D

Magickal Uses: There is some disagreement whether this is a masculine or feminine herb, being cited in different texts differently and ruled alternately by Mars or Venus. Burn to produce visions. Good for love and lust spells. A liqueur of Damiana, in a goddess-shaped bottle, is a traditional wedding gift in Mexico. It can either be used as a drink or smoked to produce the desired effects of either lust or increase psychic and clairvoyant abilities prior to your ritual. It is said to increase the amount of energy you can raise plus making it more intense. It is taken as a tea by those who wish to explore the sexual side of yoga. Damiana should be stored with a piece of clear quartz and oil of Damiana is said to protect quartz.

Health Uses: Damiana acts as an antidepressant, tonic, diuretic, and to treat coughs. There are various reports good and bad about Damiana ranging from those who rave about its effects as an aphrodisiac and good guy for sexual health to those who suggest that it merely has a placebo effect and is only of use in the elderly. Never the less, I will provide a brief (this is brief believe me) insight into this herb.

Damiana is a wild Mexican herb that has traditionally been used as a general tonic by both men and women. For more than 100 years, Damiana has been associated with improving sexual function in both males and females. In Germany, the leaves are used for conditions of excess mental activity and nervous debility and as tonic action on the hormonal and central nervous systems. The Dutch firmly believe that Damiana has proven sexual enhancing qualities and positive effect on the reproductive organs.

The pharmacology of the plant suggests that the alkaloids could have testosterone-like actions. The leaf also contains beta-sitosterol, which may account for the stimulant effect on the sexual organs. This herb is a popular tonic for women looking to boost energy, relieve tension, and temper the fluctuations of the monthly cycle. It is considered to be an overall body tonic as it has a unique ability to relax tension within the body. Damiana affects the nervous system soothing anxiety, nervousness and mild depression, promoting the general feeling of well-being. Damiana also stimulates the circulation of the body consequently raising energy levels to alleviate fatigue and stimulate weight loss. Other known uses for Damiana are as a mild laxative useful for relieving constipation, soothing headaches caused by menstruation and for thinning mucus that results from asthma, colds and flu. A variety of scientific studies associate progesterone deficiency, particularly in post-menopausal women, to decreased libido. Thus, if the binding of Damiana extract to progesterone receptors indeed mimics the action of progesterone, Damiana could theoretically lead to increased libido in women with a progesterone deficiency. Furthermore, because progesterone is one of the major hormones involved in the female reproductive cycle, by the above rationale, one may infer that by possibly affecting progesterone detection, Damiana extract could ease the cyclical depression and anxiety often associated with the menstrual cycle. It is also a pleasant mood enhancer that leaves many people with a feeling of happiness and well-being (however, see below for the downside of this). Damiana stimulates muscular contractions of the intestinal tract and brings oxygen to the genital area. It is antiseptic to the urinary tract. Damiana is also very protective to the tissues of the reproductive organs, and used to heal "honeymoon cystitis", the pain and inflammation from frequent lovemaking.

Suggested Doses :

3 or 4 grams of powdered leaf consumed twice daily (in tea, in capsules or otherwise) is a recommended means of manifesting Damiana's aphrodisiac qualities. Drink 1 cup after meals of the mixture consisting of 32 grams of fresh leaves boiled for 15 min. in 1 liter of water to relieve stress. However, whilst these are the suggested doses, I would contact a qualified practitioner before taking this and it is recommended that you do not use it for prolonged periods.

Now for the bad news. According to the scientific community, there is no concrete proof that Damiana does any of the above but then there have been no long-term trials in humans but rather in rodents and the consensus is that the impotence and aphrodisiac uses are limited in efficacy to the elderly. There are possible adverse effects and/or overdose effects which include diarrhoea, nausea, polyuria and vomiting. Large doses can cause insomnia and headaches. It interferes with iron absorption so anyone who has suffered with anaemia or blood disorders should avoid Damiana. High doses may cause convulsions. Also it can have interactions with hypoglycemic drugs. Damiana has also been shown to bind to progestin receptors in cancerous breast tissue and to have properties similar to those of progesterone. For that reason I would advise against use of products containing Damiana in women with a history of breast cancer.

Dandelion

Magickal Uses This masculine herb represents Air and is also used in rituals for Hecate. A tea made from Dandelion root will stimulate psychic powers and left as an infusion by the bed will call spirits. Bury this herb in the north-west corner of your house to bring favourable winds. With weather magick, it is said that the fluff blown from the head of the dandelion when there is no apparent breeze is an indication of rain. Also, a dandelion seen in your dreams represents hard time a head though these will be ones of change and improvement.

Health Uses: Dandelion leaves are high in vitamins A, B, C, D, G. For those on non-sparing Potassium diuretic, dandelion has an abundance of potassium to replenish this. It is a mildly bitter herb that cleanses the bloodstream and liver and increases the production of bile. Dandelion tea is a natural diuretic and digestive aid and assists in the removal of excess fluid caused my liver conditions. It improves function of the pancreas, spleen, stomach and kidneys. There is some evidence that it may aid in the prevention of breast cancer and ages spots. The greatest benefit of this herb is to help detoxify any toxins in the liver, but is also has been beneficial in lowering high blood pressure by reducing cholesterol levels and for rheumatic conditions by riding the body of uric acid. The Root is one of the best remedies for treatment of hepatitis. To benefit from this herb, the leaves (slightly bitter) should be eaten raw in salads; or prepare an infusion in the usual way. Also, the 'milk' from the hollow stalks of this plant may be applied with good effect to all skin conditions and sores. The dried root is thought to be weaker, and is often roasted as coffee substitute. The dried leaf tea is a folk laxative. A further use for this wonderful herb is its mild antibiotic effects against yeast infections such as Candida albican. All plant parts have served as food. The leaves can also be boiled and served like spinach. In Chinese medicine, dandelion is regarded as a blood cleanser, a tonic, is used to reduce sugar levels in diabetes and as a digestive aid. It is ground and applied as a poultice to snake bites.

Magickal Uses: A powerful Exorcism and Purification herb, it is burned on charcoal to cleanse your house of negativity, or when casting a Magick Circle to clear any residual energy and create a pure space for your Magickal work. This is a great herb to burn when moving into a new house to remove the energy of the previous tenants.

Health Uses: This plant is so name for the barbed hooks on the fruit that have been known to trap or injure animals in South Africa, Madagascar, Kalahari Desert and Namibian steppes. This clinging fruit may cause injury when attached to the foot or hoof of an animal, though this acts as a method of seed dispersal. For thousands of years the Khoisan peoples of the Kalahari Desert have used devil's claw root, in remedies for treating pain and complications of pregnancy and in topical ointments for treating skin problems. Africans in general have used the herb for centuries to treat skin cancer, fever, malaria and indigestion. In the west, Devil's claw has been recommended for treating a wide variety of conditions including diseases of the liver, gall bladder, kidneys, and bladder, as well as allergies, arteriosclerosis, lumbago, menstrual difficulties, neuralgia, headache, climacteric (change of life) problems, heartburn, nicotine poisoning, and above all, rheumatism and arthritis. It is also prescribed in German and African medical clinics for lymphatic system toxicity, diabetes, nervous malaise, respiratory ailments, blood diseases, allergies, and senility and is widely utilized as an appetite stimulant and a digestive aid. The British Herbal Pharmacopoeia recognizes Devil's claw as possessing analgesic, sedative, febrifuge, bitter and diuretic properties. It is also an anti-inflammatory, antiviral, anti-fungal and anti-oxidant. The Commission E approved the use of devil's claw root for loss of appetite, dyspepsia, and degenerative disorders of the locomotor system. Devil's claw root has been used externally to treat sores, ulcer, boils, and skin lesions. According to Chinese medicine, Devil's Claw root is both Yin and Yang, which is rare for herbs and is good for circulation and the heart (though as you will see later there is much discussion on this).

