Have You Had Your Weedies Today? An Herb Guide for Beginners
They have been around for as long as man has been on earth. To those who don’t know their worth, they are considered pests but those who know them have cured ills, calmed toothaches, knit bone, and even used them to embalm bodies. Some call them weeds…others know them as herbs.
The ability for herbs to heal and make whole still applies today. Through infusions, teas, poultices, salves, and tinctures man has gained knowledge to heal through God’s miraculous pharmacy. Below is a list of common herbs and preparations.
Hot Infusions
Pour one cup of boiling water over one teaspoon of fresh or dried herbs. Herbs should be steeped for one minute while dried herbs are steeped for two to six minutes before using. To infuse roots, place chopped root in a pan covered with cold water and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and allowed to steep for at least three minutes.
Cold Infusion
Some herbs such as Mistletoe, Mallow and Calamus will lose their healing powers if boiled. In this case the herbs are infused in cold water. Cut up the herb, add cold water, and leave to steep for eight to ten hours. Warm the tea before drinking to just above room temperature.
Decoction
A decoction is used to extract the active components from the tougher parts of the herb plant. It is done by chopping or thoroughly crushing roots, bark, stem, as well as some seeds and berries. Once herbs are prepared they are put into a saucepan, covered with water and boiled about fifteen minutes, strained, and kept in a cool place. Decoction can be reheated to desired temperature before drinking.
Essences or Tinctures
For tinctures, use a glass reseal able jar (not plastic) Fill the jar loosely with the herb of choice. Pour Vodka or Rye Whisky over the herbs to cover them. Seal the jar well and leave in a warm sunny spot for at least fourteen days shake the jar well every a day. When time is up, strain the herbs by squeezing them through cheesecloth to remove all liquid. Discard used herbs and put tincture into sealed air tight bottles for future use.
Herb Poultice
Poultices can be made by heating or steaming fresh or dried herbs until they are soft and warm. Wrap the herbs in a clean piece of cloth and apply to the skin. The poultice should be comfortably warm with no cold spots.
Ointment
Old herbals suggest melting 500 gm of shortening or lard in a pan. Once the lard is hot, add two large handfuls of herb or finely chopped root. Leave on burner and let crackle briefly. Remove from heat and let cool overnight. In the morning, put mixture back on the burner and heat just enough to melt the lard. Using cheesecloth, filter the mixture though the cloth squeezing or wringing cloth to extract the melted lard. Discard the used herb and pour ointment into glass jars.
Alfalfa
Alfalfa was not known in North America as a healing herb until around 1850. It is rich in calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium, as well as vitamin A, D, E, G, K, and F. Alfalfa stimulates the appetite and helps aid in digestion. It is a blood builder and is especially good for inflammatory symptoms caused by arthritis, bursitis, and degeneration of joints.
Parts used:
Leaves are used in a hot tea infusion.
Leaves can also be used as a poultice.
Legend says that the house where alfalfa grows will never be in need.
Allspice:
Allspice contains proteins, lipids, vitamins A, B, C, and minerals. Allspice relieves flatulence, eases diarrhea, stimulates digestion, and has antiseptic properties.
Parts used:
Tea is made from a bruised berry in hot infusion.
A poultice can also be used for pain and infection
Columbus mistook the allspice berries for pepper giving it the proper name of (pimenta) which means pepper in Spanish.
Anise
Anise is one of the oldest known spices originating from the Middle East. Anise is used for indigestion, nausea, colic, and flatulence, and is added to cough medications because of its expectorant abilities.
Parts used:
Tea is made from bruised seed in hot infusion.
Anise is a common ingredient as flavoring in candy and liqueurs and was used effectively used as mousetrap bait in the 1600s.
Burdock
Because the burdock is high in iron and other essential minerals, it has a positive effect on the pancreas and spleen. It eliminates the body of uric acid, stimulates the digestive system, and purifies the blood of toxins.
Parts used:
- Tea is made from a decoction of burdock root.
- Poultice is made from leaves.
- It is said that the hooks on the burdock seed inspired the Swiss inventor, George de Mestral to develop Velcro.
Catnip
Although catnip is noted for being much loved by domestic cats, it is also an important herb for humans. Used in the Middle East mainly to flavor meat and salads, it was soon realized for its medicinal properties. Catnip eases cold and flu symptoms, relieves stomach complaints such as colic, spasms, flatulence and acid indigestion. Catnip has a mild calming effect and helps to promote sleep.
Parts used:
- Tea is made from infused leaves.
- Poultice is made from leaves.
- Tincture can be used externally for arthritis.
Caution:
- Catnip should not be used during pregnancy.
- Placing catnip around your home is said to promote good fortune.
Celery
Celery has been used as medicine since ancient times. The once wild herb was not eaten because of its bitterness. Today celery has been domesticated and is used for both medicinal and culinary purposes. It tones the liver, eases flatulence, helps to normalize blood pressure, and promotes sleep.
