, Astragalus, Avens, Baneberry, Bitterbrush, Blackberry, Black Walnut, Brown’s Peony, Bugleweed, Chicory, Cinquefoil, Coral Root, Cow Parsnip, Desert Buckwheat, Elder, Evening Primrose, Gumweed, Horsetail, Idaho Syringa, Indian Paintbrush, Indian Pipe, Juniper, Licorice, Mountain Mist, Oxeye Daisy, American Pennyroyal, Prairie Smoke, Puccoon, Red Clover, Red Osier Dogwood, Red Root, Saint John’s Wort, Salad Burnet, Self-Heal, Serviceberry, Steeplebush, Stinging Nettles, Sumac, Tamarack, Tansy, Thimbleberry, Usnea, Uva Ursi, Valerian, Watercress, White Virgin’s Bower, Wild Ginger, Wormwood, Yarrow
Hair aid: Buffalo Berry, Horsetail, Ponderosa Pine, Spreading Dogbane, Virgin’s Bower
Heart aid: Asparagus, Astragalus, Bitter Cherry, Black Walnut, Bugleweed, Buffalo Berry, Desert Buckwheat, Evening Primrose, False Hellebore, Gumweed, Hawthorn, Horehound, Meadow Rue, Mountain Ash, Pipsissewa, Purslane, Pyrola, Self-Heal
Hemorrhage (internal): Alder, Alumroot, Amaranth, Cranesbill, Horsetail, Huckleberry, Indian Paintbrush, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Mountain Ash, Salad Burnet, Stinging Nettles, Yarrow
Hemorrhoids: Catnip, Cinquefoil, Cranesbill, Henbane, Hound’s Tongue, Mountain Mahogany, Uva Ursi
Hepatic: Cascara sagrada, Red Root
Hepatitis: Dandelion, Red Root, Self Heal, Turkey Tail, Western Mugwort, Wormwood, Yellow Dock
Hermostat: Bud Sagewort, Bugleweed
Herpes Lesions: Cascara sagrada, Juniper, Sumac
HIV: Saint John’s Wort, Turkey Tail
Hypertension: Hawthorn
Hypnotic: Henbane
IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome): Bistort, Prairie Smoke
Immune Stimulant: Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Astragalus, Brown’s Peony, Lomatium, Red Clover, Turkey Tail, Western Red Cedar, Western Yew
Incontinence: Mullein
Infections: Gumweed
Inflammation of the Upper Intestine: Alder
Insect or Spider Bites: Bistort, Yarrow
Insecticide: False Hellebore, Larkspur, Oxeye Daisy
Insect Repellent: Buffalo Berry, Juniper, Labrador Tea, American Pennyroyal, Tansy, Western Red Cedar
Internal Injuries: Hound’s Tongue
Kidney aid: Asparagus, Birch, Bunchberry, Burdock, Chicory, Chokecherry, Dandelion, Goldenrod, Indian Paintbrush, Maiden Hair Fern, Pipsissewa, Scarlet Gilia, Steeplebush, Stinging Nettle, Tansy, Thimbleberry, Uva Ursi, Watercress, Western Red Cedar
Laxitive: Bindweed, Bitterbrush, Bitter Cherry, Buffalo Berry, Cascara Sagrada, Fir, Idaho Syringa, Licorice, Ninebark, Oregon Grape, Red Osier Dogwood, Yellow Dock
Liver Tonic: Avens, Bitterbrush, Bittersweet, Blue Gentian, Buffalo Berry, Burdock, Cascara sagrada, Chicory, Dandelion, Evening Primrose, Licorice, Maiden Hair Fern, Oregon Grape, Pipsissewa, Red Belted Polypore, Red Osier Dogwood, Red Root, Scarlet Gilia, Self-Heal, Spreading Dogbane, Teasel, Turkey Tail, Watercress, Western Mugwort, Wormwood, Yellow Dock
Lung aid: Astragalus, Coral Root, Hound’s Tongue, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Maiden Hair Fern, Ponderosa Pine, Purslane, Snowberry, Usnea, Watercress, Western Yew
Lyme’s Disease: Labrador Tea, Teasel
Lymphatic aid: Cleavers, Red Root, Wild Violet
Male Reproductive System: Astragalus, Evening Primrose
Menopause: Licorice
Metabolic aid: Alder
Migraine: Virgin’s Bower
Motion Sickness: Angelica
Multiple Sclerosis: Evening Primrose, Skullcap
Narcotic: Larkspur
Nervous System: Dutchman’s Britches
Oral aid: Alder, Blackberry, Cow Parsnip, Goldthread, Horsetail, Oregon Grape, Purslane, Sumac, Willow
Orthopedic aid: Birch, Hawthorn, Horsetail
Pain: Arnica, Idaho Syringa, Indian Pipe, Puccoon, Skullcap, Valerian, Willow
Parasites: Bindweed, Bitterbrush, Black Walnut, Western Mugwort, Wolf Lichen, Wormwood
Pediatric aid: Blackberry, Bunchberry, Catnip, Mountain Ash, Red Clover, Uva Ursi
Poison Ivy: Sheep Sorrel, Soapwort, Sumac
Prostate: Evening Primrose, Horsetail, Labrador Tea, Mountain Mahogany, Puccoon, Stinging Nettle
Pulmonary aid: Turkey Tail
Purgative: Bindweed
Rattlesnake Bite Remedy (Wilderness Firstaid): Horehound
Respiratory Aid: Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Lodgepole Pine, Lomatium, Mullein, Salad Burnet
Rheumatism: Angelica, Arnica, Birch, Bittersweet, Cottonwood, Cow Parsnip, Elder, Dandelion, False Hellebore, Henbane, Maiden Hair Fern, Ninebark, Pipsissewa, Ponderosa Pine, Rabbitbrush, Scarlet Gilia, Valerian, Willow, Yellow Dock
Sedative: Asparagus, Baneberry, Black Locust, Coral Root, Elephant Head Betony, Henbane, Indian Pipe, Juniper, Skullcap
Skin Cancer: Larkspur
Sleep Aid: Elephant Head Betony, Pearly Everlasting, Saint John’s Wort, Coral Root, Valerian
Smoker’s Aid: Juniper, Mullein
Spleen: Astragalus, Blue Gentian, Red Root
Sprains: Arnica, Baneberry, Brown’s Peony
Stimulant: Teasel
Stomach aid: Alumroot, Amaranth, Angelica, Avens, Blackberry, Bud Sagewort, Bugleweed, Buffalo Berry, Bunchberry, Cascara Sagrada, Cow Parsnip, Desert Buckwheat, Dutchman’s Britches, Elephant Head Betony, Goldthread, Horsehair Lichen, Indian Paintbrush, Juniper, Licorice, Oxeye Daisy, Prairie Smoke, Purslane, Red Belted Polypore, Salad Burnet, Snowberry, Sweet Cicely, Tansy, Teasel, Watercress, Western Mugwort, Wild Ginger, Wormwood
