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HERB           : Alstonia                                   
BOTANICAL NAME : Alstonia Scholaris                         
SYNONYMS       : Dita, Bitter bark, devil's tree,           
                 Pale mara, chhatim (India)                 
LOCALES FOUND  : Eastern Asia, India, Philippines,          
                  Ceylon, Borneo. (Tropical rainForest)     
                                                            
Alstonia causes minor irritation of the genitals, in the    
male it prolongs erection and delays orgasm, acting as      
a general tonic & mild stimulant for the nerves and         
circlulation. Except for use as an Aphrodisiac, it seems    
to have no medicinal values.                                
                                                            
CAUTIONS : Chlorogenic Acid, the primary active ingredient, 
           is a universal allergen and acts as a bladder    
           irritant.                                        
                                                            
Alstonia is usually prepared by crushing two grams of       
the seeds and soaking them in two ounces of water overnight.
The following day the Liquid is strained and drunk to       
produce the desired effect within a short period of time.   
The body does build up a tolerance to this herb over time,  
causing a need to increase the doseage over a period of     
time. Caution is advised against over useage of this herb   
in any short period of time.                                

                                                                 
HERBS FOR ANIMALS - Helen Massingham-Howells                     
                                                                 
On reflection perhaps I should have called this piece Herbs for  
Horses! Nearly all of these remedies were used by the European   
Gypsies and they have proven their effectivness through many     
generations. I am sure that you too, will them helpful.          
                                                                 
Most horses will take herbs when mixed with molasses or honey.   
Many times a brew with strong tasting herbs can be disguised with
black currant syrup or honey, particularly if cider vinegar has  
been added.                                                      
                                                                 
Hops (Humulus lupulus)                                           
"Hop tops" young shoots given to colts to condition them. A good 
tonic. Flowers fed in fodder to quiet restless animals, 1 or 2   
cups for young animals, 2 or 3 cups (1 cup equals 1 handful) for 
adults.                                                          
                                                                 
Ivy, Common (Glechoma Hederacea)                                 
Very good for internal cleansing after birth, 1 to 2 cups chopped
herb for mares immediately after giving birth. In treating       
retained afterbirth make a strong brew; in 1 pint of water add 1 
to 2 cups of common Ivy half pint drenches approximately every 3 
hours. Do not confuse with Poison Ivy please!                    
                                                                 
Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)                              
Horses like this herb so do sheep and goats. A good tonic.       
Parsley piert or Alchemilla arvensis is a gypsy cure for stones  
and a tonic after treating colic. It has been said that should   
man or animals take this herb on mid summers eve they could      
become invisible!! I have not tried that one, maybe one would    
have to take Woad (Ivatis tinctoria) to bring one back in sight. 
                                                                 
Of course the bluish hue might startle a few animals and people! 
                                                                 
                                                                 
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)                                
Used by gypsies as a spring tonic for horses, 1 to 2 cups of     
flowers cut up and mixed with mash or corn brew in 1.5 pints of  
water.                                                           
Nettle, Common (Urtica dioica)                                   
Good forage dried for horses, rich in minerals, lime, sodium,    
iron, chlorine and a naturally good in protein value. Nettle     
juice mixed with nettle seeds is a good hair tonic: use          
internally 1 cup of juice in the animals mash. Use externally to 
wash the coat, it will give it a beautiful shine, beneficial for 
show or racehorses.                                              
                                                                 
Oak (Quercus robur)                                              
Gypsies used the ripe acorns ground and dried them and mixed them
with wheat flour to make a gruel. The green cups are very        
astringent and made into a strong brew are used to check bleeding
internally and externally, 1 to 2 oz to 1.5 pints water.         
                                                                 

Poplar, Black (Populus nigra)                                    
Buds crushed in milk, honey and wine a good tonic for horses. For
sores, wounds, ulcers. Used externally too (by making an ointment
with the young buds).                                            
                                                                 
Puffball (Fungus)                                                
Used to stem bleeding and promote healing. Crushed and then      
applied to wounds.                                               
                                                                 
Quince (Pyrus Cydonia.                                           
Hair tonic for manes and tails. The peel is made into a brew 1   
cup to 1 pint.                                                   
                                                                 
Sanicle (Sanicula europaea)                                      
Used as a talisman on banners and shields to protect war-horses  
and hopefully their riders. Good fodder. Effective for internal  
bleeding and wounds. Whole plant used make a brew or give 1 to 2 
cupfuls of the herb in feed.                                     
                                                                 
Scabious (Scabiosa arvensis) (Gypsy Rose)                        
Cleansing and antiseptic. A brew of the root and herb thickened  
with  borax, removes old sores and dandruff. Mix about 2 cups    
herb and root to one and a half pints water. Put in 1 tablespoons
of borax powder while still hot and stir well. Apply when cooled.
                                                                 
Strawberry or Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)                   
Leaves help prevent abortion, fruit good for nervous or slow     
horses. Foliage good for show and racehorses. 2 cups of leaves or
leaves and root daily or handful of berries daily.               
                                                                 
Sweet Cicely (Myrrhus odorata)                                   
Horses love this herb. A good tonic. Crush some or bruise the    
root and hold in the hand, they will usually come to one. Native 
Indians used this trick to catch the wild horses. Note make sure 
you catch the right horse!                                       
                                                                 
Tea Plant (Indian tea, China tea), (Thea sinensis)               
Make a strong infusion, 2 parts to 1 of vinegar, (cider if       
possible). Soak cotton cloth when cold and apply. Very good for  
sun stroke, sunburn, fine burns. Dose internally: 1 dessert-spoon
cider vinegar to 3 tablespoons tea mixture. Make the tea mixture 
with 2 tablespoons in 10 oz. hot water, add a pinch of cinnamon  
or 1 to 2 cloves or both. Give cold if possible.                 