This plant has found its main use in the treatment of arthritis. Devil’s claw relieves inflammations such as in bursitis, sprains and sciatica; it also alleviates muscle pain. It is useful as a supportive therapy for gout, arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatism. The anti-inflammatory and analgesic powers of Devil's Claw have been widely reported in both anecdotal and clinical research and trials. This action appears due to the presence of a glycoside called harpagoside that reduces inflammation in the joints. Devil's claw was reported helpful to reduce swelling, relieve pain, improve motility in the joints, and improved feeling of well being. A clinical study carried out in Germany in 1976 reported that Devil's claw exhibited anti-inflammatory activity, comparable in many respects to the well-known anti-arthritic drug, phenylbutazone. Controlled clinical research in Europe compared the efficacy of a standard anti-arthritic drug with that of Devil's Claw Root. The results revealed Devil's Claw Root to be more effective in reducing pain and inflammation and produced no unpleasant side effects. One unexpected benefit was the relief of constipation.

Those who follow the Devil's Claw Root regime find a reduction in pain and swelling and are also impressed to discover their cholesterol and blood sugar levels have normalized though caution should be taken as it is suggested that it may have hypoglycaemic effects. The anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties of Devil's Claw Root are generally observed in a few weeks.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the commonest forms of autoimmune disease, where an over active immune system causes damage to the joints. In addition to anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, Devil's Claw has recently been shown to have normalising effects on the immune system, helping to prevent further damage. The analgesic properties can be compared in strength to cortisone or phenylbutazone, both prescription medications used in the treatment of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis and both with serious side effects.

Devil's Claw is said to have 'bitter' properties, which means it stimulates the digestive processes. Bitter principles, like the iridoid glycosides found in devil's claw, stimulate the stomach to increase the production of acid, thereby helping to improve digestion and increase appetite. Those persons who have gastric ulcers or acid reflux problems should seek advise from a qualified practitioner or medic because of this bitter principle though there are reports that Devil's Claw has proved effective in treating such complaints as dyspepsia and also acts as a hepatic in treating liver and gall bladder problems. It has been found that the best results are achieved if used continuously for one month. Devil's Claw is also a natural cleansing agent for removing toxic impurities from the system including reductions in abnormally high cholesterol and uric-acid blood levels as well antioxidant effects, scavenging both superoxide and peroxyl in a dose dependent manner. Thus, Devils Claw will help prevent and overcome hardening of the veins and arteries and helps them to remain elastic as well as reduce the levels of uric acid crystals that can contribute to gout and other joint inflammatory conditions. This works to maintain the efficiency of the cardiovascular system produces a general over-all-body systems improvement, strengthening and slowing down the aging process. It is also known to lower blood pressure though there is some concern about the effect it can have on the heart (see cautions) as the glycosides can effect the heart potentially causing bradycardia or other arrhythmias.

Devil's claw is also used externally as an ointment to treat skin rashes, wounds, etc.

A variety of other herbs, when used in combination with devil's claw, may enhance its effectiveness in the body and these include Oregon grape root, black cohosh, guaiacum, and ginger root.

Constituents: Composed of three iridoid glycosides: harpagoside, harpagide, and procumbide, which are considered to be responsible for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Other active ingredients include beta-sitosterol, Flavonoids (kaempferol and luteolin glycosides). Phenolic acids, oleanolic acid, chlorogenic and cinnamic acid, A quinone, harpagoquinone, stachyose, and phytosterols, triterpenes, oleanolic and ursolic acid derivatives, Glycosidic phenylpropanoic esters ( Verbascoside and isoacteoside) and gum resin.

Magickal Uses: Dragon's Tears are small vivid red seeds of a magical herb believed to overcome hexes, crossings and all negative energy. It is considered one of the most potent uncrossing herbs available. 13 Dragons Tears are usually boiled in 1 cup of water the resulting liquid then being added to the bath, scrub or wash water. Dragon's Tears can be carried in a red mojo bag to ward evil away

Magickal Properties

This herb is part of the seaweed family and has many of the benefits that are found in other seaweeds such as kelp and Bladderwrack. Dulse is a red seaweed that grows on rocks at the low tide line in the North Atlantic and Northwest Pacific oceans where currents are strong and the bottom is clean. As they grow, they convert inorganic minerals from seawater into organic mineral salts that combine with amino acids and are readily available to the body. It contains many of the elements that a healthy body needs including Iodine, bromine, alginic acid, alginates, and other organic salts, especially sodium alginate. It also provides the highest source of iron and has significant amounts of phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, calcium, protein, niacin, thiamin, and vitamins A, C, E, and B12. The nutritional benefits of sea vegetables are astounding. A small amount of Dulse will provide more than 100% of the daily amount of Vitamin B6, and 66% of Vitamin B12. A day's supply of "organic" Iron and natural Fluoride for great for strong teeth. It is relatively low in Sodium and high in Potassium (www.viable-herbal.com; www.daystarbotanicals.com). Seaweeds are also extremely low in calories.

Dulse has an alkalising effect on the blood so neutralising wastes that build up in the body and also aids in removing radioactive and heavy metals from the body. It also prevents the absorption from the gut by binding these elements, which include radioactive strontium, barium, and cadmium. This is done by transforming them into harmless salts (via a substance called alginic acid) that are easily eliminated (www.daystarbotanicals.com). It is lower in Iodine than Kelp (www.iherb.com) so those persons who have an overactive thyroid could consider this seaweed for nutritional benefit though this should be discussed with their doctor or practitioner. Dulse has elements to eliminate excess uric acid from the system and has been used for genitourinary problems such as kidney, bladder, prostrate, and uterus. Clinical documentation shows that taking some each day can reduce enlarged prostrates in older men and urination can become painless (www.theherbsplace.com).

Seaweeds may reduce the risk of poisoning from environmental pollution by providing fibre that increases faecal bulk and also reduces cholesterol levels through the retardation of bile acid absorption. Recent research has suggested that Dulse may help reverse hardening of the arteries, reduce high blood pressure, regress and prevent tumours (http://www.daystarbotanicals.com/products/dulse.html)

With its high levels of iron and B12, this is one food source that anaemic people should consider.

Research has shown that Dulse has both antioxidant properties as discussed above also anti-carcinogenic properties. The Dulse extracts inhibited HeLa cell proliferation that is found in human cervical adenocarcinoma and has also been found in animal studies to reduce the risk of intestinal and mammary cancer (ift.confex.com)

It has been used to treat the problems associated with thyroid malfunction. Liquid Dulse can help to soothe an irritated throat and mucous membranes. It has been used for enlarged thyroid and lymph nodes, swollen and painful testes and to reduce oedema. All of these things can be caused by a malfunction of the thyroid gland (www.theherbsplace.com).

Seaweeds are used to promote wound healing. New generation dressings such as the hydrocolloid dressings are seaweed base as they provide optimal conditions for healing to begin.

It is known to prevent seasickness. Thus it should be of value in other conditions where motion sickness is the cause such as vertigo and labrynthitis or Meniere's Disease.

They have been used as beauty aids as they give hair and skin a beautiful appearance and prevent ageing.

At a glance

Alterative, Anti-rheumatic, Anti-oxidant, Demulcent, Diuretic, Emollient, Expectorant, Mucilant, Nutritive, Stimulant, Tonic, Anti-carcinogenic.

Cautions

I would suggest that anyone with an overactive thyroid or renal disease should discuss with a doctor or nutritionist before including this in their daily diet.

Elder [Sambucus nigra L.]

Aka: Black elder, Euroelder, common elder, bone tree Sambucus, European elder, Black-berried elder, Pipe tree, Common elder, Bore tree, Boortree, Bountry, Ellanwood, Ellhorn, German elder, Aeldrum (Anglo-Saxon), Bour Tree, (Fourteenth Century) Hylder, Hylantree, (Anglo-Saxon) Eldrum, (Low Saxon) Ellhorn, (German) Hollunder, (French) Sureau, black-berried European elder, Elder-berry, Elder-flower.