Stress: Labrador Tea, Saint John’s Wort, Skullcap
Sunburn: Cinquefoil, Red Root
Textile: Buffalo Berry
Throat Aid: Alumroot, Amaranth, Avens, Bistort, Black Locust, Black Walnut, Cinquefoil, Cottonwood, Cranesbill, Golden Current, Goldthread, Gumweed, Horehound, Mountain Ash, Prairie Smoke, Pyrola, Red Osier Dogwood, Red Root, Sumac
Thyroid: Black Walnut, Coral Root, Bugleweed, Puccoon
Tonic: Avens, Birch, Blackberry, Burdock, Dandelion, Dutchman’s Britches, Goldthread, Horehound, Labrador Tea, Lodgepole Dwarf Mistletoe, Mountain Mahogany, Mountain Mist, Mullein, Purslane, Rabbitbrush, Red Clover, Steeplebush, Tansy, Watercress, Western Yew, Wormwood, Yellow Dock
Tooth Aid: Alder, Oregon Grape, Rabbitbrush, Red Osier Dogwood, Sumac
Tranquilizer: Bugleweed, Catnip, Henbane, Mullein, Valerian
Tuberculosis: Hound’s Tongue
Tumor inhibitor: Bittersweet
Ulcers: Black Walnut
Urinary Tract: Cleavers, Goldenrod, Horsetail, Huckleberry, Mountain Ash, Mullein, Pipsissewa, Purslane, Pyrola, Red Belted Polypore, Uva Ursi, Willow
Vermifuge: Larkspur, Sheep Sorrel, Tansy
Venereal aid: Dutchman’s Britches, Scarlet Gilia
Veterinarian aid: Alder, Alumroot, Angelica, Arnica, Arrowleaf Balsamroot, Asparagus, Brown’s Peony, Burdock, Chicory, Cinquefoil, Elder, Goldenrod, Gumweed, Hawthorn, Horsetail, Hound’s Tongue, Juniper, Mullein, Ponderosa Pine, Purslane, Saint John’s Wort, Scarlet Gilia, Skullcap, Stinging Nettle, Sweet Cicely, Tansy
Visceral obstructions: Soapwort
Weight Loss: Evening Primrose
Whooping Cough: Bittersweet
Wilderness First Aid: Bud Sagewort, Buffalo Berry, Hound’s Tongue, Licorice, Pearly Everlasting
Wounds: Alumroot, Bindweed, Bistort, Buffalo Berry, Burdock, Chicory, Cinquefoil, Dandelion, Evening Primrose, Fir, Golden Current, Horsehair Lichen, Hound’s Tongue, Idaho Syringa, Indian Paint Brush, Indian Pipe, Lomatium, Mountain Mahogany, Mountain Mist, Oxeye Daisy, Penstemon, Pipsissewa, Ponderosa Pine, Prairie Smoke, Pyrola, Rocky Mountain Maple, Salad Burnet, Self-Heal, Sweet Cicely, Usnea, Virgin’s Bower, Western Yew, Wild Ginger, Yarrow
Yeast Infection: Goldthread, Sweet Cicely
Family: Betulaceae
Genus: Alnus
Species: sp.
Taxon: Alnus sp. including A. glutinosa, A. rubra
Description: Alder bark is greenish-gray to reddish-brown, thin and smooth on small trees, becoming scaly near the base on more mature, larger trees. The flowers, which appear early in the spring before the leaves develop, are reddish green. Male flowers are borne in drooping catkins and the female in erect catkins, both on the same tree. The cone-like fruit usually remains on the limbs throughout the winter. The bark has a strong, rather aromatic odor and a bitter astringent taste. Alder grows along streams and around springs or seeps, attaining a height of six to fifteen feet. It associates with Lodgepole pine, Willows and Aspen.
Harvesting: Gather the bark at any time of year. The developing cones are gathered from early autumn and up to March, depending on elevation. Harvested cones remain stable for three years. Alder leaves are best gathered during mid-spring.
Historic Notes: The Nez Perce people used alder as a dermatological aid. A poultice of moistened, heated leaves was placed on wounds to reduce swelling and speed healing. Fresh leaves were often placed in moccasins during a long journey – the tannin in the leaves toughened the feet.
Flower Essence: Taking life at surface value; unable to see what one senses to be true; promotes clarity of perception on all levels; helps us integrate seeing with knowing so that we can recognize our highest truth in each life experience.
Hydrosol: (Hydrosol lasts approx. 18 months) This Hydrosol is made during the winter months when the catkins are forming. The catkins and peeled bark are put into the distiller together. Alder Hydrosol can be applied directly on eczema, poison ivy and nettle rashes. It is also very effective when taken externally, one dropper per half cup of water, for alleviating allergy attacks. Taken regularly, two droppers in 1 cup of water after meals, it aids in digestion.
Cautions: Fresh alder bark is an emetic, causing stomach cramping and vomiting.
Cultivation: Zones 2 - 7. Our native alders prefer a heavy soil and a damp situation. However, they also grow well in heavy clay soils and can tolerate very infertile sites. Alder is a fast-growing tree with a short life span. They can be started from seed, which are best sown in a cold frame. Use the whole mature cones harvested in late March or early April. Barely cover the cones with fine soil. Seed can also be sown in an outdoor bed in the spring. The trees, however, are most easily started from cuttings of mature wood, taken as soon as the leaves fall in autumn. Start the cuttings outdoors in damp sandy soil, mulching heavily in cold climates. There are a few pests to be aware of when growing alder. These trees are a host to the gypsy moth and fall webworm (which also attacks ash trees). Female cones are sometimes damaged by powdery mildew. Tent caterpillar can be a threat. Cankers and leaf rust may also occur, but are less serious.