Willow, White (Salix alba)                                       
Young shoots and foliage given by gypsies for cattle and horses  
as a tonic                                                       
                                                                 
Willow (Salix caprea)                                            
Given to goats to calm their hot tempers and cool their blood. I 
am not sure whether that means they gave it to the old goats or  
not. What is good for the animals is good for man too!           
                                                                 


APHRODISIACS by Aquarian                                         
                                                                 
Aphrodisiacs! The word itself can send a tingle of anticipation  
down your spine. Throughout the ages almost every culture has    
used various `substances', usually herbal in origin, to put some 
zip into their love lives or in an attempt to cure the impotent. 
The types of preparation employed as aphrodisiacs ranged from the
useless (except perhaps for their psychological effects) to the  
extremely dangerous, some being toxic enough to cause death!     
However, leaving those dangers behind....                        
                                                                 
There were four main types of herbal substances used as          
aphrodisiacs. The first and most dangerous was the narcotic, used
to intoxicate the user's object of desire, thereby rendering them
incapable of responding to an unwanted sexual advance. These     
aren't real aphrodisiacs obviously, just a way of weakening      
another person's will. These substances are extremely dangerous  
in even slight doses and are now justifiably illegal in most     
parts of the world.                                              
                                                                 
The second type were substances that would irritate the mucous   
membrane of the genitalia, hopefully producing a warm, itching   
feeling similar to sexual arousal. Unfortunately, what often     
happens is that the genitalia become inflamed, causing permanent 
damage. The prospect of kidney problems and other unpleasant     
side-effects is also high. This type of so-called aphrodisiac is 
best left alone.                                                 

The next group of substances used as aphrodisiacs were herbs     
that alleviated medical disorders that interfered with normal    
sexual function. Any herb that helped to alleviate the symptoms  
of a variety of genito-urinary tract infections, or that supplied
badly needed vitamins or minerals that were lacking in the diet, 
could be considered as aphrodisiac, as they would allow a person 
with previous physical problems to function normally.            
                                                                 
An example is Ephedra nevadensis which has been used as a remedy 
for kidney, bladder and urinary problems and as an aphrodisiac.  
In some parts of the world Kelp (Macrocystis pyrifera) is        
considered to be aphrodisiac. Kelp is rich in  many vitamins and 
minerals, among them iodine, necessary for the proper function of
the thyroid gland. Lack of iodine can result in excessive        
physical fatigue and a lowered sex drive.                        
                                                                 
The fourth type of herbal aphrodisiac is the one that seems to   
have the effect of directly increasing sexual desire and prowess,
even increasing the intensity of the sensations felt during      
orgasm. After some extensive research and experimentation the two
herbs that seem to produce the best results in this regard are   
Kava Kava root and Damiana leaves.                               
.

                                                                 
Kava Kava is obtained from the shrub Piper methysticum, which is 
native to the Polynesian Islands, It has been used by the        
Islanders as a religious and visionary herb and aphrodisiac for  
most of their history. Since none of the active ingredients of   
Kava Kava are water soluble, the natives would pre-chew the roots
and then blend this saliva/root mixture with coconut milk. The   
resulting liquid was then fermented to produce a potent beverage 
that was used for important rituals. The effect of the drink is  
to relax spinal activity, producing an euphoric state of         
relaxation but without impairing mental activity. Some subjects  
also experience a tingling feeling in the genitalia, producing   
all the ingredients for an interesting sexual experience.        
                                                                 
If you would like to try this kava drink (!) mix together in a   
blender; one ounce of powdered Kava Kava root, two tablespoons of
olive oil, one tablespoon of soya lecithin granules and ten      
ounces of water. Blend on high for one minute. This amount will  
suffice for 2-4 people.                                          
                                                                 
**Over use of Kava Kava will cause dangerous respiratory and skin
problems.**                                                      
                                                                 
Damiana is obtained from the shrub Turnera diffusa, which is     
native to the U.S. Southwest and northern Mexico. The inhabitants
of this region have used Damiana for many years as a remedy for  
nervous disorders, and as a tonic and aphrodisiac. Damiana seems 
to have a positive toning effect on both the nervous system and  
sexual organs, especially when combined in equal parts with Saw  
Palmetto berries. Some users of the combination tea (Damiana and 
Saw Palmetto) report that, taken an hour or so before sexual     
activity, it helps produce a more satisfactory experience. The   
best results seem to be obtained when Damiana is taken in        
moderation over a period of time. Using the tea mentioned above  
(one cup per day for two weeks) seems to have stimulating effects
on sexual performance.                                           
                                                                 
My favourite Damiana recipe is a delightfully strong tasting     
cordial. To produce this `Damiana liqueur' soak one ounce of     
Damiana Leaves, two tablespoons of Saw Palmetto berries, two     
tablespoons of Angelica root and a l/2 tablespoon of vanilla pods
in 750 ml. of whisky. After one week, strain the mixture through 
a coffee filter and save the liquid. Re-soak the herbs, etc. in  
750 ml. distilled water for another week and then strain this    
second mixture. Heat the second mix to approximately 80C and     
dissolve one cup of honey into the hot liquid. After the honey   
has dissolved, remove from the heat, allow to cool somewhat and  
then add it to the first (whisky) mixture.                       
                                                                 
You must then age the whole thing for at least a month! One ounce
of liqueur, taken once a day for a few weeks should produce      
interesting results. Herbs usually work in a gentle fashion so   
don't expect instantaneous results. Indeed, because of their     
different metabolism, some people may not experience any effects 
whatever, while others may find the results too potent. Use these
herbs in a respectful manner and use them in moderation,         
over-indulgence or extended use may have harmful side-effects.   
Most importantly, be wise, oh and by the way... enjoy yourselves!


n Herb Garden for Bees.   Heather Apple                         
                                                                 
Did you know that bees are instinctive and highly skilled        
herbalists? Juliette de Bairacli Levy, the Master Herbalist, has 
found that bees are wonderful doctors in their own right and know
how to dose themselves with herbs to maintain health within the  
hive.                                                            
                                                                 
When I read this, I did not keep bees myself, but was very aware 
of the many bees that visited my garden. There was a wonderful   
variety ranging from tiny wild bees, to domestic honey bees, to  
great fat bumble bees.                                           
                                                                 
I realized that bees were facing incredible challenges with      
pollution, acid rain and especially the pesticides sprayed on    
crops and roadside weeds. I decided that I would combine my love 
of herbs with my love for bees and plant a special medicinal     
garden to help the bees cope with our present environment.       
                                                                 
I did some research to discover which herbs were especially      
beneficial to bees. These include aromatic herbs such as         
lavender, rosemary, thyme, sage, bee balm (bergamot), hyssop,    
anise-hyssop, basil and marjoram; wild herbs such as motherwort, 
catnip and purple loosestrife; bitter herbs such as southernwood,
wormwood and rue; nectar rich herbs such as clover and alfalfa;  
all the mints; the borage family; and the rose family.           
I had already known that bees loved borage and I had planted it  
among my squashes, cucumbers and melons in order to attract bees 
for pollination. Now, I planted patches all over the garden,     
making good use of the plants that had self-seeded from the      
previous year.                                                   
                                                                 