Magickal uses

The lore and magick associated with this herb is a long as its medicinal uses! It is a herb associated with the countryside and all green/hedge witches. Where ever Elder grows, it is a sacred place and should never be despoiled. If it grows on farmland then it is considered blessed and protected from harm to crops and livestock. Lore says that the farmer should allow his stock to wander free amongst the growth to encourage their protection though there are certain birds that find this plant poisonous (Elderberries are said to have serious effects on chickens: the flowers are reported to be fatal to turkeys, and according to Linnaeus, also to peacocks). Elder has potent magick and should be used wisely and with caution: an elder rod is one of control and superstition was that if you chastised a child with such a rod, it would stop them growing as the spiritual energy is such that it would never stop controlling the child. It is also suggested that the power is such that even a slight wish will manifest. This power is one of the reasons it is favoured as a magick wand.

This is an herb of the Goddess and should be treated with respect, especially when harvesting (particularly the wood or leaves). Never gather out of selfishness as it is said that the spirit of Elder will plague one as does forever. Permission to cut the wood was gained through the ritual of reciting ""Lady Ellhorn, give me some of thy wood and I will give thee some of mine when it grows in the forest" whilst on h partly bended knees, bare head and folded arms. This was to allow the spirit of the tree to vacate that part of the tree.

The blossoms are gathered and used as a fixative in incense blends as they attract and hold the oils used. They will increase the power of any ritual though remember that it should be for good intent. Use in incense for protection in general and for the blessing of a new baby. Elder also has the power to release one from enchantment or spells cast against you.

It has magical associations throughout Europe where it is widely believed that burning elder wood brings bad luck. However, as a funeral herb, it has been used for the funeral pyre or buried with the departed to bring them protection in the next life. To prevent witches from entering their houses, the people used to gather Elder leaves on the last day of April and affix them to their doors and windows, and the tree was formerly much cultivated near English cottages for protection against witches and lightning.

Elder is a traditional symbol of sorrow and death because it is the wood from which the crucifixion cross was made and the type of tree from which Judas hanged himself. Shakespeare refers to elder as a symbol of grief in Cymbeline. Much of this goes back to the intent of the person and is a metaphor for what will become of those of bad intent.

It is also associated with luck and is used at weddings to bless the union and pregnant women kiss the tree for good fortune for their child. Carrying elder is supposed to stop one from the temptation of adultery.

It has a long association with the Fae and Dryads. To see the wood spirits, spend the full moon in and Elder grove, maintaining purity of heart, though prepare yourself well to ensure you don't bring negative energies with you. Elder is also one to aid sight to see the fae especially on the Summer Solstice night. The tree is one associated closely with them. This association with spirits and also witches is referred to by Cunningham who says that they lived within the elder which is why is bled red sap when cut. Making a flute from the wood is supposed to call the spirits with the music though this is best done at midnight well away from other human habitation.

This is a brief guide as there is much more associated with the magickal working of elder including illnesses and work with Lady Ellhorn should you be interested.

Most people will know Elder as a shrub-like tree that grows commonly in waste places throughout temperate North America and Europe. It has a long history of medicinal and culinary uses with the flowers, berries, leaves, and inner bark being used. In recent times, it is the flowers that have become predominant in alternative-health cold and flu remedies though there are many other uses for this plant. Elderberry will not be looked at in any depth in this one, as that deserves a section of its own.

Elder helps to fight infections in many ways. It is diaphoretic: by stimulating the circulation and inducing a restful, easy perspiration, it cools a feverish body and at the same time, it helps the body to remove excess toxins by drawing them out through the skin. Anyone with an infection has increased waste-elimination requirements as the immune system starts destroying and removing disease-causing pathogenic organisms. The fresh flowers are diaphoretic when administered as a hot infusion. This action is less marked in the dried flowers due to the loss of much of the volatile oil component. Elderflowers also enhance the action of the kidneys and so help to remove fluid retained in the body and eliminate toxins whilst clearing heat from the body via the urinary system. This removal of water retention is of use in cases of cardiac and renal dropsies.

The flowers, berries and bark have a long-established effect in regulating bowel activity, moderating extremes of diarrhoea but also encouraging a substantial movement if that is what is needed. These actions also contribute toward a cleaning out from the body of more toxins and morbid matter. The bark is a strong purgative, which may be employed with advantage; an infusion of 30g/1oz in a pint of water being taken in wineglassful doses; in large doses it is an emetic so caution should be taken when using this remedy for this purpose.

Elder contains the compound aribino A and a mixture of alpha- and beta-amyrin palmitate that have been found to exhibit strong antihepatotoxic activity against liver damage induced by carbon tetrachloride, thus helping to maintain the body's cleansing systems.

The flowers have an expectorant action, and so help to treat lung congestion. Further, they have a direct action on of the mechanisms involved in the production of mucus so that excess catarrh is checked, toning the mucous linings of the nose and throat, increasing their resistance to infection. This, in combination with its diaphoretic and diuretic properties, help to remove the build up of chest and throat matter thus making a person feel more comfortable. From this you can see that Elderflower is appropriate for the treatment of catarrhal inflammation of the upper respiratory tract such as allergic rhinitis, candidiasis or sinusitis and, taken as a prophylactic, early in the year, strengthens the upper respiratory tract before the pollen count rises, helping those who suffer from seasonal allergies. It is very useful as eardrops when the Eustachian tube is blocked helping to reduce the mucous plugs that arise from these conditions.

This plant also has anti-microbial properties. According to laboratory research, an extract from the leaves, combined with St. John's wort and soapwort, inhibits the influenza virus and herpes simplex virus. It is recommended at the onset of eruptive diseases such as measles and chicken pox, to bring out the rash and speed recovery.

Elderflower also has anti-inflammatory properties, which is attributed to the presence of the ursolic acid. This action helps to clean away the toxins and toxic residues which provoke the inflammation. This combination of diuretic and anti-inflammatory activity helps explain its use in rheumatic and arthritic conditions. The leaves, bark and berries have a greater diuretic activity than the flowers. It is suggested for sore eyes as eyewash and is also used on chilblains in a compress. A cold, strained infusion of the flowers is a soothing remedy for inflamed eyes, and can be used as a gargle for mouth ulcers and tonsillitis or as a compress for chilblains. The leaves are used topically (as an infusion or ointment) in the treatment of bruises, sprains, wounds and burns. Recent research suggests that they may be of use in an ointment for the treatment of tumours. The Chinese prescribe elder for bone pain, swelling of the legs, muscular spasms and traumatic injuries.

Elderflowers have a direct effect on the nervous system inducing relaxation of all visceral functions; Elderflowers have a long history of use as a relaxant, soothing nerves, allaying anxiety and lifting depression. A hot infusion at nighttime will help induce a restful sleep and is particularly useful for restless or irritable children at the onset of infections.

Elder has more everyday uses as well. Elderflowers soaked in lemon juice and mixed with sugar and water make a delicious summer drink. The flowers and berries are widely used to make wines, cordials, desserts, jams and chutneys, and elderflower juice or wine is often taken in rural areas as a spring tonic.

The flowers have also been used as dye and elderflower water was used in the 18th century to whiten the skin and remove freckles. Elder produces green, violet and black dyes.

An infusion of the leaves is quite an effective insecticide. Bruised leaves, worn in the hat or rubbed on the face, prevent flies settling on the person. An infusion of the leaves is a good repellent for mosquitoes, midges and other troublesome flies. Gather a few fresh leaves from the elder, tear them from their stalks and place them in a jug, pouring boiling water on them and covering them at once, leaving for a few hours. When the infusion is cold, it is ready. Strain and keep in a bottle though the fresh infusion is more powerful than one that been made a while. The leaves are said to be valued by the farmer for driving mice away from granaries and moles from their usual haunts.