Constituents: The plant contains alnincanone, brassinolide, castasterone, and taraxerone. The leaves contain three-beta-hydroxy-glutin-5-en, alnusfoliendiolone, delta-amyrenome, L-ornithine, and sucrose. Bark contains alnulin, beta-sitosterol, citrullin, emodin, glutinone, hyperoside, lupeol, phliobaphene, protoalnulin, tannin, and taraxerol.
General Usage
Allergies – Harvest the green alder cones during the late autumn or early winter months and dry them. Grind the dried cones in a coffee grinder then put the powder into #00 capsules. Take two daily for three weeks. Repeat twice yearly, in the early spring and autumn.
Amoeba Infestation – Prepare a tincture of the green cones by filling a jar with your fresh harvest. Cover the cones with food grade alcohol (such as vodka or rum). Seal the jar and allow the mixture to stand at least three weeks. Filter the liquid through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth, discarding the cones. Decant the tincture in dark bottles and store in a cool, dark place. Take one teaspoon of cone tincture in ½ cup of water first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Repeat before noon and evening meals. Take an additional dosage ½ hour before mealtime. The tincture may be taken for several weeks without known adverse effects.
Antibiotic – A tincture of the fresh catkins and dried bark has an antibiotic activity against many strains of bacteria, including methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Use equal portions of catkins and bark when tincturing, following the procedure described in Amoeba Infestation. Take in ½ teaspoon dosages up to six times daily.
Dermatological Aid – Tincture and Alder Bark Salve are useful in treating eczema. Take ½ teaspoon tincture of dried alder bark twice daily with meals. Apply salve externally to eczema, as needed. A poultice of moistened, heated leaves can reduce swelling and help heal wounds or skin ulcers. An infusion of fresh bark is effective when applied to poison ivy rash. Use two tablespoonfuls of the bark per one cup of boiling hot water. Cool before applying. For head lice or scabies, simmer ½ cup fresh bark in one pint of vinegar for ten minutes. Cool. Use as a hair rinse two times a day.
Diaphoretic – Make an infusion of the dried bark using two tablespoons of dried bark per cup of hot water. Sip slowly.
Diarrhea – To stop diarrhea take two #00 capsules of dried powdered bark three times a day, not to exceed two days.
Emetic – The fresh bark will cause vomiting and cramping, so use dried bark for other than emetic purposes.
Gynecological Aid – To regulate menstrual flow, take one #00 capsule of powdered dried bark two times a day.
Hemorrhage (internal) – Take three capsules of the dried powdered cones three times daily until bleeding has stopped.
Inflammation of the Upper Intestine – Infuse ten to fifteen dried young alder cones in a cup of hot water and take three cups daily for three days. Or use ½ to one teaspoon of the tincture in one cup of warm water several times daily as an astringent in acute and chronic enteritis, enterocolitis, dysentery or colitis. Take dosage for three to seven days.
Metabolic Aid – To improve food absorption and fat metabolism, make a decoction of two tablespoons dried bark per one cup of water. Take 1½ ounces at mealtimes.
Oral Aid – For sore throats and hoarseness make a decoction of three tablespoons of dried bark per one cup of water. Use as gargle.
Tooth Aid – Use a decoction of ½ cup dried bark per one cup of water for cleaning teeth and strengthening gums. Unused portion stores refrigerated for five to six days. Alder Bark Toothpaste safely whitens teeth. Brush your teeth with the paste twice a day for up to ten days.
Veterinarian aid: Treatment of blood ailments, rheumatic joints and other swellings. Used also for udder swelling and inflammation. Mash the leaves well with a small amount of tinctured Brown’s Peony root. Bind material over swelling and wrap with gauze. Also give a dose internally twice daily until symptoms subside by mixing a handful of chopped dried bark in bran or oats for large animals; half dose for sheep and hogs; ½ cup strong decoction for large to medium dogs. Give 1 tsp. tinctured dried bark to cats.
Recipes
Cut alder bark into thin strips. Pack four cups of fresh alder bark into a quart jar. Fill the jar with jojoba oil to one inch of the top. Loosely cover the jar and let stand in a warm place for three weeks. Strain the oil through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth, discarding solids. Put oil in the top of a double boiler. Add 1½ ounces of shaved beeswax to the oil and heat slowly over simmering water. Pour into salve jars and cool completely before applying lid. Use salve for treating eczema and similar skin conditions.
½ cup finely powdered dried Alder Bark
2 cups of water
1 tsp. sea salt
2 tsp. baking soda
2 drops of essential oil of peppermint or anise
Soak the moss and powdered bark in water 25 minutes, and then bring it to a slow boil in a small pot. Simmer for 25 minutes. The moss may or may not completely dissolve. As the mixture cools it will begin to gel. Once cooled, strain the gel through cheesecloth into a small container. Mix salt and soda, and then add to the gel. After that is well mixed, add the essential oil and mix again. Store the toothpaste in a small sealed jar in the refrigerator.
Family: Saxifragaceae
Genus: Heuchera
Species: rubescens
Taxon: Heuchera rubescens
Description: Alumroot is often overlooked unless it is in bloom. In the springtime many small flowers, ranging in color from pinkish-white to light green, bloom intermittently on leafless spikes. They tend to cluster along one side of the stem. The leaves are basal, ranging from ½ to one inch across. The root is large, scaly from dead growth, and usually angled out or even downward from rock crevices. It has a dark coating and inner pith that ranges from flesh colored to pink. This inner pith has a strong, intensely astringent taste. The plant can be found growing in moist, sloped rocky areas.
Harvesting: The root is the part of the plant used medicinally. There is no reason, however, to destroy a plant when harvesting the root. Alumroot develops its large scaly roots just below the surface of the soil, so there is no need for a shovel. Merely reach into the loose soil with your fingers and break off a clump. Try not to take more than one third of the root, leaving the plant with enough to continue its cycles of life.
Historic Notes: Alumroot is one of North America's strongest astringents, containing up to twenty percent tannin.