I also carefully noted the blooming periods of all the herbs,    
flowers, weeds, and flowering shrubs and trees on our property.  
Over the next couple of years I planted additional varieties to  
assure that there was an uninterrupted and rich banquet of       
blossoms from the first crocuses in spring, all through the      
summer, to the crisp days of autumn when bees are immobilized by 
the cold and no longer able to work.                             
                                                                 
I also increased the size of my herb garden. Generally, I harvest
my herbs just before they come into flower, or else I harvest the
flowers themselves as soon as they open. I planted extras of each
variety so that I could allow a number of plants to go to full   
flower and so supply the bees.                                   
                                                                 
The rewards of this bit of extra effort have been enormous. The  
population of bees has continued to increase over the years. It  
is a pleasure to go out to the garden and hear my comfrey patch  
buzzing as the blossoms are visited by hoards of honey bees and  
bumble bees.                                                     
.

                                                                 
My Rosa rugosa patch is a special treat for the senses - the     
sight of masses of pink blossoms, the scent of the warm, sunny   
air, heavy with sweet rose fragrance and the sound of droves of  
buzzing bees. Often I have watched bees actually rolling around  
among the stamens of the rose blossoms. This may serve the       
utilitarian purpose of gathering extra large amounts of pollen.  
But to me, it almost seems something more. Imagine being a bee   
and spending your day climbing inside giant, fragrant flower     
blossoms to gather golden pollen and sweet nectar. What an       
ecstatic life!                                                   
                                                                 
Juliette de Bairacli Levy praises the healing properties of      
honey. She says that the test for pure, good and powerful honey  
is that it should burn the throat of the consumer.               
                                                                 
Her own herbal honey was so strong that some people accused her  
of adding hot pepper. However, she took honey comb straight from 
the hive to show them that this was its natural flavour.         
                                                                 
Flowers are the most vital part of the plant - a glorious        
expression of its moment of perfection. This is something        
understood by those who make and use Flower Essences. Imagine a  
rich honey, gathered on sunny summer days from the blossoms of   
healing herbs - a rich nectar transformed by golden bees in the  
heart of their hive. What healing qualities, what a taste and    
fragrance of summer herbs it can bring to dark winter days!      
                                                                 
One can believe that the curative properties of such honey would 
be great. This could be something that practising herbalists and 
interested individuals might be interested in experimenting with.
                                                                 
If you don't have your own hive, you could invite a beekeeper to 
keep a hive on your land in return for a share of the honey.     
                                                                 
But even if you can't have a hive, you can still have the        
pleasure that comes from watching the bees at work in your       
garden, and the satisfaction of knowing that you are providing   
them with healthful herbs that will help them survive in a       
difficult world.                                                 


 BLOOD PURIFYING HERBAL TEA                  
       --------------------------                                     
e following recipe comes from the Vegetarian Times, May 1990 issue,   
d looks fairly reasonable from an herbalists point of view, though I  
ght add a bit of nutmeg and cinnamon to it for my own tastes).        
                                                                      
part burdock root                                                     
part chicory root (may be roasted for a coffee-like taste)            
part dandelion root                                                   
part sarsaparilla root                                                
2 part yellow dock root                                               
2 part licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) to sweeten [optional]       
                                                                      
mbine herbs in a jar. To make tea, use 1 teaspoon herbs per 1 cup of  
ter [1 teaballs worth basically]. Place herbs and water in a          
ucepan. bring to a boil, cover, reduce heat and let simmer for about  
 minutes. Strain before serving.                                      
 Start by drinking 1 cup of tea daily. You may increase to 2 or 3     
ps if you wish. For best results continue drinking dialy for at       
ast 2 weeks.                                                          


HERB           : Sweet Flag                                
BOTANICAL NAME : Acorus Calamus                            
SYNONYMS       : Calamus, sweet sedge, rat root, sweet     
                 myrtle, beewort, bachh (Hindu),           
                 Racha (Vedic), Shihch'ang pu (chinese)    
LOCALES FOUND  : Europe, Asia, China, North America from   
                 Nova Scotia to minnesota; southward to    
                 Florida & Texas.                          
                                                           
The effects of Calamus, produced from the root, are as a   
stimulent when a dried root of about 2 inches length and   
the thickness of a pencil; a Hallucinogen when 10+ inches  
of selfsame root are eaten. It is legal in the US and can  
be bought in dried form in many parts of the country for   
under $3 an ounce. It has an additional medicinal value,   
according to the Cree Indians, to relieve constipation, in 
the smaller doseage.                                       
                                                           
The root can be chewed and eaten raw, and has a taste of a 
bitter ginger root. Eaten this way it numbs the tongue for 
4-10 minutes. Although possible this takes developing a    
taste for it.                                              
   A tonic or tea can also be made, far more useful if all 
you can find is the ground root, 1 ounce per 1 pint of the 
boiling water, preferably mixed with a few pleasant tasting
herbs like spearmint or peppermint and served with honey   
(NO MILK PRODUCT - IT WILL CAUSE IRRITATION, POSSIBLE      
VOMITTING IF SUCH IS DONE). Preferably take it on an empty 
stomache. In this form it does not act as a Hallucinogen   
but does have its other effects.                           
   Calamus can also be added to a meade recipe, but will   
give it a slightly bitter aftertaste no matter what other  
herbs you add to the brew.                                 