The flowers are gathered in spring and early summer; and should be dried rapidly in the shade. The berries are collected in August and September. The bark should be taken from young branches in early spring, before the leaves appear.

Flowers: diaphoretic, anticatarrhal, expectorant, circulatory stimulant, diuretic, topically anti-inflammatory.

Leaves: externally as an emollient and vulnerary; internally as a purgative, expectorant, diuretic and diaphoretic.

Constituents

v Flowers: up to 3% flavonoids (including rutin, isoquercitrine and kaempherol), phenolic acids, triterpenes, triterpene acid, sterols, the hydrocyanic glycoside sambunigrine, traces of semi-solid yellow volatile oil, mucilage and tannins, sugar, 8-9% minerals (especially potassium), small quantity of essential oil (containing palmitic, linoleic and linolenic acids).

v Berries: Invert sugar, fruit acids, pectin, tannin, vitamin C, vitamin A, bioflavonoids, anthrocyanic pigments, traces of essential oil.

v Leaves: triterpenes, cyanogenetic glycosides (sambunigrin), flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), fats, fatty acids, sugars, alkanes, tannins, vitamins, resins.

v Bark: phytohaemagglutinins, alkaloid (sambucine), resin, viburnic acid, volatile oil, fat, wax, chlorophyll, tannic acid, gum, starch, pectin.

Cautions

v The bark should not be used in pregnancy, as it is a strong purgative while the unripe berries, young bark and leaves contain the toxic glycoside d-sambunigrin, which can produce hydrocyanic acid.

v The leaves, root, and bark can cause nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, dizziness, tachycardia and convulsions.

v Some people have reported dizziness and even stupor when taking elder as a laxative.

The fresh root of American Elder (S.Canadensis) has been found extremely poisonous, producing death in children within a short time after being eaten with symptoms very similar to those of poisoning by Hemlock (Conium).

Magickal Uses: This herb is used for mental and psychic powers. Drink as a tea to clear the mind and aid memory. An infusion applied, as a compress, to the eyelids will assist in clairvoyant vision those this is an accumulative thing. Carry eyebright to increase your psychic powers or to see the truth in a situation! It is a great herb to use when you are stuck in a negative way of thinking and need to change the direction of your energy. Using this herb will show you where growth and strength can result in better times ahead and by putting difficult times into perspective, one can see that in the greater scheme of things, the trial you are facing can be reduced to a minor problem in the scheme of your life. Use this herb in rituals for others that want to bring about change in their lives and to be able to help themselves.

Health Uses: You may have wondered why I have started to include the Latin names for the herbs you have in the newsletter. I have found during the research to fins as much information that I can for, that there is often more than one plant that goes under the same name. In the case of Eyebright, Lobelia inflata Campanulaceae also goes under this name. So make sure you double check which herb your supplier is giving you when using it for a particular purpose.

Eyebright is another herb that has the herbal community divided as to its uses so I will try to give you all the facts and you can decide for yourself. It has properties as an astringent, expectorant, anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and decongestant. Predominantly, eyebright is associated with the eyes and has been used for centuries as eyewash for inflamed or infected eyes. The reason for this? The petals look bloodshot! The logic for this comes from the Doctrine of Signatures, which states that herbs show their proper use by their appearance. Despite its historical applications, there is a 50% recommendation that it should not be used for Conjunctivitis or other diseases of the eye with Germany’s Commission E backing this up. It is suggested that Eyebright can cause tearing of the eyes, itching, redness and other inflammatory symptoms though this is in cases where higher doses have been used. This maybe due to the astringent properties and volatile oils which are considered to make up its antibacterial properties. These recommendations though seem to come from natural remedy companies that have a strong affiliation with conventional medicine. The herbal and homeopathic community on the other hand appear to remain strong supporters of this herb and continue to use it as the remedy of choice for inflammatory eye disease and can be readily purchased combined with Goldenseal. It appears that the main concern with eyebright is that there have been no scientific studies done on this herb to prove it effective or ineffective resulting in speculative conclusion. Though the following statement would appear a prudent one to consider “the instillation or application of any non-sterile solution to the eye involves considerable risk of potential infection and should never be advocated or condoned. The practice is particularly hazardous if the non-sterile, homemade lotion contains a large number of principles of unknown safety or efficacy”, a statement that is repeated on several herbal information sites (not herbalist or homeopathic sites). However, you could apply this viewpoint to any treatment, irrelevant of whether it be conventional or alternative prescription since once the tube of cream or lotion is opened then it cannot be deemed sterile any longer!!

Eyebright also works well to calm over-sensitivity to light. Used as an external compress in conjunction with internal use. Used internally, it is a powerful anti-catarrhal, helping to alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of nasal catarrh, sinusitis, and other congestive conditions, hayfever and other allergies. It is specific for congestive conditions of the eyes with profuse watery discharge and inflammation and discharges from the nose. The astringent qualities found in eyebright form a protective layer on the mucous membranes of the eyes and so reduce inflammation. This is especially beneficial for infections such as conjunctivitis. Its ability to counter mucus means that eyebright is often used for infectious and allergic conditions affecting the eyes, middle ear, sinuses, and nasal passages, helpful to stop symptoms such as streaming eyes. Although eyebright counters liquid mucus, it should be used guardedly for dry and stuffy congestion, which tends to be made worse by the plant's astringency. The dried herb is an ingredient in British Herbal Tobacco, which is smoked most usefully for chronic bronchial colds. Eyebright tea is also sometimes taken internally to treat jaundice, respiratory infections, and memory loss. This is another reason that it to helps maintain good vision and eye health by supporting the liver and other organs in such a way as to cleanse the blood supply to the eyes. Eyebright is also considered to be a bitter and tonic herb, suggesting that it stimulates digestive enzymes and also encourages appetite whilst as a tonic; this herb restores, nourishes and supports the entire body.

Most modem herbalists recommend a lotion or infusion prepared from the entire over ground portion of the plant for conjunctivitis and other eye irritations. An infusion is made by adding one teaspoonful of the herb to a cup of boiling water for 30 minutes. This is strained and used as an eye lotion. Compresses soaked in the lotion when cold can be applied to the eyes. Some herbalists recommend combining Eyebright with Fennel in equal parts for eye conditions. Tinctures and fluid extracts are available. The homoeopathic tincture made from the fresh flowering plant is used for conjunctivitis and other eye infections:

2 g fresh or dried eyebright
1 cup (250 ml) spirits (gin, brandy)
In a mixing bowl, shred the plant in the alcohol. Put the mixture in a jar; shake every 2 or 3 days.

A few drops of the tincture are mixed with 2 fl OZ (56 ml) Rose water and used as a lotion. When there is much pain, it is considered desirable to use a warm infusion rather more frequently for inflamed eyes till the pain is removed. Used internally, this solution soothes seasonal allergies, catarrhs, and the common cold.

It contains the glycoside, aucuboside, aucubin, caffeic and ferulic acids, sterols, choline and a volatile oil. Eyebright also contains tannins that are beneficial for reducing inflammation. Copper, Iodine, Iron, Silicon, Vitamins A, B, B-complex, C, D, E and Zinc

There are no actual contra-indications known at this time. However using a non-sterile lotion or eyewash can be hazardous and many physicians recommend against this. What is known is that large amounts may produce swelling of the eyelids, changes in vision, confusion, tears, sneezing, toothache, cough, difficulty sleeping, sweating, difficulty in seeing in bright light, weakness, and stomach upset. Eyebright may antagonize anti-diarrhoeal drugs and it can interfere with the absorption of iron and minerals when taken internally. Avoid topical use in conjunction with the Acne medication tretinoin (retinoic acid, Vitamin A acid). Eyebright may potentiate the antibiotic action with Echinacea. Milk or cream eliminates the interaction. Safety in young children, pregnant or nursing women, or those with severe liver or kidney disease has not been established.