Flower Essence: The power of the small; manifestation of "godliness;" ability to move in a pattern without having to do it “your” way; willingness to choose “to be”.
Cautions: Excessive use can cause gastric irritation and kidney and liver problems.
Cultivation: Zones 3 - 6. Methods of propagation include seed, division and leaf cuttings. Leaf cuttings are taken in late fall and consist of the entire leaf plus a short segment of the petiole. Division is the best method and is done in spring. When starting from seed, the seeds should be chilled for four weeks and up to four months. It is best to keep the seeds in the refrigerator until sowing. The seed germinates in three weeks at 65° to 75° F. Do not cover the seed with soil. Alumroot does best in rich, moist soil with excellent drainage in full sun in the North, partial shade in the South.
Constituents: Includes tannin, phlebotannins, and assorted polyhydric phenols with galloyl glucosides.
General Usage
Diarrhea – An infusion of the root is taken to stop diarrhea. Soak two tablespoons of fresh, clean chopped roots in one cup of boiling hot water for thirty minutes. Take in mouthful doses over a course of an hour. If dried root is used, simmer one tablespoon dried root in 1½ cups of water for ten minutes.
Hemorrhaging – For ulcers of the stomach and esophagus simmer ¼ cup of the chopped, dried root in water for twenty minutes; take ½ cup before every meal.
Stomach Aid – Simmer one tablespoon of the chopped dried root in one pint of water for twenty minutes and take in small doses to ease vomiting and diarrhea.
Throat Aid – Prepare the root following directions for stomach aid, adding one tablespoon chopped Oregon Grape root to the pint of water. Gargle with the mixture.
Veterinary Aid – Mashed, boiled leaves are used as a wash for saddle sores on horses. The soaked roots can also be given to horses for colic.
Wounds – The powdered dried root may be applied to cuts and abrasions to promote clotting. It is excellent mixed with equal parts of Goldthread to treat such wounds.
Shoshoni Usage
Antidiarrheal – Infusion of root was taken to stop diarrhea.
Febrifuge – A decoction of the root was sipped in small doses to reduce high fevers.
Heart Medicine – A decoction of root was taken several times daily for heart palpitations.
Liver Aid – An infusion of roots were taken to relieve liver trouble or biliousness.
Tonic – A decoction of the root was taken, over several weeks’ time, as a tonic for general debility.
Venereal Aid – Decoction of the root was applied to venereal sores.
Veterinary Aid – Mashed, boiled leaves were used as a wash for horses' saddle sores. Soaked roots were given to horses for cramps.
Family: Amaranthaceae
Genus: Amaranthus
Species: hypochondriacus, cruentus, retroflexus
Taxon: Amaranthus hypochondriacus, A. cruentus, A. retroflexus
Description: Amaranth is an annual herb with stout, upright stem 3 to 4 feet high. The plants bear alternate, oblong-lanceolate pointed, green leaves that have a red-purplish spot or tinged with purple. The flowers, which are bright-red, are compactly clustered on erect, compound racemes. Their seeds may be brown or black in weedy species and light-colored in domestic species. Some species of amaranth are known as pigweed. None of the species is poisonous and many are used as potherbs.
Harvesting: Look for amaranth along roadsides, in disturbed waste areas, or as weeds in crops throughout the world. Amaranth seed and leaves have been used effectively in a number of medicinal applications. Gather leaves in spring through early summer. Seeds are gathered in autumn. Shake the tops of older plants to get the seeds.
Historic Notes: It is believed that amaranth was brought to America by those first migrants from the Tower of Babel, who have traveled eastward across China and launched their barges on the Pacific, eventually reaching Mexico around 2000 B.C. Chinese had been using this herb for centuries as a remedy for profuse menstruation.
Flower Essence: Holds the essence required to open the door between the living and the dead. The language of the amaranth is eternal life.
Cautions: When grown on nitrogen-rich soils Amaranth are known to concentrate nitrates in the leaves. This is especially noticeable on land where chemical fertilizers are used. Nitrates are implicated in stomach cancers, blue babies and some other health problems. Do not take Amaranth medicinal during pregnancy.
Cultivation: Zones 3 - 8. Amaranth is not picky as to soil type, but prefers a well-drained fertile soil in a sunny area and requires a hot sheltered position if it is to do well. Sow seed late spring directly in garden. An earlier sowing can be made in a greenhouse and the plants put out after the last expected frosts. Germination is usually rapid if the soil is warm; a drop in temperature overnight aids germination. Cuttings of growing plants root easily. Plants should not be given inorganic fertilizers, see Caution on toxicity.
Constituents: Mucilage, tannin, sugar. High in vitamins A and C. Excellent source of calcium, iron, magnesium, and folate.
General Usage
Anti-inflammatory – Applied externally, Amaranth can reduce tissue swelling from sprains and tick bites. Fresh bruised leaves, as well as Amaranth Salve, are effective in treating both swelling and bites.
Dermatological Aid – As a wash to foul, indolent ulcers make a strong infusion using ½ cup of Amaranth leaves per 1 pint of water. Simmer 5 minutes, cool, strain, and then apply frequently to external ulcer.
Diarrhea – Take tinctured Amaranth seed in ½ tsp. doses every two hours, or as Tea. For tea, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil then add 2 tsp of seeds. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat and add 1 tsp of leaves, and let it steep for 30 minutes. Drink 4 cups of this tea daily.
Enema – As an enema for colon inflammation and rectal sores simmer 2 Tbsp. of the seeds in 1 pint of boiling water for 10 minutes. Cool and strain.
Flu – Amaranth is used to battle stomach flu accompanied by diarrhea and vomiting. Follow preparation and dosage for Diarrhea.
Gynecological Aid – Amaranth is used both to stop excessive menstruation and for contraception. A strong decoction of the leaves (2 tablespoons per cup of water) drunk freely (5 to 7 cups daily) is highly recommended in severe menorrhagia. For conception, drink three cups of seed tea daily. Bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil then add 3 tsp of seeds. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. As a douche for leucorrhea, simmer 2 Tbsp. of the seeds in 1 pint of boiling water for 10 minutes. Cool and strain.
Hemorrhaging – Amaranth is very effective for treating hemorrhaging from the bowels. Bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil then add 2 tsp of seeds. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat and add 1 tsp of leaves, and let it steep for 30 minutes. Drink 4 cups of this tea daily.