Chinese Checkers!                                                
                                                                 
Last December saw new Government initiatives directed            
specifically towards imported Chinese medicines. The Oriental    
Community, fearing restrictions on the use of their traditional  
medicinal herbs, organised a public meeting in Toronto, inviting 
representatives from Health and Welfare Canada to explain the new
Government position.                                             
                                                                 
I could not resist attending this meeting myself and after       
hearing both sides speak, it seems that these remedies are now   
subject to the same Food and Drug regulations that all other     
herbal preparations have to deal with. Packaging must now be     
bi-(tri?)-lingual, and no claims may be made in regard to their  
medicinal effectiveness, unless of course the remedy has a       
Government approved Drug Identification Number (DIN).            
                                                                 
Unfortunately Health and Welfare Canada appear to have adopted   
the `let's see how difficult we can make it for them' approach,  
when it comes to issuing these DIN numbers. This was amply       
illustrated at the meeting, with many fully documented examples  
of importers and manufacturers bending over backwards to conform 
to regulations, that seemed to change as frequently as the hair  
styles of the Government bureaucrats involved!                   
                                                                 
As a service to our members the Society has available a full(?)  
list of the restricted Chinese herb products. The size of this   
list prohibits us from printing it here, so if you would like a  
copy, please write to us and we will mail one out to you.        
                                                                 
However, the importation and sale of non-proscribed Chinese herbs
in their natural form, i.e. roots, leaves, barks etc. is NOT     
affected. Dong quai (Chinese angelica), will still be available  
at your herb store. Although for how long is anyone's guess. Our 
most useful and effective herbs are classed as restricted, with  
more joining the proscribed lists than ever before. How long     
before your chamomile tea becomes an illegal drug? Don't laugh,  
it's happening. Yet thousands of our citizens are addicted to the
legal botanic drug caffeine, with the prospect of any restriction
concerning its use, non existent. What on earth is going on here?


                                                                 
Herbs of course are not just for medicine. They are used all over
the world for their colours and flavours and are an indispensible
part of a fine meal. Here's a chance, courtesy of Nettie Cronish 
(the Vegetarian Gourmet!), to try an authentic Far Eastern       
recipe. Good luck!                                               
                                                                 
Curries                                                          
                                                                 
We consider curries native to India and do not realize how many  
different types there are. There seems to be many misconceptions 
about curries in general. Curry is a fashion of cooking: a       
process whereby meats, fish, vegetables or even fruit are cooked 
in varying combinations of ground herbs and spices, (known as    
curry pastes), to produce a stew like dish. All dishes that are  
hot and spicy are not curries, nor are all curries fiery hot.    
Curry powder is an amalgam of some "Indian" spices best applied  
to the flavorings of curry dips and dishes where a hint of curry 
influence is desired.                                            
                                                                 
In a Thai curry, the proportion of solids to liquid is small. As 
they are always eaten over large mounds of steamed rice, just a  
few solids suffice and the flavour of the spicy, highly flavored 
gravy is extended by the bland rice.                             
                                                                 


HERB :          DAMIANA                                     
BOTANICAL NAME: Turnera diffusa L.                          
SYNONYMS      : Mexican Damiana                             
LOCALES FOUND : Texas & Mexican Deserts                     
                                                            
The effects of Damiana  are to stimulate the genito-        
urinary tract, acting as a mild aphrodisiac and also        
produces a euphoria like that produced by the THC in        
Marijuana for 1 to 1 1/2 hours.                             
                                                            
CAUTION : Excessive long term use of this herb may be       
toxic to the liver (in a way similar as alchol can)         
                                                            
Damiana can be prepared as a tea, using two heaping         
tablespoons of dried leaf and letting it seep for just      
under 5 minutes. [Adding a tablespoon of Catnip to this     
can increase the euphoria effect but may detract from       
the Aphrodisiac stimulation].                               
   It can also be prepared as a liquer, by mixing it        
with Vodka (1 ounce leaf to 1 pint vodka for 5 days         
before consuming), but may have a mild purgative result     
in some people.                                             
   You can also place it within a brownie mix, as if        
marijuana, at about the same levels. This cuts the          
flavor, but not the effects as far as is known.             
   It can also be added to a standard meade recipe,         
about 1 ounce per gallon, at the start of fermentation      
process.                                                    
                                                            
   Damiana is useful in magical work in that it aids in     
the breaking down of the natural mental barriers and        
inhibitors, if not used in excess, and preferably not by    
someone working on the opening of a gateway/portal. It      
can be highly useful in tantra magics and in such activities
as Astral travel, deep meditation and spirit quests.        
   Damiana is LEGAL at present in the US, but like most     
herbs that have mind-influencing affects there have been    
attempts at legislation to prevent its sale in some states  
but so far it should not be a problem. Damiana may also     
be useful in small quantities for stomache ailments,        
and pain relief in mixes with other herbs.                  


                                                                  
     It is unthinkable that any serious student of herbal         
medicine would be unaware of the existence of a diagnostic system 
called, "The Doctrine of Signatures".  Most people have read of   
it in passing with little or no explanation.  In the historical   
perspective, it is one of the most important modes of medical     
thinking to have evolved, and it was expounded in medical texts   
from the middle of the sixteen hundreds right up to the end of    
the nineteenth century.                                           
                                                                  
The Doctrine of Signatures is most notable in that it was not     
originally formulated for the medical profession.  It took shape  
as a spiritual philosophy that had as its base the simple concept 
that God had marked everything he had created with a sign.  This  
sign was a clear indicator of the item's true purpose as intended 
by God.                                                           
                                                                  
There are allusions to this sort of theory in the writings of     
Galen A.D. 131-200.  But it was not until the publication of      
Jacob Boehme's Book "Signatura Rerum; The Signature of all        
Things" was published in the first half of the seventeenth        
century that it took form as a complete philosophy.               
                                                                  
Jacob Boehme was not a learned man, he was in fact, a             
shoemaker from a poor family just outside Goerlitz, Germany.  In  
1600, he was visited by a sudden illumination of the mind in      
which was made clear to him the doctrine he espoused for the      
remainder of his life.  He published his revelations in the book, 
"Aurora" 1612, and was promptly exiled from his home town by the  
city council on the advice of the pastor of Goerlitz.  The city   
council reversed the banishment the next day on the condition     
that he wrote no further books.  He was apparently unable to      
comply with the conditions and left for Prague the next year. He  
died in 1624 having authored two books and several treatises on   
the subject of his visions.                                       
                                                                  
The first person to look on Boehme's theories as something more   
secularly useful than a method for spiritual meditations was      
Paracelsus who was writing in the first half of the sixteen       
hundreds.  Paracelsus is considered by modern scholars to be the  
father of modern chemistry, and he did much in his lifetime to    
popularise the Doctrine of Signatures in its medical application. 
                                                                  
(Put in its simplest terms, the Doctrine states that by           
careful observation one can learn the uses of a plant from some   
aspect of its form or place of growing.)  The level of signature  
often got a little far fetched, and it would seem that this was a 
case of attempting to make the known facts fit the popular        
theory.  In a period where most of the world was still largely    
illiterate, it is likely that the Doctrine of Signatures was      
useful as a mnemonic aid for the apprentice who was learning by   
observation and rote.                                             
.