Parts used:
Tea made from bruised seed decoction.
In ancient times celery signified death and was used to make funeral wreaths.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is one of the oldest herbal medicines and was one of the most sought after spices in the fifteenth century. It has antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Cinnamon also relieves indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, and strengthens the digestive system.
Parts used:
Tea can be made from decoction of ground bark and bark chips.
The Egyptians used cinnamon as an embalming ingredient while ancient Hebrews and Arabs used it as a spice for perfume. This drove up the value of cinnamon equal to gold and frankincense.
Dandelion
Although farmers and gardeners consider the dandelion to be a menace, it is revered by herbalists as an excellent medicinal herb. Dandelion stimulates the liver and gallbladder, eases chronic bowel complaints especially with sluggish bowel, cleans the blood, and is an all over purifier ridding the body of toxins and impurities.
Parts used:
- Tea is made from leaf infusion.
- Chopped root decoction.
-
Leaves are a great addition to salad, and washed stems can be
chewed raw.
-
Stems and leaves are used for poultice for bee stings and snake
bites.
The French name for dandelion is “piss en lit” meaning piss in the bed. The name most likely came from its diuretic action during detoxification.
Echinacea
Echinacea’s ability to increase the production of white blood cells makes it an indispensable remedy if taken at the onset of a cold or flu. It is potent medicine for snakebite, as a pain reliever, and as an antiseptic. Echinacea’s powers far surpass its beauty and should be a constant in anyone’s garden and should only be taken at the onset of flu or cold.
Parts used:
- The root is decocted for tea.
- Ointment made from leaves.
- Poultice made from root.
Echinacea was once given as an offering to gain help from spirits for Magical work.
Garlic
One of the oldest herbs dating as far back as 3000 B.C.
Garlic contains amino acids, vitamins A and B, and a sulfur rich compound called allicin. It is world renowned as a medical cure-all that contains strong antibiotic abilities. Garlic is used in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels, has anti bacterial and antiviral action, and fights colds, cough and flu. Garlic regulates pancreatic functions, liver and gallbladder and stimulates the digestion.
Parts used:
- Garlic cloves can be crushed and infused.
- Poultice made from cloves.
Garlic was so revered that Egyptians swore on a clove of garlic when taking oaths. It was once believed that garlic possessed magical powers, especially against vampires.
Hops
Hops is a strong nervine and is used to promote relaxation and sleep. It stimulates the appetite and calms diarrhea, flatulence and cramps.
Parts used:
An infusion of female flowers and leaves are used for tea.
Caution:
- Hops should not be used for depressive illness.
- Pollen from hops flowers could cause dermatitis if it touches the skin.
Hops were once used to control sexual desires in men.
Lavender
While lavender is known for its aromatic scent and is also an effective antiseptic that kills bacteria. Known for its healing properties, Lavender relieves nausea, stomachaches, and flatulence. It eases muscle spasms by stimulating blood flow, calms and relaxes the body and promotes sleep.
Parts used:
- Mature flowers (either fresh or dried) are infused to make tea.
- Lavender oil can be used full strength on cuts and bruises.
- Ancient Greeks and Romans used lavender as a smelling salt.
Parsley
Restaurants use of parsley sprigs on our dinner plate dates back to the early Greeks and Romans to represent entertainment and good food. Parsley contains chlorophyll, vitamins A, B, C, and K, calcium, phosphorus, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, iron, beta-carotene, and manganese. It is used to flush the bladder and kidneys, stimulate the appetite, and strengthen digestion.
Parts used:
Leaves are used as an infusion for tea.
After a meal, parsley can be eaten raw to freshen breath.
Caution:
- Do not use parsley if you are pregnant.
- Strong or frequent doses of parsley can be toxic to kidneys.
Ancient Romans and Greeks wore garlands made from parsley believing it would prevent them from getting drunk.
Rosehip
Rose hips are high in vitamins A, E, K, P, and C. It can be used to strengthen the heart and brain, for soothing sore throats and to keep colds away. Rose oil is known for its uplifting effects on nerves and mood making it a perfect candidate for the bath, room diffusers, and massage oils.
Parts used:
Rose hips and petals are bruised and infused as tea.
Pure Rose oil is very expensive and can be bought from reputable
health stores.
Please remember this is merely a guide. It is not meant to take the place of your doctor’s advice or for self medication. Before taking any herbal remedy, speak to your doctor or a qualified herbal practitioner. Be sure to tell them about any medication you are presently taking including Over the Counter remedies such as ASA, eye drops, cold medicines, etc.
Liked it
IcyCucky | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Great, great article, Darlene. I’ve learned so many things from this..Thank you.
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Thank you Icy.