Stomach Aid – For treating gastroenteritis or spitting of blood, take Tea made of the seeds and leaves. For tea, bring 3 cups of water to a rolling boil then add 2 tsp of seeds. Cover and simmer for 5 minutes on low heat. Remove from heat and add 1 tsp of leaves, and let it steep for 30 minutes. Drink 3 to 4 cups of this tea daily. A tincture of leaves and seeds may also be used (½ tsp. in ½ cup warm water 3 to 4 times daily) may also be used, but is not as effective.
Throat Aid – As a gargle for mouth and throat irritations simmer 2 Tbsp. of seeds in 1 quart water for 15 minutes. Add 2 tsp. sea salt and cool. Use as a gargle 3 to 4 times a day.
Recipes
Finely chop the fresh leaves. Add enough jojoba oil to cover. Place mixture in a jar, and then place the jar in a pan of simmering water. Allow mixture to heat slowly for 1½ hours, being certain than the water in the pan does not simmer dry. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter. Add 1 Tbsp. bee pollen and thicken with enough shave beeswax to obtain the desired consistency. Drop a few drops onto a cold plate. If the consistency is too thin, add a little more beeswax.
Family: Apiaceae
Genus: Angelica
Taxon: Angelica sp.
Description: Angelica is a stout, hollow-stemmed plant ranging from 2 to 5 feet high. The large leaves are divided into smaller ones; oval to cut-leaf in shape. (The side veins end in the tip of the leaves and not, like water hemlock, in the valleys or notches of the leaves). The entire plant has a somewhat soapy scent. Lower parts of the plant may have a slight purplish tinge. (Not to be confused with water hemlock, a much more delicate plant with carrot-like leaves and purple or wine-colored splotches on the base of the stems). Angelica flowers form the usual inverted umbrella-like umbel characteristic of the family (Umbelliferae). The flowers are white, maturing into double seeds which, when the separate, are egg shaped and completely flat on the inner side. The large, fleshy root is medium brown with cream-colored pith.
Harvesting: The roots and seeds are used medicinally. Seeds are harvested in late summer; roots in early spring or late autumn. This is not a plant for the novice harvester. Angelica can easily be mistaken for Water Hemlock. It also cross-pollinates with Water Hemlock becoming toxic, so make certain that there is no Water Hemlock in the vicinity.
Historic Notes: It is believed that this herb obtained the name Angelica as it helped protect people from disease, including bubonic plague. It also blooms around May 8th, the feast day of Saint Michael, the archangel. The oil from seeds and the roots are used in Benedictine, chartreuse, vermouth and gin.
Flower Essence: Opens connection to higher spirit and supreme realms; helps knit things together in our lives. It enables one to experience angelic protection and guidance, both in daily life and in times of crisis.
Cautions: Large doses may affect blood pressure and stimulate the nervous system. Since Angelica is high in sugar it should be avoided by diabetics. Avoid during pregnancy and bouts of heavy menstrual bleeding.
Cultivation: Zones 3 - 7. Angelica seeds germinate easily (fresh seeds immediately, dried in about 3 weeks). Sprinkle Angelica seed on moist growing mix and leave the pots outdoors from fall to spring; cold promotes better germination. Or put the seed in moist growing mix in the refrigerator for six weeks, and then move to a warm, bright spot. Plant Angelica seedlings in the garden when they are small to minimize root disturbance.
Angelica thrives in moist, rich soil in light shade, or full sun in cool climates. Mulch and irrigate if the weather gets hot and dry. Fertilize in spring and midsummer.
Constituents: Essential oil (beta-phellandrene, pinene, limonene, caryophyllene, linalool), coumarins, macrocyclic lactones, acids (valerianic, angelic), resins, sterol, and tannin.
General Usage
Alcoholism – The taste for alcohol is often lost when two capsules of dried powdered root are taken morning and evening.
Anti-inflammatory – Angelica Anti-inflammatory Salve made from the infused oil of the seeds, can be rubbed on sore muscles.
Cold Remedy – Capsules of the powdered root are used for colds or chest ailments. Take two #00 capsules morning and evening. For coughs try Angelica Cough Drops.
Digestive Aid – Tea made from simmering one teaspoon of dried chopped root in a cup of water for ten minutes, and then sipped slowly, stimulates digestion. You may also wish to try Angelica Chewable Anti-Acid Tablets.
Gynecological Aid – Teaspoon of dried root tincture in a cup of warm water helps alleviate heavy menstrual cramps. To make the tincture, combine two tablespoons of water per cup of finely chopped dried root in a glass container. Cover mixture with food grade alcohol. Allow the mixture to stand, covered, in a cool, dark place for four weeks. Strain through several layers of cheesecloth. Store the tincture in dark bottles away from heat and light. This tincture recipe works well for all dried plants.
Motion Sickness – Teaspoon of dried root tincture in a small amount of water relieves motion sickness.
Rheumatism – Angelica Liniment, made by pouring rubbing alcohol over the fresh root, and then straining after three weeks, helps relieve arthritis and rheumatism when applied externally.
Stomach Aid – The tinctured seeds are used for acid indigestion, nausea and vomiting. Mix one teaspoon of the tincture in ½ cup of warm water. Seeds are best tinctured fresh. To prepare a fresh seed tincture, gather the seeds in early summer. Place them in a glass jar or container and cover with a food-grade alcohol. Cover tightly and allow mixture to stand in a cool, dark place for three weeks before straining and bottling the tincture.
Veterinary Aid – Several Native American tribes of the Rocky Mountain region used Angelica to treat horses with symptoms similar to canine distemper – lack of appetite, running nose and weeping eyes. A dried root compound made of equal amounts of Angelica, Lomatium and Arrowleaf Balsamroot was soaked briefly in water, and then added to a small campfire. The horse was tied to a tree near the fire and the smoke was directed into its nostrils with a feather fan. This process was repeated twice daily until the animal regained its health.
Shoshoni Usage
Adjuvant –The root and seeds of the plant were used as an adjuvant to improve flavor or amplify effect of medicines.
Antirheumatic (external) – A poultice of pulped roots was applied to rheumatic pains or swellings.