                                                                  
I will give here a series of examples from William Cole who was   
writing in the Seventeenth Century and was greatly influenced by  
the teachings of Paracelsus.  They will give you some idea of the 
practical application of the Doctrine. These examples are taken   
from notes that were intended to teach the practices of medicine. 
His books are titled, "The Art of Simpling" and "Adam in Eden".   
The distilled water of Hawthorn: "It is found by good experience, 
that if cloathes and spunges be wet in the said water and applyed 
to any place whereinto thornes, splinters etc. have entered and   
be there abiding, it will notably draw forth, so that the thorn   
gives a medicine for its own prickling."  The signature is in the 
thorn itself in this case.                                        
                                                                  
Lung wort, due to the spots on its leaves was related to          
Pulmonary complaints.                                             
Plants with yellow flowers or roots, such as Goldenrod were       
believed to cure conditions of Jaundice by the signature of       
colour.                                                           
Plants with a red signature were used for blood disorders.        
John Gerard states in his herbal when speaking of St. John's      
Wort, "The leaves, flowers and seeds stamped, and put into a      
glass with oile olive, and set in the hot sunne for certaine      
weeks togather and then strained from those herbes, and the like  
quantity of new put in, and sunned in like manner, doth make an   
oile of the colour of blood, which is a most precious remedy for  
deep wounds..."  In this sort of case, the doctrine goes a little 
far in demanding that the preparation be made before the          
signature evidences itself.                                       
                                                                  
The petals of the Iris were commonly used as a poultice for       
bruising because of the signature of colour, the petals           
resembling in hue the bruise they were to alleviate.              
                                                                  
Beyond the signature of colour was that of form.  If a portion of 
a plant resembled an organ or other part of the Human Anatomy, it 
was believed to be beneficial to that part, thus, Cole speaks of  
Lily of the Valley in the following terms, " It cureth apoplexy   
by Signature; for as that disease is caused by the dropping of    
humours into the principal ventricles of the brain: so the        
flowers of this Lily hanging on the plants as if they were drops, 
are of wonderful use herein."                                     
                                                                  
Poplar or "Quaking Aspen" leaves were used for shaking            
Palsy, and Byrony root, which, with a little imagination could be 
said to resemble a swollen human foot, was obviously signed for   
use in cases of Dropsy which caused swelling of the foot.         
There are many more examples of similar types, but this will      
give a sort of general overview to the theory.                    
                                                                  
The Doctrine of Signatures naturally led to the concept of        
Astrological influence, and this was developed and put forward by 
Nicolas Culpeper in his book, "Judgement of Diseases" in the mid  
sixteen hundreds.  This was a sort of scientific version of the   
Doctrine of Signatures that set itself up in opposition to the    
simpler folk style we have seen previously.  In fact there were a 
number of vituperative arguments and clashes between Cole and     
Culpeper over the relative merits of the two systems.             
.
                                                                  
In short, the two systems weren't that far different from each    
other, and their evaluations of the uses of herbs were generally  
the same, the means of arriving at the interpretation was the     
thing in dispute.  Culpeper felt that only astrologers were fit   
to study medicine, being an astrologer himself did not, I'm sure  
hinder him in the formation of this bias.  Cole was of the        
"College of Physicians in London" whom Culpeper loudly decried    
as, " A company of proud, insulting, domineering doctors, whose   
wits were born about 500 years before themselves."  Cole was also 
the most avid proponent of the Doctrine of Signatures.            
                                                                  
They carried on a literary battle for supremacy which was         
effectively won in 1649 by Culpeper, when he published, " a       
physicall directory or a translation of the London dispensary     
made by the College of Physicians in London..."  In this book, he 
had translated the College's main medical text from the Latin,    
into the vernacular so that the common man could wean himself     
away from dependance on the Doctors by delving into the mysteries 
that were formerly known only to the learned physicians.  He also 
added his own commentary on the formulas, and included a healthy  
dose of his astrological theories, seeming to give them the       
credence of the College.  The College was not amused and          
proceeded to attack Culpeper in broadsides from this time, and    
continued unceasingly, even after his death.                      
                                                                  
The astrological system of diagnosis and treatment was set forth  
in Culpeper's "complete herbal" in the following way:             
                                                                  
1. Consider what planet causeth the disease; that thou mayest     
find it in my aforesaid "Judgement of Diseases". (His other       
book).                                                            
                                                                  
2. Consider what part of the body is affected by the disease and  
whether it lies in the flesh or blood or bones or ventricles.     
                                                                  
3. Consider by what planet the afflicted part of the body is      
governed; that my "Judgement of Diseases" will inform you also.   
                                                                  
4. You may oppose diseases by herbs of the planet opposite to the 
planet that causes them; as diseases of the luminaries by the     
herbs of Saturn and the contrary; diseases of Mars by the herbs   
of Venus and the contrary.                                        
                                                                  
5. There is a way to cure diseases sometimes by sympathy and so   
every planet cures its own diseases; as the sun and moon by their 
herbs cure the eyes, Saturn the spleen, Jupiter the liver, Mars   
the gall and diseases of the choler, and by Venus diseases in the 
instruments of generation."                                       
                                                                  
Astrology was consulted for diagnosis, classification of          
medicinal plants and bodily functions, the preparation of         
medicines, and the determination of the most favorable time to    
administer the remedy.                                            
.

                                                                  
I will briefly set down the basic planetary divisions of the      
botanic kingdom.  One will note how similar the method is to the  
broader Doctrine of Signatures, in fact, there is little          
deviation here from the planetary catalogue set down by           
Paracelsus.                                                       
                                                                  
SUN:                                                              
   The sun was said to rule the heart, circulation, and the       
vertebral column.  All plants that appeared solar, such as        
Calendula and Sunflower fell under its influence, as did those    
plants that followed the sun in their growth such as Heliotrope.  
                                                                  
Plants that were heat producing, such as Clove and Pepper, and    
all those having a tonic effect on the heart were classified      
under the Sun.                                                    
                                                                  
MOON:                                                             
   The moon was held to influence growth, fertility, the breasts, 
stomach, womb, and menstrual cycle.  It also exerted control over 
the brain and the memory.  All body fluids and secretions were    
believed to be under the lunar sway.  To some extent, the entire  
plant world was subject to the Moon, as harvesting and planting   
was performed in accordance with the lunar phases.  Most          
especially lunar were those plants with a diaphoretic action, or  
with juicy globular fruits.  Moisturizing, cooling, or soothing   
juices fell in here as well.                                      
                                                                  