Meri Jeffrey | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
This has something to share, as usual with your articles. Thanx Darlene!
shaun ashcroft | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Great Darlene. I am an avid vege man and I learned some things. My huge catnip bush is now gouing to get a second look. I had never considered using it myself.
Joe Poniatowski | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Thanks for this excellent information. I have a lot of resources for the use of herbs, but didn’t know the differences between tinctures, decoctions, or any other kind of concoctions.
Judy Sheldon | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Very interesting. I’m with Joe. I know about herbal benefits, but was not sure how to make salves, etc. I grew up eating dandelion greens, and now can refer to this article for more uses of herbs. Thank you.
TP Sage | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Fascinating. Was all of this common knowledge or did just “Doctors” and other learned folk have this practical knowledge? Makes me want to go start a herb garden. Funny, everything seems to cure flatulence. Great article hon.
Nick Kenney | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Great article Darlene. I know that here in the states more and more people are turning away from modern medicine and looking into herbs.
Ruby Hawk | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Darlene, You have lots of great information here. I will have to give the burdock a try for my ailments. My mother used to make peach tree leave poltices for us when we had a chest cold. They worked wonders.
Lucy Lockett | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Wonderful article, one of my favourites is echinacea. I believe in using herbal remedies first.I have learned new things from your article, thank you!
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Merri, thank you for your comments. I am glad you liked the article.
Shaun. You will find your catnip bush is helpful in many ways. I knew a mother who used it to help her young children sleep and to calm them.
Joe,my mom and I make comfry tincture every fall, wounds heal twice as fast and it has been known to knit broken bones. It is sometimes called Knitbone.
Judy, do you still use dandelion greens? They are one of the most beneficial things you can use. Just chewing the fresh washed stems cleans the blood in spring.
TP Sage. It was common knowledge at one time but people got away from herbal use when doctors and pharmacy medicines became more plentiful. They are slowly coming full circle and people are choosing the natural way more and more. An herb garden is a great idea and you will probably find many usable weeds growing wild in your yard too.
Nick. Wild herbs are there for the taking. God’s Pharmacy has everything we need.
Ruby. A peach leaf poultice is one I haven’t heard of. I just learned something new.
Thank you all for your comments, I appreciate them so much. I have fallen behind in my article reading and have a lot of catching up to do. It will take a little bit but I will get caught up.
R.B. Parsley | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
Darlene, I enjoyed your article. Now I know what was in those poultices my grandmother made when I was young. A very educational article. I know a lot of people that think herbal medicines are phony medication. Ir they would stop and think, how else did people take care of they’re medical needs in days of old, they would know just how well these little home remedies worked. This is really great Darlene.
And thank you for all your comments and encouragement on my content. I’ll be downloading some new content real soon.
Randy
P.S. Keep up the good work. I really like reading these articles. I like learning about things that people take for granted.
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 17, 2008 | Reply
R.B., thanks for your encouraging comment. I know many people who think using herbs is just an old wive’s tales. They don’t realize that the heart med Digitalis is made from the herb Foxglove or that asprin is made from Willow bark. This is why it is so important not to take herbs internally with prescribed and OTC medications without knowing what they are and what they contain.
I look forward to reading your new work.
valli | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Excellent article.
Anne Lyken-Garner | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Fantastic research and information. I am a firm believer in herbal remedies. I think that we’ve been given natural cures for most of our illnesses, we just have to find them.
Thanks for sharing this.
Jessica Rowe | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Darlene this was a great article and I learned a lot from it. My mom has used herbs for a lot of thing for as long as I can remember, I guess it is time I did the same. Your article made it easy for me to understand what my mom has been trying to teach me for years. Thankyou
Alexa Gates | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
wow@ I’ve learned many things from this!
louie jerome | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Great info and amazing pictures.
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Valli, thank you for taking time to comment. I am behind in my article reading because of computer problems but should be back up and running soon.
Anne. More people are returning to the natural ways of healing. It makes sense to me.
Jessica. Hello! Nice to see you again. Listen to your mom, there is a lot to learn and, well worth the lesson.
Alexa. Thanks for your comment. I am glad you may have left with something you can use.
louie, the pictures are wonderful but I am afraid I can’t take the credit for them. Mine didn’t turn out and Lisa was kind enough to spend her time finding new ones and inserting them for me.
Francie | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Super good information, I read it yesterday and forgot to leave word. Typical of me…just a wealth of great health info packed into this article, some I knew and others not. Thanks, Francie
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Thank you Francie.
Cara Boynton | Feb 18, 2008 | Reply
Really good information. Thanks for sharing. I’m gonna try some and see if i can get my family feeling well again!
Dee Huff | Feb 19, 2008 | Reply
Darlene, this is a really good article. Herbs are nature’s own medicine cabinet, and an article like yours whips away the smoke and mirrors and presents it in a way that makes herbal remedies available for everyone to just reach out and pluck. Informative, clearly written, brilliant.