It would appear that this is a safe herb to use providing that commonsense is used when making compresses or eyewashes: doses are stuck to and old lotion is discarded. If any problems occur when using Eyebright then discontinue. My personal view having used this for hayfever and as part of a decongestion mix is that it is a valuable herb that has experiential evidence to support its use for simple conditions though severe eye problems should be seen by your practitioner or family doctor.

Feverfew

Magickal Uses: This is a herb of protection. Planted round dwellings, it is said to purify the atmosphere and ward off disease. Carry it with you to prevent illness and prevent accidents. There is a legend about feverfew that this herb saved the life of a person who fell off the famous temple in ancient Greece, the Parthenon. Hence, the name parthenium.

Health Uses: The use of Feverfew goes back many centuries. Old-fashioned Feverfew is usually found growing wild in or near old country garden. It would have made up part of the medicinal or kitchen garden. The ancient magi ordered, "Feverfew to be pulled from the ground with the left hand, and the fevered patient's name must be spoken forth, and the herbalist must not look behind him." The properties for which feverfew is now back favour for have been noted during the writing of famous herbalists: The Greek herbalist Dioscorides is believed to have treated arthritis with this herb. In 1649, Culpepper recommended feverfew for headaches and to strengthen women's wombs (emmanagogue). Feverfew's feathery and aromatic leaves have long been used medicinally to improve childbirth, promote menstruation, induce abortions, relieve rheumatic pain, and treat severe headaches. However, the bastardisation of its original name was what caused it to be ignored as an herb for a long time. Feverfew is a corruption of the name "featherfoil." Featherfoil became featherfew and ultimately feverfew. This name then led to a widespread belief among herbalists that feverfew could lower fevers. When it was found that it didn’t work as an antipyretic, it was deemed a useless herb. In fact, it wasn’t until the 1970's that it was re-discovered by the general populous to have the effect of curing migraines although it had still be used as a country cure. Considerable evidence has been obtained to confirm feverfew's effectiveness in reducing the frequency and severity of migraine attacks by using whole leaf preparations. In 1985, it was reported that extracts of feverfew inhibited the release of 2 inflammatory substances: serotonin from platelets and prostaglandin from white blood cells. Both are thought to contribute to the onset of migraine attacks and perhaps even to play a role in rheumatoid arthritis. Migraine sufferers may have to wait 6 to 8 weeks to notice improvement. About 80% of all cases have found feverfew a preventive in migraine headaches. For this purpose, it is taken daily. Two trials that used whole feverfew leaf found it effective, but two others that used feverfew extract failed to show benefit. It is important to remember that serious diseases may occasionally first present themselves as migraine-type headaches. For this reason, proper medical diagnosis is essential if you suddenly start having migraines without a previous history, or if the pattern of your migraines changes significantly. As stated, Feverfew is sometimes recommended for various forms of arthritis but there have been no clinical trial to provide evidence that it is effective. However, like a lot of the daisy family, it does have carminative and mild anti-inflammatory properties. It is used as a warm infusion to treat hysteria and alcoholism with delirium tremens, nervousness and lowness of spirits, and is a general tonic. If you wish to grow your own for use, then harvest just after flowering.

Feverfew seems absolutely bug-proof, keeping pests from plants close by. Some people plant in their roses or around the garden for pest control. The yellow-green ferny foliage, masses of small, white, daisy-like flowers, are decorative and they self-sow readily. However, if you want bees in your garden, avoid it: Bees find the odour and taste of feverfew highly repulsive.

Cautions: Do not use for migraine resulting from a weak, deficiency condition: seek medical advice first. It may cause dermatitis or allergic reactions. Some people have developed mouth ulcers while taking feverfew, as it is such a bitter herb. Usually this condition comes from the fresh leaves: try sautéing the leaves first or discontinue use. Patients taking blood-thinning drugs should avoid taking feverfew because it can affect the clotting times of the blood. Feverfew is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to other plants in the daisy family. Minor side effects include gastrointestinal upset and nervousness. Feverfew is not recommended during pregnancy or lactation and should not be used by children under the age of two years. Feverfew might also increase the risk of stomach problems if combined with anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin.

Magickal Uses: Eating ginger before performing any spell or ritual will increase its power and effectiveness since you have been "heated" up by the ginger. In particular, for love spells this is effective. Grow whole ginger roots or sprinkle powder into pockets and purses to attract money. Use ginger in success spells or to ensure the success of a spell. Dobu Islanders chew ginger and spit it at the seat of an illness to cure it. They also do this at an incoming storm whilst at sea to halt it. Health wise, wear ginger as an amulet or take as a daily tonic to maintain and strengthen your health and to protect the wearer. Also by growing ginger, by the manner in which it flourishes governs the health of the gardener.

Health Uses: Ginger is well known for its warming addition to foods. It has also been used for centuries in herbal medicine and home remedies. Following this, much research has been done into this herb to the extent that it is suggested that it rivals garlic in its important health uses! Gingerols (some of the ginger's active ingredients) demonstrate a number of diverse properties such as antipyretic, analgesic, antitussive, cardiotonic, and sedative activities. This herb also possesses hypoglycemic and positive cardiac inotropic activities (stimulates). Ginger can help to improve appetite and digestion, increase bile and reduce gastric secretions.

It is well known for its use with nausea. This is because of its ability to stimulate vasomotor and respiratory centres, hence its usefulness in treatment of disequilibrium. This has been investigated further: powdered ginger root was compared to standard drugs used in combating postoperative nausea and vomiting which showed that the requirement for postoperative anti-emetics was lower in those patients receiving ginger and it has been concluded that Ginger is an effective and promising prophylactic anti-emetic in both in-patient and day case surgery. It has also been used to control the nausea side effect of certain drugs. When considering that most medications have nausea and vomiting or gastric disturbances listed as common side effects, it would appear that ginger has a strong role to play to alleviate these symptoms when undergoing intensive drug therapies. The possibility of side effects such as gastric emptying after taking ginger as an anti-emetic has also been investigated and it was found that ginger ingestion had no effect on gastric emptying. Another aspect of the vasomotor effect studied was that of motion sickness/vertigo and it was found that ginger was significantly more effective in reducing motion sickness than the antihistamine dimenhydrinate and a placebo which was reported in the British medical journal The Lancet whilst a Danish trial of sea cadets found that ginger reduced the incidence of seas sickness in heavy sea conditions. This is also as a result of the direct action of ginger's active components on the gastric system. Another pertinent area when considering nausea and vomiting that should be addressed is the use of Ginger during pregnancy which up until recently has always been a big no-no though this was pretty much a result of there being only anecdotal rather than clinical results as to its effects and safety. The German Commission E still contra-indicates its use during pregnancy. However, Clinical studies in numerous other countries have concluded that Ginger is effective for relieving the severity of nausea and vomiting of pregnancy with no adverse effect on child or mother. It is perfectly safe! One trial found that relief was "significantly greater" with oral ginger powder capsule treatment. (Vutyavanich T, Kraisarin T, Ruangsri R. Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand; Fischer-Rasmussen W, Kjaer SK, Dahl C, Asping U Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Denmark. 1991; Women’s and Children’s Hospital and Adelaide University Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, 2000). Based on these results, it is now suggested that you take ginger under practitioner supervision though it is perfectly safe to do so. In addition to the above when considering the digestive system, it is well documented that Ginger has many other benefits to this area. Chinese medicine has incorporated ginger in remedies for the digestive system for centuries and it is regularly used as a calmative for stomach upsets. Other digestive benefits from ginger are the natural enzyme action on protein digestion (very important addition for those persons who insist on doing the Atkin’s diet), stimulation of digestion, pro-biotic support of the natural gut flora, anti-diarrhoeal properties and liver protection.