MERCURY;                                                          
   Mercury ruled the nervous system, and the organs of speech,    
hearing, and respiration.  Mercuric plants bore finely divided    
leaves such as fennel, dill, and carrot.  The smell was usually   
sharp and distinctive.  The most typical of Mercury's plants had  
a mood elevating, slightly tonic effect.                          
                                                                  
VENUS:                                                            
   Venus ruled the complexion, the sexual organs, and the hidden  
inner workings of the body cells. Venusian plants almost all bore 
heavily scented, showy blossoms such as the Damascus Rose or the  
                                                                  
Apple Blossom.  The medicinal effects were commonly emollient,    
anti-nephritic, and alterative.  Of course, many of the           
aphrodesiac plants were included under the auspice of Venus as    
well.                                                             
                                                                  
MARS:                                                             
   Mars ruled the muscles, body vitality, and the libido.  It     
also had influence in the combustion processes of the body and    
the motor nerves.  Its plants generally affected the blood, and   
were stimulating, and in many cases aphrodesiac.  Many were hot   
and acrid in their nature.                                        
                                                                  
JUPITER:                                                          
   Jupiter ruled the liver, the abdomen, the spleen, and the      
kidney.  Digestion was governed by this planet as was body        
growth.  Most of Jupiter's plants are edible, many bearing nuts   
or fruit such as the chestnut and the apricot.  Its medicinal     
traits are antispasmodic, calmative, hepatic, and anthelmintic.   
.
                                                                  
SATURN:                                                           
   Saturn ruled over aging, the bone structure, teeth, and all    
hardening processes.  Many of its plants are poisonous such as    
Hemlock and Belladonna.  The effects of Saturnian plants are      
sedative, pain relieving, coagulant, or bone-forming.             
                                                                  
Beyond these seven planets, the proponents of this theory         
had no knowledge of any other heavenly influences.                
                                                                  
To many of us, this method seems very arbitrary and unreliable,   
but one must note, that it was more a system of catalogue than a  
real formula for discovery.  A budding herbalist may know that    
Mercury has many plants with highly divided leaves like Parsley,  
but he also knew, that Jupiter had the Hemlock, also with finely  
divided leaves, and so he could not trust that all plants with    
the leaf type would act the same.  Most of the herbal apprentices 
could read little and write less, and the Doctrine of Signatures  
came to the rescue as a slightly more dignified mnemonic key than 
the doggerel verse of the village witch-wife.                     
                                                                  


The beauty of Echinacea is equal its value medicinally. The       
intense purple rosy and daisy-like flowers outshine most flowers  
in the herb garden. Even the Monarch butterflies find it          
attractive. This perennial plant's natural habitats are the       
prairies and dry plains of North America, mainly in the U.S.A.,   
from southern Saskatchewan and Manitoba, down into Texas.         
                                                                  
The most common species of purple coneflowers are E.angustifolia, 
E.purpurea and E.pallida. E.angustifolia is in most demand        
medicinally though the other two mentioned species are just as    
effective when properly prepared. Below is a brief botanical      
description of the three common species:                          
                                                                  
E.angustifolia - is smaller and delicate, grows to 2 ft. Leaves   
are lanceolate with smooth margins. Flower petals do not droop    
but spread outward from the seed-head.                            
                                                                  
E.purpurea - grows to 5 ft. A robust plant with many ovate        
leaves. Leaf margins are toothed. Flowers are large with petals   
drooping towards the stem.                                        
                                                                  
E.pallida - grows to 3 ft. Leaves are lanceolate with smooth      
margins. The colour of the flowers vary from purple to white and  
are drooping.                                                     
                                                                  
The part of the plant used in herbal preparations is              
traditionally the root. When eating the fresh root an unusual     
tingling, numbing sensation occurs in the mouth and increases     
saliva flow. This anesthetic-like effect is also present in the   
seeds when sprouted. It is a good indicator as to how fresh the   
Echinacea preparation is.                                         
                                                                  
With today' attention on immune deficiency diseases, this is one  
herb we cannot overlook. Research in Europe indicates that        
Echinacea does stimulate the immune system. This occurs when the  
polysaccharides present in the plant, (complex carbohydrates      
which convert into sugars), stimulate the T cell lymphocytes,     
which in turn increases the production of interferon. This        
interferon activity protects cells against viral and bacterial    
infections. One polysaccharide named echinacin B has been         
isolated from E.angustifolia & E.purpurea and its' effect is      
healing for inflammations, wounds and swellings.                  
                                                                  
Echinacea also contains an essential oil which has been tested in 
the treatment of tumors.One case history involves a strong        
reaction to mosquito and black-fly bites. Symptoms are abnormal   
skin swellings and swollen lymph nodes. Echinacea taken           
internally reduced the swellings.                                 
                                                                  
Another case history involves the Epstein-barr virus, (a herpes-  
like virus). Ingestion of Echinacea over a period of time, along  
with dietary changes, improved the vitality of the immune system. 
Energy level increased along with an improved resistance to       
minor colds and flu.                                              
The Native Indians used Echinacea for snake bites. They were      
aware of Echinacea's blood cleansing properties and also used the 
plant for cancers and infections.                                 
.

                                                                  
Echinacea is most effective when used in its' fresh state. If you 
are buying dried roots chew a piece first, if there is no numbing 
sensation in the mouth then the roots are old or improperly       
dried. E.angustifolia dries well, though reports indicate that    
this species is sometimes substituted with E.purpurea or          
E.pallida and sold as E.angustifolia. The roots are best          
harvested in fall. Being a native plant this is one instance      
where we do not have to rely on importation and we should         
encourage the local herb farming of this species, (although it    
does take at least 3 years for the roots to mature and make it    
worthwhile digging up the plant!).                                
                                                                  
Dosage of Echinacea tincture is up to 30 drops, 3 times a day for 
adults depending on the seriousness of the ailment. The tincture  
is usually taken for the duration of the illness, but of course   
there is a saying that you can take too much of a good thing, and 
this is true with Echinacea. For example if you drink coffee      
every day the pick me up effect will eventually over stimulate    
you or will cease to work. Do not ingest Echinacea continuously   
over a long period of time, give your body a periodic rest from   
the immune stimulation.                                           
                                                                  