Cold Remedy – A decoction of roots used for colds or chest ailments. The dried, shaved roots were smoked in cigarettes for head colds. A hot decoction of roots and whiskey were taken for heavy chest colds.
Pediatric Aid – A decoction of split root was given to children for whooping cough.
Pulmonary Aid – A poultice of pulped roots applied for pneumonia.
Tonic – A decoction of roots taken in small doses as a tonic.
Tuberculosis – Decoction of roots taken for tuberculosis. A decoction of roots was taken for tuberculosis.
Veterinary Aid – Smoke from the root compound of Angelica, Lomatium and Arrowleaf Balsamroot was inhaled by horses for distemper.
Recipes
Angelica Anti-inflammatory Salve
Gather seeds while they are still green, but beginning to turn light brown. With a pestle and mortar crush seeds. Put the crushed seeds in a clean jar and cover with jojoba oil. Allow mixture to stand in a warm place for three to four weeks.
Strain the oil through a coffee filter or several layers of cheesecloth. Discard seeds. To every five ounces of oil add one ounce of beeswax. Heat oil and wax together in top of a double boiler until well blended. Pour into jars and seal. Use salve for sore muscles and sprains.
Angelica Chewable Anti-Acid Tablets
½ cup dried Sweet Cicely root
1 tsp. honey
1 tbsp. powdered calcium
In coffee grinder, grind the seeds and root into a fine powder. Place the powdered ingredients in a saucepan and add two cups of water. Simmer over medium high heat until all liquid has evaporated and the mixture has formed a paste. Turn the paste onto a work surface (a marble slab works well) and work the honey and powdered calcium into the paste with a spoon.
When cool enough to handle, form into small marble-sized balls. Flatted the balls with the bottom of a cup or glass. Set the tablets on a paper towel to dry thoroughly. Store the tablets in an airtight container. Chew one or two as needed for indigestion.
½ cup finely chopped fresh Angelica Root (or ¼ cup dried)
¼ cup fresh finely chopped Mullein Leaves (or 2 Tbsp. dried)
¼ cup chopped fresh Horehound leaves (or 1 Tbsp. dried)
1 cup water
2 cups brown sugar
3 tbsp. butter
½ cup molasses
Combine herbs and water in small sauce pan and bring mixture to a simmer. Turn off heat, cover and let herbs steep for about 15 minutes. Strain the liquid, discarding solids. Add enough water to make one cup.
In a saucepan with the sides buttered, add the 1 cup of herbal liquid, 2 cups of sugar, 3 tablespoons butter and the molasses. Bring mixture to a boil over medium heat; do not stir the mixture or scrape the sides of the pan or crystallization may occur. Continue to boil until temperature on a candy thermometer reaches 260º- 270º F. This is important; if thermometer registers higher, the mixture hardens too fast.
Quickly pour onto a buttered baking pan and let set until cool enough to handle. Pull the mixture with buttered hands, twisting into ropes 4 to 5 inches long. Snip into pieces with kitchen shears. When cut, place all the pieces in a plastic container with fine granulated sugar and shake for coating. Store cough drops in a tightly sealed container.
Family: Compositae
Genus: Arnica
Species: cordifolia; sp.
Taxon: Arnica cordifolia, Arnica sp.
Description: The stems have two pairs of heart-shaped leaves topped by broad, yellow flowers. Each flower contains ten to fifteen rays and many tiny disk flowers; the bracts have long, spreading hairs. Flowers turn into fuzzy seed heads, similar to the dandelion, but finer. Arnica grows in patches in open alpine areas. They bloom from April through June, but frequently may be found blooming in September, as well.
Harvesting: Although many published herbals suggest using the entire plant, the flowers contain the most active constituents. Arnica is a perennial and it makes much more sense to pick flowers rather than destroying the whole plant. One of the rewards for such conservative harvesting is yours, since spring harvested plants will produce more flowers in the autumn!
Historic Notes: Arnica remains a popular homeopathic remedy administered for epilepsy, injury, seasickness, shock, trauma and vertigo. Used homeopathically it is also useful when dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder resulting from exposure to violence, terror, death, disaster, or hysteria.
Flower Essence: For shock or trauma; helps the physical body to re-connect with the higher self.
Cautions: Since internal use can cause irritation to the kidneys and digestive tract, take only homeopathic preparations orally. When using topically, do not use Arnica on broken skin. It can cause skin irritation.
Cultivation: Zones 3 - 6. Arnica prefers rich, well-drained soil. Chill seeds at 24° to 39° F. for two to four weeks. Sow seeds directly in the ground when all chance of spring frost has passed.
Constituents: Sesquiterpene lactones, including the pseudoguanolide arnifolin, the arnicolides, helenalin, six-0-isobutyryl-tetrahydrohelenalin and two [[beta]]-ethoxy-6-0-isobutyryl-two, three-dihydrohelenalin; flavonoids including eupafolin, patuletin, spinacetin and aciniatin, plus methylated flavonoids including betuletol and hispidulin. Volatile oil, containing thymol and various ethers of thymol. Mucilage and polysaccharides. Miscellaneous resins including bitters (arnicin), tannins, and carotenes.
General Usage
Anti-inflammatory – Arnica is one of the best remedies for external local healing and may be considered a specific when it comes to the treatment of bruises and sprains.
Foot Aid – Rub sore or tired feet with Arnica Lotion.
Gynecological Aid – Arnica Lotion greatly eases the soreness of the breasts.
Pain – Arnica Salve or Lotion may be used wherever there is pain or inflammation on the skin, as long as the skin is not broken. Use a compress moistened with Arnica Lotion for varicose veins.
Rheumatism (external) – The herb itself, used externally, will help in the relief of rheumatic pain, as well as pain due to similar conditions.
Veterinarian aid – The flower heads are used for bruises, joint stiffness, wounds, swellings and paralysis. The flowers are best used as a liniment. Soak the flower in rubbing alcohol for three weeks, strain, squeezing excess liquid from the solids. Massage externally into the affected part. Be certain that there is no open wound, as Arnica should not enter the blood stream.
Recipes
Step 1 – Steep 2 ounces of Arnica flowers in a pint jar and add 2 ounces of witch hazel. Cover tightly and allow the mixture to sit for three weeks. Strain the mixture through a coffee filter.