Research at the University of Sydney and also in Denmark have found that Ginger also reduces pain and inflammation. Initial studies have shown that the gingerols act on the vanilloid receptors that react to heat and acidity and so would be used for conditions and injuries of this nature. At present, the Herbal Medicine Research and Education Centre (HMREC) are investigating how Ginger also helps to control inflammation. They have found that these gingerols affect the pain pathways directly but also relieves the inflammation which in itself causes pain by inhibiting the enzyme cyclooxygenase (or COX for short). It has two forms: COX-1, which is always present in the body, and COX-2, which is produced during inflammation. Gingerols work like the older anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, which inhibit both COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is important for platelet aggregation (clumping), so newer drugs that don't inhibit COX-1 don't have the benefit of a 'blood thinning' effect. People on the newer drugs who have certain heart conditions are usually given aspirin as well. Gingerols prevent the aggregation of platelets, so as well as reducing inflammation, they can help to thin the blood. And unlike aspirin, he says, ginger has a calming effect on the intestinal tract. (Professor Roufogalis, HMREC). Further, Gingerols are potent inhibitors of the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which, in an oversupply situation will cause inflammation. Ginger treatments have been found to be useful in treatment of migraine, where it is proposed that pain relief from ginger may occur without any of the side effects that occur with standard treatments. Ginger also contains antioxidant properties that surpasses the commercial antioxidant preservatives BHA and BHT, possessing a free radical-inhibiting index even greater than these in several trials. In one study, 21 compounds (including gingerol related compounds) were isolated from ginger and it was determined that most of the isolated compounds exhibited stronger antioxidative effect than alpha-tocopherol (vitamin E) which is one of the best known antioxidisers! Ginger has been found to inhibit lipid peroxidation in rat liver microcosms and successfully scavenge superoxide anions. We can also see from the above that there is benefits to be hard regarding the cardiac system. As stated, Ginger has been found to be beneficial in reducing platelet aggregation which leads to coronary artery disease, while having no effect on blood lipids or blood sugar. Healthy people, patients with C.A.D.(coronary artery disease) and non-insulin dependent diabetes sufferers were all the subjects of an Indian study which found that a 10g single dose of powdered ginger, significantly reduced platelet aggregation in C.A.D. patients. Trials on rats found also that ginger lowered cholesterol levels significantly. It has also been reported that ginger inhibits the biosynthesis of cholesterol in rat liver. From this it has been suggested that ginger should be in everyones daily supplement routine to reduce the risk of developing CAD. This is not to say that large amounts should be consumed as there is caution given to central nervous system depression, cardiac arrythmias and bleeding disorders in cases of large over doses. (So don’t overdose on it then!!). Joking aside, caution should be taken and professional advise sought before consuming ginger as a remedy (rather than the small amounts in cooking which is fine) if already on anti-coagulant therapy such as warfarin or heparin and if you are using ginger for as a treatment and are going in for an operation, then you should mention this to your doctor since there is a possible increased risk of bleeding from ginger’s anti-platelet aggregation and reduced clot formation. When also considering possible side effects and interactions, there are several theoretical proposals though these are theoretical and since the scientific community is persistently demanding proof before condoning the use of herbs, I would like to suggest that we would like to see clear results for their theoretical contra-indications. However, you can make your mind up and consider the following:

So that is the list of possible draw back of ginger. Well there is more good news about ginger! Researchers have found that extracts of ginger possess anti-skin tumour effects when placed directly on the skin of mice though there is some question of the possibility of mutagenic reports though these have not been substantiated. However, it has been found that gingerol inhibits the tumour promoter Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) activation. Ginger has been shown to be effective against the growth of both Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria including Escherichia Coli, Proteus vulgaris, Salmonella typhimurium, Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus viridans. A 1990 Japanese study showed that the gingerol and shogaol components of ginger could kill Anisakis larvae. Anisakis being one of the principle parasites which find hosts in millions of people around the globe. Considering that we now have Super Bugs that no longer respond to many of the synthetic antibiotics, it would seem that Ginger has an important anti-microbial role to play as well!

So make up your own mind about ginger. The clinical studies are encouragingly positive in their findings! The only thing I would suggest is moderation and if you have an on going medical condition that you consult your physician and herbal practitioner before starting a course of ginger.

AKA: Yellow Root, Eye Root, Indian turmeric, Jaundice Root, Eye Balm, Ground Raspberry, Indian Dye, Ohio Curcuma, Orange Root, Tumeric Root, Yellow Eye, Yellow Indian Paint, Yellow Paint Root, Yellow Puccoon. Hidrastis, Hydrastis, Orange Root, Warnera, Wild Curcuma.

Most sites will inform you that this herb was used by the Iroquois and Cherokee American tribes as an effective medicine and introduced it to Western man. The underground parts were harvested and used to treat a variety of infections and conditions. Over time, it came to be referred to as goldenseal because the cuplike scars on its bright yellow rhizomes resembled the wax seals then used to close envelopes and certify documents. Not only was it used as a medicinal herb, but also for a dye for clothing, painting and face adornment.

Like all of nature's gifts, man ignored the number one rule about over harvesting and it nearly became extinct. According to the World Wildlife Federation Goldenseal is 5^th in the top 10 most endangered species (www.extravalue.com). Fortunately, it is now grown commercially and the wild species left alone though deforestation could still threaten it.

So what makes this herb so powerful? According to most sources, the herb's active medicinal compounds are the alkaloids berberine and hydrastine and canadine. Research in Canada in the late 1960s showed that hydrastine constricts the blood vessels and stimulates the autonomic nervous system. It is deemed to be both astringent and a haemostat; Berberine is bitter, antibacterial, and amoebicidal, immune system stimulating and has anti-cancer properties. It also has a sedative action on the central nervous system; Research shows that the alkaloid canadine stimulates the muscles of the uterus. The alkaloids are responsible for the herb's notably bitter taste. Eleven countries (but not the United States) now officially recognize berberine and hydrastine as medicines. (www.nutrimart.com; www.extravalue.com; http://www.herbs2000.com).

From the above, it would seem that this herb has a lot to offer. The following will look at how folklore and herbal use combine. Goldenseal has long been valued for its ability to soothe inflamed or infected mucous membranes. This is of value to many of the body's systems and organs. It's even being explored as a treatment for liver disorders.

Predominantly, it would seem to help to stop infections as an anti-microbial and also by reducing the production of mucus, which forms the perfect medium for bugs to develop in. Goldenseal is said to be effective against bacteria, fungi, viruses and protozoa (www.nutrimart.com). Herbalists propose that can be used for a variety of conditions that normally would be treated with antibiotics. The natural path would not rob the body of the good bacteria we need plus reduce the side effects experienced with synthetic drugs. If you have any type of bacterial or parasitic infection, goldenseal is probable the best herb you can use. It fights bronchial and sinus infections, strep throat, urinary infections, and skin, eye, and gum infections. When used together with Echinacea, the pair not only provides the benefits mentioned, but also strengthening the immune system and increasing the wide range of harmful micro-organisms. For this reason, this combination is considered when taken internally and/or topically to stop minor wounds from becoming infected. However, there are some infections that need something stronger and you may need antibiotics so if an infection lasts more than a week and is not improving, go see your doctor!

As previously mentioned, Goldenseal's properties, as both an anti-infective and mucous membrane anti-inflammatory may be helpful in easing sinusitis symptoms and reducing the period of sickness. It is particularly effective when used in the form of a warm sinus irrigating solution that loosens and washes away the thickened, infected mucus that can cling to the walls of the sinus cavities (www.wholefoods.com).

As an anti-fungal, it is good for helping the body with those post antibiotic invasions such as Candida albicans either intestinally or vaginally. A goldenseal douche may be useful for vaginal yeast infections. There are also goldenseal vaginal suppositories commercially available.