The only observed side effect from ingesting Echinacea is nausea, 
although this is rare. It usually indicates that the body is full 
of toxins, so decrease your intake of the herb.                   
                                                                  
                                                                 
Fluid Extracts                                                   
                                                                 
Fluid extracts are used both to concentrate and preserve the     
active ingredients of an herb, enabling it to be used whenever   
necessary, i.e. when the herb is out of season.                  
                                                                 
Fluid extracts are considered by many herbalists to be the       
preferred way to preserve water soluble active ingredients.      
If possible always use fresh ingredients.                        
                                                                 
When properly made one fluid ounce of fluid extract equals one   
ounce of fresh herb.                                             
                                                                 
Always use accurate measurements to ensure consistency and the   
effect of a given dose.                                          
                                                                 
Equipment needed - Large non metal or stainless steel pan with   
lid, water - not city water, heat source, measuring jug,         
vegetable glycerine.                                             
                                                                 
Directions to produce 4 oz of Dandelion root fluid extract -     
   4 oz washed fresh Dandelion roots                             
   3 quarts water (total amount)                                 
   2 fluid oz vegetable glycerine                                
                                                                 
Chop Dandelion roots into approx 1\4 inch pieces. Put into pan   
with 2 quarts water. Bring to a boil and then cover pan and allow
to simmer until water is reduced to one quart. Take off heat and 
strain through a cloth squeezing out all excess liquid.          
                                                                 
Place remains of herb back into pan and add one quart water. Save
fluid that was strained and put to one side. Reheat pan to boil  
and simmer herbs again with the pan covered until liquid is      
reduced by half to 1 pint. Strain through a cloth discarding the 
solid remains.                                                   
                                                                 
Now combine the two strained liquids, return to the large pan and
bring to a boil. Cover the pan and simmer until liquid is reduced
to 2 fluid ounces. These will take several hours...              
                                                                 
You have now extracted all the water soluble ingredients from 4  
oz of Dandelion roots and concentrated them into 2 oz of fluid.  
Remove this liquid from heat and allow to cool. Add 2 oz of      
vegetable glycerine and mix well. Pour into a dark glass bottle, 
stopper tightly and store in a cool place. Treated with care this
fluid extract will last at least one year.                       
                                                                 
N.B. - Glycerine is an essential fatty acid and is generally a by
product of soap manufacturing. It is used as a preservative and  
stabilising agent. Never add glycerine to hot liquids as it is   
temperature sensitive and will coagulate. Always mix with cold or
warm liquids.                                                    


                                                                 
After extensive tests your physician has determined that your    
immune system is weakened, leading directly to your allergy      
symptoms and suggestibility to colds and flu. However the        
treatment is straightforward and the physician expects you to be 
fully recovered in about 9 months. After a little social chit    
chat you receive your prescription and directions to the nearest 
bio-pharmacy. What a drag, its a 2 hour drive to get there! Still
these are difficult times, we must all make sacrifices. You      
telephone and arrange a time to visit. Excellent! They can fit   
you in tomorrow.                                                 
                                                                 
The air is crisp and clear as you pull into the pharmacy parking 
area. Leaving your auto for its next occupant you spend a few    
minutes taking in the view and breathing in the pure fresh air,  
filled with the delicate perfume of the bio-pharmacy garden. Your
grandparents still have difficulties understanding the new       
pharmacies. They dispense no chemicals or synthetic drugs, their 
entire pharmacopeia being composed of living plant formulae. It  
seems so obvious now how unnecessary so many of the chemical     
drugs were and with our new understanding of disease, and the    
awareness of the importance of diet and food vitality, medicine  
has come the full circle.                                        
                                                                 
The transition was not without casualties. The large drug        
companies survived of course, after buying up most of the organic
herb farms, in the eighties and nineties, but many of the        
traditional Medical Guilds fell apart, unable, with their mostly 
reductionist outlook, to accept the new healing systems.         
                                                                 
It was during these times, during the AIDS and environment       
crisis, that the value of organic Botanic Medicine became        
apparent. So many diseases of those times had their origins in   
devitalised foods, laden with inorganic poisons. With the        
discovery that wild food plants and herbs contained the vital    
organic elements that enabled the body to repair itself, the bio-
pharmacy was born.                                               
                                                                 
The root of the bio-pharmacy was bio-dynamic farming. Here wild  
herbs and other plants were permitted to grow without the effects
of a polluted environment, or synthetic fertilizers and          
pesticides. They were harvested at the correct astrological      
times, and used and prepared in ways that ensured survival of    
their living force. Plants utilised for specific treatments were 
bathed in Kirlian energy specific to that function, thereby      
enhancing their healing effects in those directions. Rare        
minerals were added to the soil for utilization by the plants and
ultimately of course, by the people who ate them.                
                                                                 
The best example of this was the use of the wild garlic, long    
known as a source of organic selenium, vital for effective immune
function. After nearly 100 years of dietary insufficiency in     
organic selenium, (due mostly to the leaching effects of chemical
fertilizers), the re-introduction of this element into our food  
supply, led to the specific improvements in immune function that 
enabled us to eradicate the spectre of AIDS and establish the    
validity of the bio-dynamic pharmacy.                            
.

                                                                 
The arrival of the pharmacist brings you back to the present and 
you wonder why you need to make this visit. It is not necessary  
of course, for the old, infirm or otherwise immobile, but before 
dispensing your remedy the pharmacist must feel your vibrations  
and energies. It is important to ensure that your phyto-         
supplements are correctly attuned to your own bio-field and this 
is always best done in person. Even though your astro-data and   
psychic profile have already been utilised in the remedy         
formulation, this final, personal fine tuning, is always         
performed. The 20th. century and its impersonal and spiritually  
sterile methods are a part of recent history and for this you    
breathe a deep sigh of relief. The pharmacist makes you          
comfortable as you prepare for psychic connection and in a matter
of moments you fall comfortably into a deep and receptive sleep. 