Step 2 – Melt 1 ounce of cocoa butter in a double boiler. Add 3 ounces of jojoba oil and Arnica mixture alternately, a bit at a time, stirring continuously. Remove from heat. Pour into a bottle. Shake almost continuously until cooled.
Step 1 – Fill a pint jar with 2½ cups fresh Arnica flowers, packing lightly. Cover the flowers with 1½ cups olive oil, and loosely cover the jar. Place in a warm spot for three weeks.
Step 2 – After three weeks strain the oil from the flowers, pressing flowers lightly to extract the oil. Place the oil in a small pan and heat gently. Add one ounce of shaved beeswax. Continue heating and stirring until wax melts. Pour salve into small jars. Allow salve to cool; seal.
Family: Asteraceae
Genus: Balsamorhiza
Species: sagittata
Taxon: Balsamorhiza sagittata
Description: Arrowleaf Balsamroot usually grows in large stands on hillsides. It has long, basal, silvery-green leaves shaped like arrowheads. Early spring blooming sunflowers are bright yellow and extend past the leaves on long stems. The root of Arrowleaf Balsamroot can be quite large--weighing up to 30 pounds. When broken or bruised, the massive, bark-covered root exudes a sticky, fragrant sap.
Harvesting: Arrowleaf Balsamroots are large and bulbous with a deep main taproot and several side roots. They grow on rocky hillsides, anchoring their roots among the rocks. Be prepared to spend around thirty minutes digging one. Besides a good shovel and a pick, sharp pruning shears are helpful in extracting the root. Harvest the root in early spring just as leaves are appearing or in the autumn when the leaves have died back. After scrubbing the soil from the root, break the outer bark from the inner core with a hammer. The core can then be pulled apart into long thin strips. The outer bark and inner core are then tinctured together.
Historic Notes: Rocky Mountain aboriginals consumed leaves raw or cooked, and roasted or ground the seeds into flour.
Flower Essence: Helps show us how to grow into our full potential and joyfully accept all the different stages of our lives. It gives us inner strength and confidence to go beyond the expectations of others so we may discover our own true gifts.
Cautions: Excessive use can cause nausea. Kidney irritation can result if Arrowleaf Balsamroot is used for an extended period of time in higher than recommended dosages.
Cultivation: Zones 3 - 6. Arrowleaf Balsamroot requires prolonged cool-moist stratification and incubation at cold temperatures. Sow at 64° to 71° F. for two to four weeks, move to 24° to 39° F. for four to six weeks, and then move to 41° to 53° F. for germination. These large, tap-rooted plants will thrive in rocky pastures; wet winter but dry summer.
Constituents: Dihydroxy-cycloartenol (root), hydroxy-two-0-hexa-nor-cycloartenone (root), hydroxy-cycloartenol (root), hydroxy-cycloartenone (root), hydroxy-lanosterone (root), hydroxy-methyl-kaempferol (leaf), methoxy-kaempferol (leaf), beta-hydroxy, beta-acetoxy, alpha eudesmol (root), beta eudesmol (root), beta sellinene (root), betuletol (leaf), carissone (root), cinnamic acid, heptadeca-one-cis-8-diene (root), jaceidin (leaf), montarusin (plant), nonacos-one-ene (root), patuletin (leaf), spinacetin (leaf).
General Usage
Adaptogen – As an Adaptogen, take 1 tsp. tincture of the root twice daily for six weeks.
Antibacterial – A tincture of the root or Arrowleaf Balsamroot Salve may be applied to infections and hard to heal wounds. A tincture of the root and bark may be used internally or externally for bacterial problems. For internal use take one teaspoon tincture three times daily.
Antifungal – Make a liniment from the pounded root and bark by infusing it in rubbing alcohol. Apply to athlete's foot and other fungal outbreaks.
Immune Stimulant – Use the tincture as you would Echinacea, taking one teaspoon twice daily to strengthen the immune system.
Veterinarian aid: Arrowleaf Balsamroot is a natural antibiotic for pets and livestock, as well as a blood and lymphatic system cleanser. It is excellent for infections of the respiratory tract or head. It should only be used when necessary for no more than three weeks at a time. Dosage for small animals is ¼ to ½ tsp. of the tinctured root. Large animals, such as horses and cows can take 2 Tbsp. tincture per dosage.
Shoshoni Usage
Dermatological Aid – Poultices of mashed root were applied to insect bites and swellings.
Eye aid – A decoction of the root was used as eyewash.
Venereal Aid – A poultice of mashed root was applied to syphilitic sores.
Recipes
1 tbsp. shaved beeswax
10 oz. infused Arrowleaf Balsamroot oil
4 oz. distilled water
To make infused oil, fill a quart jar half full of the outer root bark of Arrowleaf Balsamroot. Cover with olive oil and allow it to stand in a warm place for three to four weeks. Strain the oil from the bark.
Over low heat gently melt cocoa butter, wax and oil over double boiler, stirring until blended. Remove from heat. Put distilled water into blender and agitate. While water is spinning, slowly pour the cocoa butter mixture into the water. Continue mixing until emulsified. You may notice a distinct change of sound as the cream congeals. Pour the cream, while still warm, into clean containers and leave open until completely cool.
Family: Liliaceae
Genus: Asparagus
Species: officinalis
Taxon: Asparagus officinalis
Description: Asparagus officinalis grows wild in southern Europe, southwestern England, and southern Ireland and has naturalized in many rural parts of the United States. These are perennial plants with erect stems and tiny branches bearing inconspicuous flowers followed by reddish berries that contain black seeds. Actually, asparagus have no functional leaves; those little green things on the stems are really called cladodes. This perennial can produce edible shoots for up to 30 years. The shoots provide fiber and vitamins A and C. Asparagus hoots are harvested in the spring for a few months and then left to develop into a fern-like plant, which prepares the roots for the next year's production.
Harvesting: Harvest the young shoots in early spring. Dig the rhizome in the autumn after the plant has died back. The shoots may be used fresh or tinctured. Dry or tincture the rhizome.