Goldenseal, taken internally and applied topically, may be valuable in fighting certain viral skin ailments. This includes warts (both genital and nongenital), which are caused by the human papilloma virus, and cold sores, genital herpes and shingles, which are caused by the herpes virus. Further, it considered to be of use in the treatment of viral canker sores.

Historically, goldenseal has been used for a variety of eye infections, including conjunctivitis (pinkeye). The eye's mucous membranes respond particularly well to an eyewash made of cooled goldenseal tea. The Indian Journal of Ophthalmology for March 1983 reported that the berberine found in goldenseal root is excellent for treating inflammations of the cornea and iris brought on by the herpes simplex virus (www.herbs2000.com). However, I would have to offer caution here. A herpes infection of the eye can lead to scarring and other problems so consult your doctor if you have this condition.

Its anti-inflammatory properties have been suggested for use when one has encountered poison ivy!

The combination of anti-infective, astringent, and anti-inflammatory has been drawn on in the treatment of diarrhoea. Research (test tube studies) indicates that goldenseal is effective for acute infectious diarrhoea caused by a variety of organisms including Escherichia coli, Giardia and Salmonella typhi as well as other disease-causing organisms, such as Chlamydia, and Entamoeba histolytica (www.wholefoods.com; www.truestarhealth.com). Consult your doctor if diarrhoea is severe or persists, however, because it can cause serious complications, such as dehydration, if improperly treated. But it doesn't stop there with the gastro-intestinal tract. The bitters enhance liver function, and stimulate the appetite and improve digestion as well as to treat ulcers.

It's thought that an impaired immune system may be partially responsible for chronic fatigue syndrome. Rotating goldenseal with other immune-boosting herbs (Echinacea, pau d'arco and astragalus) may be helpful in bolstering the body's immune system and controlling this often disabling condition. Some sources even suggest its use in A.I.D.S. patients.

Goldenseal stimulates involuntary muscles through an oxytocic effect in the intestinal tract and uterus. The plant has been used during childbirth when the labour is protracted. On its own it known to be an abortifacient so should be avoided in pregnancy! It also is a stimulant to the uterine muscles, contracts the blood vessels and inhibits excessive bleeding and so has been used for dysmenorrhoea and menorrhagia.

Traditional Chinese healers give goldenseal (berberine, specifically) to cancer patients whose immune systems are weakened as a result of chemotherapy treatments.

alkaloids (Hydrastine, Berberine, Canadine, Berber-astine), resin, calcium, iron, manganese, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, B-complex, albumin, biotin, chlorine, choline, chologenic acid, inositol, lignin, PABA, phosphorous, potassium.

• To counteract the bitter taste of goldenseal tincture or tea, try sweetening it with honey.

• When making an eyewash, take extra care to use sterile tools and containers, and discard any extra solution at the end of each day.

• To avoid irritating or even ulcerating the skin, limit your application of topical doses to recommended amounts.

This table, which can be found at www.wholehealthmd.com, may serve as a guideline for you but as with all things. Please read the cautions section and consult your practitioner and/or doctor if you have a chronic condition.

Ailments	Dosage
Athlete's Foot	Apply powder to affected areas twice a day.
Burns	Apply cream to raw and weeping areas to prevent infection.
Candida Overgrowth Syndrome	250-500 mg standardized extract in capsule form OR 1 tsp. liquid extract 3 times a day
Canker Sores	Dab liquid extract directly on the sores 3 times a day, using a cotton-tipped swab.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome	125 mg standardized extract twice a day. Alternate with Echinacea, astragalus, and pau d'arco in a 3-week rotation for maximum benefit.
Cold Sores	125 mg standardized extract (along with 200 mg Echinacea) 4 times a day
Colds	125 mg standardized extract (along with 200 mg Echinacea) 5 times a day for 5 days.
Flu	250-500 mg of standardized extract or 1 tsp. liquid extract 3 times a day
Nausea and Vomiting	125 mg standardized extract every 4 hours as needed.
Shingles	125 mg standardized extract (along with 200 mg Echinacea) 4 times a day during the acute phase only.
Sinusitis	1 tsp. liquid extract per cup of saline solution. Use a neti pot or fill the tank of a WaterPik and use with a special sinus irrigating attachment, twice a day.
Urinary Tract Infections	Drink several cups tea daily.
Warts	Apply a few drops liquid extract to the wart 3 times a day. Or apply an extract-dampened compress overnight until wart heals.
Yeast Infection (Vaginal)	Douche twice a day for no more than 7 days. Prepare each douche with 2 cups lukewarm tea.

v Don't use goldenseal for more than three weeks at a time; wait two weeks, at least, before taking it again. This seems to be the general rule though one site suggested 3 months. However, there is a link with habitual constipation and over-use of this herb.

v In humans, goldenseal may cause convulsions and irritation of the mouth, throat, and stomach when taken orally in toxic doses. At doses of 2-3 gr. goldenseal can lower heart beat, may irritate the mucous membranes in the mouth and result in diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and at higher doses it can be paralysing to the Central Nervous System (CNS) (www.nutrimart.com). Paresthaesia, paralysis, respiratory failure, and death may follow.

v While markedly improving cardiac performance in patients with heart conditions, berberine also induces ventricular tachycardia in some subjects.

v Berberine had an anaesthetic effect when injected subcutaneously (s.c.). Both berberine and hydrastine produced parasympatholytic and anaesthetic effects when applied to the eyes.

v Avoid taking the herb if you have heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes or glaucoma.

v People suffering from lupus or multiple sclerosis should also avoid goldenseal. (www.anyvitamins.com)

v Do not use during pregnancy since Berberine stimulates the uterus. May induce abortion at high doses.

AKA: Centella, Marsh Pennywort, Indian Pennywort, Water Pennywort, Hydrocotyle, Brahmi (Sanskrit), Luei Gong Gen (Chinese) Chi-hsing, Pai Kuo, Daun Kaki Kuda, Gagan-gagan, Pegaga, Pegaga Tekukur, Pegaga Ular, Pegagan, Penggaga, Thick-leaved Pennywort, White Rot.

Magickal Uses: It is used in meditation. Burn in incenses prior to but not during meditation otherwise you may fall asleep and awaken disorientated!!

Health Uses: Gotu Kola is revered as one of the most spiritual and rejuvenating herbs in Ayurveda especially in the improvement of meditation and for revitalizing the nerve and brain cells. Specifically, it assists the development of the crown chakra, whilst balancing the right and left hemispheres of the brain, which the leaf is said to resemble. Gotu Kola is used widely in traditional Eastern health care for a variety of conditions. It is said to fortify the immune system, both cleansing and feeding it as a glandular tonic and anti-fatigue, and to strengthen the adrenals (www.kcweb.com..; www.biotrek.com..). It's also a blood purifier, neutralizing blood acids. Traditional Chinese medicinal believed Gotu Kola provided longevity, and thus called it the "fountain of youth" herb in China. Before I continue with the aspects of care, the constituents will be discussed as this will help you to understand how this herb works.

Constituents

Gotu Kola is often confused with Kola nut. Because of this, it has been assumed that the rejuvenating properties of Gotu Kola are due to the stimulating effects of caffeine contained in Kola nut. There is no relation and Gotu contains no caffeine. There are three main chemical constituents in Gotu Kola. The first is asiaticoside, which is a triterpene glycoside and classified as an antibiotic and to assist in healing as discussed. The second constituent is the chemicals brahmoside and brahminoside, which are saponin glycosides which have diuretic properties and are sedative in higher doses. Finally, there is madecassoside, a glycoside that is a strong anti-inflammatory agent (www.kcweb.com). The plant is also a source of Vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, C, E, G, K, magnesium, madecassic acid, asparate, glutamate, serine, threonine, alanine, lysine, histidine, magnesium, calcium and sodium.