Emma C S | Feb 20, 2008 | Reply
Lovely article! I’m a firm beleiver in the power of herbs, although it’s funny, when I was little I was always told to be careful with dandelion stems because the juice in them could cause stomach aches. Is this true?
CHAN LEE PENG | Feb 21, 2008 | Reply
Darlene, thanks for your great article here that packed with concise info on herbs. Take care!
Darlene McFarlane | Feb 21, 2008 | Reply
Dee Huff, thanks for your kind words.
Emma, I think dandelion stems could cause stomach aches. During the cleansing process when the impurities make their way to elimination. Also, they are great for mild constipation which may cause cramps as. No more than ten stems should be eaten per day and never all at once.
Chan Lee Peng, Thank you for commenting on my article. I am always pleased when you drop by.
beauley, Lucien | Mar 20, 2008 | Reply
A very well researched and composed article. I will have to read it several times to absorb its true value. Just one thin for your own use concerning “cinnamon”. It is sold in pill form for blood glucose control. This is only recently available as a “medication” for warding off diabetis or for those who may have type II already. I like your entries on parsley. Your writing is still superb. Thanks Darlene.
Darlene McFarlane | Mar 20, 2008 | Reply
beauley, thank you for the tip for new uses of cinnamon. I didn’t know that it was now recognized in the medical field and the fact that it can ward off diabetes is fantastic news. I take it in the morning but for it’s antibiotic properties.
Thank you for your encouraging words.
Darlene
Rana Sinha | Apr 18, 2008 | Reply
Great article, thanks.The pictures add to the article. Looking forward to more of this kind.
beauley, Lucien | Apr 22, 2008 | Reply
I had to come back to this article. You mentioned cinnamon(for glucose control). It is now avalable in the herb/medicinal isle in pill form and labeled exactly for that purpose. By the way, Clove, Nutmeg and Allspice(which was mentioned above in your article) are approximately 95% effective as anti-bacterial herbs. Cinnamon is only about 75% effective. We use it in our coffee for glucose control along with one of the other three to kill bacteria that might be in the water, changing those for a different taste. Also, buying Cinnamon in the normal herbal container(4″) is about 100 times cheeper than pill form. It could even cost more if prescribed by a doctor.
beauley, Lucien | Apr 22, 2008 | Reply
I neglected to praise your article Darlene and I forgot to mention that the food pprep industry may be thinking of using the three antibacterial herbs,i.e, Clove, Nutmeg and Allspice as additives to ground hamburger, possibly prepared frozen foods, etc. This is only speculation right now. Of course, if there’s no profit to be made, we all know where this idea will go. Please keep writing these types of articles.
Herb Witch | May 28, 2008 | Reply
Great basic article on herbal medicine. Love the pictures. Thank you for posting this information. As you can tell from my “name” I’m a herb lover too!
I’m currently using cinnamon to help lower my cholesterol level. I sprinkle it on oatmeal, cream of wheat and brew it in my coffee. I’ve also purchased it in pill form so I can take it on the days that I’m not eating anything that would taste good with cinnamon sprinkled on it – like broccoli!
I just started a Herb Gardens blog over on the Today.com site: http://herbgardens.today.com.
Take care,
Herb Witch
badger harpin | Jun 3, 2008 | Reply
Plauged by migraines of the worst and embarrising sort, i have found only one thing that works and keeps it from comming back for months after a single usage of diferent methods, However it is illeagal… Although i read in science study that there is a mint leaf in mexico that has 10X the thc count … not really sure thats the actual ingredient that helps but its an educated guess… however i cant find/remember the actual name of the mint used in the salads. apart from trying to get to mexico and start eating salads anyone know which one i’m looking for?
Claudine | Jul 13, 2008 | Reply
Hi Darlene, I will come back here, this is all so very interresting. I’m from Belgium, yes, yes, that little European kingdom, am Flemish and have also a blog. Am a breast cancer patient and am fighting for the moment …
http://wennen-aan-die-naam-in-je-lijf.skynetblogs.be/
congratulations with your blog and all this great info!
have a nice week,
Claudine
beauley, Lucien | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
Again…a very good article, as usual. I’m just not aware of Vitamin G below Alfalfa photo.
Oh, I sent you some mail on Triond community site. If you didn’t get it, please let me know. It is some important info. I sent it a couple of days ago. Thanks.
Darlene McFarlane | Aug 23, 2008 | Reply
beauley, thanks for your kind comment.
Vitamin G is an obsolete name for vitamin B 2. I wasn’t aware of it either until recently.
I did get your mail, and thank you for bringing it to my attention. I have been researching to be sure I have all the facts before I put a plan into action.
I sent a reply yesterday late in the day-hope you got it.
Thanks
Dieter Hentz | Nov 8, 2008 | Reply
very useful