Historic Notes: Asparagus is filled with sulfur-containing amino acids that break down during digestion into six sulfur-containing compounds. These can impart a unique smell to urine as they are excreted. Scientists remain divided on why people have different urinary responses to eating asparagus. One camp thinks only about half of the population have a gene enabling us to break down the sulfurous amino acids in asparagus into their smellier components. Others think that everyone digests asparagus the same way, but only about half of us have a gene that enables us to smell the specific compounds formed in the digestion of asparagus.
Flower Essence: Promotes peace of mind, a loving nature, a good memory and calm spirit.
Cautions: In rare cases, can cause allergic skin reactions. Do not eat raw seeds, as they can be toxic.
Cultivation: Zones 2 - 7. Asparagus needs a light, free-draining but moisture retentive soil. A sunny site is best, although asparagus will grow with part sun. A raised bed will improve drainage. Sow seeds outside in mid-spring 1” deep in a good seedbed. Thin to 3” apart after germination. Plants should be transplanted into their permanent home the following spring. Crowns are the fastest way of establishing an Asparagus patch. Plant one or two-year-old crowns in early spring. Soak the crowns in warm water for about an hour before planting. Prepare a trench about 12” long by 8” deep with a 4” ridge in the center. Place the new plants on the ridge, spreading the roots evenly in a star shape. Cover the crowns with 2” of soil and then gradually fill in as the shoots emerge. Weed regularly to reduce competition and keep the beds clear, water well, especially in the first year, and mulch with compost annually. An Asparagus plant can produce edible shoots for up to 30 years.
Constituents: The main constituents include inulin, asparagusic acid, and eight fructo-oligosaccharides; two glycosidic bitter principles, officinalisnin-I and officinalisnin-II, are isolated from the dried root and yield b -sitosterol, sarsasapogenin, and nine steroidal glycosides (named asparagosides A to I, in order of increasing polarity). Other constituents include asparagine, tyrosine, succinic acid, arginine, a-aminodimethyl-g-butyrothetin (a methylsulfonium derivative of methionine), fat, and sugar. Asparagus is also rich in copper, phosphorous and essential amino acids.
General Usage
Arthritis – Because Asparagus helps to dissolve uric and oxalic acid it benefits arthritic conditions. Frequent consumption for the freshly cooked shoots are beneficial, as is tinctured fresh Asparagus shoots (30 drops taken three times daily).
Cancer aid – The immune stimulant effects of root may benefit cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. It can be added to tinctured Arrowleaf Balsamroot (1 part tinctured fresh Asparagus root to 2 parts that of Arrowleaf Balsamroot. The saponin constituents in the fresh shoots have been found to have some activity against human leukemia HL-60 cells in vitro. Root constituents in Asparagus sp. have also been found to inhibit SA and mouse S-180 leukemia cells.
Convalescence Tonic – The constituent fructo-oligosaccharides, found in fresh young shoots, is the most frequently studied constituents in Asparagus. It has been found to beneficially alter fecal microflora, particularly in elderly patients. When fructo-oligosaccharides are consumed, the undigested portion serves as food for “friendly” bacteria. Clinical studies have shown that consuming fructo-oligosaccharides can increase the number of these friendly bacteria in the colon while simultaneously reducing the population of harmful bacteria. Other benefits included increased production of beneficial short-chain fatty acids such as butyrate, which increases absorption of calcium and magnesium, and improved elimination of toxic compounds. The freshly cooked shoots are especially effective, although the tincture may be substituted when fresh Asparagus is not available – 30 drops three times daily.
Dermatological aid – Aparagus Astrigent Lotion is excellent for oily skin or acne.
Diuretic – Freshly cooked Asparagus shoots act as a simple diuretic, increasing the volume of urine, without increasing solids.
Gynecological aid – Tea (1½ tsp. chopped dried root per 1 cup boiling-hot water, several times daily) or tincture (40 drops several times daily) of Asparagus root irrigates the urinary tract. It is also a nourishing, blood-building tonic that enhances the health of both male and female reproductive organs. It is used is some countries to increase sperm count.
Heart aid – Recent studies have found that Asparagus root has a beneficial action on the heart muscle, effectively lowering blood pressure. As with most herbal heart tonics, it must be taken in regular doses over an extended period of time. Take ½ tsp. of the tinctured root twice daily.
Kidney aid – Steamed fresh Asparagus shoots (¼ lb. twice daily) or a tincture of fresh Asparagus shoots (50-60 drops in water, 3 times daily) can help dissolve kidney stones.
Sedative – The fresh shoots have a slight sedative /relaxing effect, making it an ideal food to calm tense nerves.
Veterinary aid – The Commission E reported a diuretic effect in animals. The juice of the fresh shoots or a tincture can be administered for the desired effect. Dosage depends on the weight of the animal, approximately 3 drops for every 2½ pounds. The whole plant, including the root is useful for the entire urinary system. It is also beneficial in treatment of jaundice and edema. Give a handful of raw shoots or chopped root twice daily to horses or cattle; half the amount to sheep or hogs. Its use temporarily diminishes milk production in lactating animals.
Recipes
½ cup strong infusion of Elder flowers
½ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
1 cup Heartsease flower or Wild Rose petal tincture
Combine all the ingredients in a glass jar and shake to blend. Bottle and store in the refrigerator or a cool dark place.
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Astragalus
Species: canadensis
Taxon: Astragalus Canadensis
Description: This robust perennial has a woody base and unusually unbranched stems. The leaves are pinnately compound with 7 to 17 oval to elliptic leaflets. Also known as Canadian Milk Vetch, Astragalus is found along riverbanks and in sandy soils. The May to August blooming yellowish- to white flowers are in an erect, spike-like cluster and the pods are erect with a tiny hook at the tip. There are distinctive hairs on the plant that when viewed under 10x magnification, appear pick-shaped with two branches.
Harvesting: The portion of the plant used medicinally is the four- to seven-year-old dried root collected in the spring.
Historic Notes: Astragalus canadensis is very closely related to the Chinese variety known as Huang qi. The Chinese name huang qi translates as "yellow leader," referring to the yellow color of the root and its status as one of the most important tonic herbs. Shen Nong, the founder of Chinese herbal medicine, classified astragalus as a superior herb in his classical treatise Shen Nong Pen Tsao Ching (circa A.D. 100). Astragalus is also being currently being studied to determine whether it benefits papillomavirus, herpes and cytomegaloviruges.