As mentioned, it is known as a tonic for purification of blood. For centuries, it was prescribed for the treatment of liver and kidney problems, and is presently used as an alternative treatment for people suffering from hepatitis as well as alcoholic liver disease. It is used to detoxifying the body; it assists with destroying toxic accumulation in the brain as well as the nerves, while it helps to clear the body from heavy metals as well as drugs, including recreational drugs (www.anyvitamins.com).

Gotu Kola contains triterpenoids, compounds that have been shown to aid in wound healing. For example, animal studies indicate that triterpenoids strengthen the skin, increase the concentration of antioxidants in wounds, and restore inflamed tissues by increasing blood supply. One of its constituents, Asiaticoside, was found to have wound healing properties and used during World War II. It is used to maintain healthy skin and in the treatment of skin inflammations. Gotu Kola is known to be active at various stages of tissue development, including keratinization (the process of replacing skin after sores or ulcers), the synthesis of collagen (the first step in tissue repair), the stimulation of hair and nail growth, and support for the repair of cartilage. It has been shown to decrease healing time and reduce scar tissue formation. (http://www.kcweb.com/herb/Gotu.htm; www.healthandage.com.). In a study published in Annals of Plastic Surgery, Gotu Kola accelerates healing of second and third degree burns and minimizes scarring. Other studies show the herb accelerates the healing of skin grafts and episiotomy following vaginal delivery of a newborn, and treatment of external fistulas (a tear at or near the anus). In fact, in one study reported in a French medical journal in 1966, women treated with Gotu Kola after childbirth healed more rapidly than those given standard treatment (www.biotrek.com; www.healthandage.com). Gotu Kola cream can help relieve the painful scaly red welts of psoriasis. From this it can be seen that it stimulates the regeneration of skin cells and underlying connective tissue. This property is cashed in on by the pharmaceutical world who often use it as an active ingredient in tonics, oral slimming formulas, body-beautiful preparations, body firming products, wound healing, anti-aging skin care products with independent studies identifying the topical effectiveness of this herb in the treatment of stretch marks (www.anyvitamins.com).

Further, Asiaticoside is among the most promising treatments for leprosy. The effectiveness in killing the leprosy bacteria is thought due to its dissolving the waxy, protective substance around the bacteria so allowing treatment for this disease (www.biotrek.com; www.viable-herbal.com; www.anyvitamins.com).

Cerebral Effects

From the constituents, we know that Gotu Kola has sedative/calming properties which make it ideal in the treatment of anxiety states and facilitating a calm state for yoga and meditative practices. More commonly it is used as a tonic to help rebuild energy reserves, improve memory/concentration and treat fatigue, both mental and physical. Gotu Kola has been referred to as "food for the brain" (www.kcweb.com). One source (www.anyvitamins.com) suggested that this is due to the herb's ability to increase blood sugar levels by assisting with the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose as well the B vitamins which are required for a normal nervous system functioning though no mention of problems with hypoglycaemia in diabetics was mentioned. .

The calming effect and support of the central nervous system make it beneficial in the treatment of children with A.D.D. because it has a stimulating effect on the brain that increases one's ability to focus while having a soothing and relaxing effect on an overactive nervous system (www.kcweb.com). In one study, it improved the general ability and behaviour patterns of mentally handicapped children: 30 developmentally disabled children were found to have significantly better concentration and attention after taking Gotu Kola for 12 weeks..." (www.nutritional-supplement-info.com; www.biotrek.com). However, one source stated that, "There is currently no information in the scientific literature about the use of Gotu Kola for children. Therefore, it is not recommended for those under 18 years old." (www.healthandage.com)

It is the Triterpenoids that have been shown to soothe anxiety and boost mental function in mice. A recent study found that people who took Gotu Kola were less likely to be startled by a novel noise (a potential indicator of anxiety) than those who took placebo. Although the results of this study are somewhat promising, the dose used in this study was extremely high, making it difficult to draw any conclusions about how Gotu Kola might be used by people with anxiety (www.healthandage.com)

More recently, a new study conducted in Korea shows that components in Gotu Kola show potential for treating Alzheimer's disease (www.mazatecgarden.com)

It is suggested as a treatment for high blood pressure and as a mild diuretic. The site, www.healthandage.com cited a study of people with heart disease and high blood pressure: those who took Abana (an Ayurvedic herbal mixture containing Gotu Kola) experienced a significant reduction in diastolic blood pressure (pressure on blood vessels when the heart is at rest) compared to those who took placebo. The site cautioned though that further studies are needed to determine whether Gotu Kola alone, some other herb in the Ayurvedic mixture, or the particular combination of all the herbs in the remedy is responsible for the beneficial effect. However, recent studies indicate that Gotu Kola has a positive effect on the circulatory system by improving the flow of blood throughout the body by strengthening the veins and capillaries. When blood vessels lose their elasticity, blood pools in the legs and fluid leaks out of the blood vessels, causing the legs to swell (venous insufficiency). In a study of 94 people with venous insufficiency, those who took Gotu Kola reported a significant improvement in symptoms compared to those who took placebo. In another study of people with varicose veins, ultrasound examination revealed improvements in the vascular tone of those who took Gotu Kola (www.kcweb.com; www.healthandage.com; www.viable-herbal.com). For varicose veins researchers have found that ginkgo and Gotu Kola are more effective when used together and numerous studies have shown them to be more effective and better tolerated than Tribenoside ^TM, the standard drug used for this purpose (www.biotrek.com). Gotu Kola has been shown to be particularly useful for people who are inactive or confined to bed due to illness. The herb has been used successfully to treat phlebitis (inflammation of the veins) as well as leg cramps, swelling of the legs, and "heaviness" or tingling in the legs. In modern health care it has been used for venous insufficiency, localized inflammation and infection, and post-surgery recovery (www.kcweb.com; www.healthandage.com; www.viable-herbal.com).

Recent studies (1995) demonstrated that Gotu Kola destroyed cultured tumor cells in the laboratory setting (in vitro) and has been used in alternative health to treat tumours and cancerous growths without suppressing the auto immune system or creating toxic wastes within the body (www.kcweb.com; www.anyvitamins.com). However as seen in the cautions section, there is an association of Asiaticoside with the development of tumours in mice though this has not been absolutely proven.

It is also taken for fertility and as a tonic for poor digestion and rheumatism. Fresh leaves are given to children for dysentery (www.biotrek.com)

The plant is also thought helpful for fevers, abdominal disorders, asthma and bronchitis.

Alterative, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, diuretic, febrifuge, glandular tonic, nervine, rejuvenative, and peripheral vasodilator.

Cautions

v Do not use for more than 6 weeks is not recommended. You should take a 2-week break before taking the herb again.

v Asiaticoside, a major component of Gotu Kola, has also been associated with tumour growth in mice. Though more studies are needed, it is wise for anyone with a history of precancerous or cancerous skin lesions, such as squamous cell, basal cell skin cancer, or melanoma, to refrain from taking this herb (www.healthandage.com).

v Side effects are rare but may include skin allergy and burning sensations (with external use), headache, stomach upset, nausea, dizziness, and extreme drowsiness. These side effects tend to occur with high doses of Gotu Kola.

v Pregnant women should not take Gotu Kola because it may cause spontaneous abortion. There is little or no information regarding the safety of this herb during breastfeeding, so nursing mothers should refrain from taking this herb.

v Since high doses of Gotu Kola can cause sedation, individuals should refrain from taking this herb with medications that promote sleep or reduce anxiety.

v Also, chronic treatment may prevent women from becoming pregnant (www.uspharmacist.com)

Damiana

Dandelion

Magickal Properties

Cautions

Elder [Sambucus nigra L.]

Constituents

Cautions

Constituents

Cerebral Effects

Cautions