                                                                 
Allium sativum - Garlic  (Liliaceae)                             
                                                                 
Parts used - bulb. Fresh juice is most effective.                
                                                                 
Constituents - contains volatile oil which is composed of allicin
and sulphur related compounds plus citral, geraniol, etc.        
Allicin is the major odour principle and taste of garlic, It is  
generated by action of the enzyme alliinase on alliin. Under     
normal conditions alliinase and alliin are separated from each   
other inside the garlic bulb. However when the bulb is cut or    
crushed, the two are brought together and allinase turns alliin (
a non volatile odorless sulfur amino acid) into allicin( a       
pungent volatile sulphur compound.                               
                                                                 
- also contains enzymes, mucilage, protein and lipids.           
- also contains selenium-best known source, has antioxidant      
activity.                                                        
                                                                 
Properties- alterative, stimulant, diaphoretic, expectorant,     
antiseptic, antibiotic, antispasmodic, cholagogue, vulnerary,    
vermifuge.                                                       
-                                                                
has antibacterial and antifungal properties.                     
                                                                 
- the ingredient allicin inhibits growth of various bacteria,    
fungi, amoebas.                                                  
                                                                 
- inhibits production of harmful bacteria in the colon, for      
influenza, common cold and any types of viral infections.        
                                                                 
- is natural penicillin - it has only 1% of the impact of        
penicillin but it is more effective with gram negative bacteria  
than penicillin.                                                 
                                                                 
- lowers blood pressure and blood cholesterol- use garlic oil for
earaches.                                                        
                                                                 
- for prevention and elimination of heavy metal poisoning from   
the body on a daily basis-due to sulphur content.                
                                                                 
- is rubefacient and use as poultice in acute pectoral and       
abdominal inflammation and for drawing pustules and boils to a   
head- for canker sores                                           
                                                                 
- use in cookery as an aid to digestion                          
                                                                 
- commonly used in formulas to help strengthen immunity to       
disease.                                                         
                                                                 
- onions are similar but not as strong.                          
                                                                 
Overdose- induces blisters, irritations or dermatitis in some    
people.                                                          
.

  HERB           : Ginseng                                    
BOTANICAL NAME : Panax Quinquefolium L.                     
SYNONYMS       : American Ginseng, San, Redberry,           
                 five fingers, man root, divine root,       
                 Root of life                               
LOCALES        : Maine to Minnesota, N. Georgia, Arkansas   
                 and China.                                 
                                                            
Ginseng stimulates and increases endocrine activity in the  
body. Promotes a mild increase in metabolic activity and    
relaxes heart and artery movements. Stimulates the mdeulla  
centers and relaxes the central nervous system.             
                                                            
CAUTION : Don't take Ginseng and Ginseng mixtures with      
          Coffee as it will accelerate the caffine effects  
          on the body and can cause diarrhea.               
                                                            
There are several way to prepare and use Ginseng, more than 
I have in my Grimoire, I'm sure. The ones I am familiar with
follow:                                                     
                                                            
1) Chewed as a root, raw, about a pencil's thickness and 1" 
   long is best.                                            
2) As a Tea, 1 teaspoon of root filaments in a pint of      
   boiling water for 10 minutes (chew & swallow the pulp).  
   Sip tea very slowly.                                     
3) KaoLiang : this is a very expensive Chinese wine, aged   
   at least 3 years. It has a strength level of vodka in    
   alchol content. Makes an excellant nightcap.             
4) French Love Wine: two parts chablis, crush in an ounce   
   of vanilla bean, ounce of cinnamon chips, one dried      
   Rhubarb and one of ginseng. Leave stand 2 weeks & stir   
   it daily. Strain thru cheesecloth and add amber for      
   color (if wanted).                                       
                                                            
Japanese Ginseng should be avoided, as most of it is of     
poor quality. Korea exports ginseng 'tea' which is pleasant,
but is heavily cut with other herbs so that some of the     
effects are lost.                                           
                                                            
Ginseng is said to be highly good for the metabolism,       
and promotes general well being. It has a reputation as     
an aphrodisiac, but this seems to be totally based on the   
fact that it relaxes the overly tense person a bit. If      
you suffer from back pain or TMJ adding this to a tea of    
Catnip and slippery elm may help. It is also presumably     
useable as an ingredient in a meade or magewine.            
                                                                      
    

THIS ARTICLE IS COPYWRITE. IT MAY BE COPIED AND DISTRIBUTED 
PROVIDED THIS NOTICE IS NOT REMOVED. 
 
BOTANIC MEDICINE SOCIETY, BOX 82, STN. A, WILLOWDALE, ONTARIO, 
CANADA. M2N 5S7. 
 
Membership in the Botanic Medicine Society is available. Mail 
$25.00 to the above address and receive the quarterly magazine The
Herbalist for one year. An essential reference for all those with
an interest in herbs and herbalism. 

GOTU KOLA     Irene Yaychuk 
 
Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica, Hydrocotyle asiatica) is an herb often confused with another plant, the dried cotyledon (seed  leaf) of Cola nitida, commonly known as kola nuts, a well-known  ingredient of Coca-Cola containing 3.5% caffeine.[1]  Gotu Kola  is not a stimulant, but rather a very nutritious herb indigenous to hot, humid climates. 
Dr. John Heinerman, Medical Anthropologist, presented an address on Gotu Kola to the Second International Congress for the Study  of Traditional Asian Medicine, held at Airlanggu University in  Surabaya, Indonesia, September 2-7, 1984.  He stated that Gotu  Kola is used as a nourishing food and a valuable medicine in many cultures. The Hosa and the Mfengu tribes in East Africa have used it for both purposes. In the Philippines, the leaves are either  consumed raw in salads or as a tea for tonic and stimulant benefits to the body. The leaves have been employed medicinally  in the French West Indies, and Brazil to cure uterine cancer, leprosy and elephantiasis. In the People's Republic of China, gotu kola is used for fevers, common cold influenza, sore throat and liver ailments such as cirrhosis and jaundice.[2] 
Folk and traditional medicine have deemed this plant to be a brain food, beneficial for memory and senility.  Pharmacist Varro E. Tryler states that there is currently no evidence to support  the use of Gotu Kola as a longevity promoter or to substantiate the extravagant claims made for it as a revitalizing and healing herb. Substantial data on its safety and efficacy are, in his opinion, simply non-existent.[3] 
However, separate clinical studies to substantiate folk claims for its alleged memory enhancing properties have been done in the United States and India.[4] 
In India, Gotu Kola, an Ayurvedic herb, is called Mandookaparni.There, an impressive study dealt with the effect of gotu kola ongeneral mental ability of mentally retarded children. Whole plants were dried in the shade, powdered, and made into 1/2 gram tablets. Half of the thirty children studied were given one gotu kola tablet and half a placebo tablet daily.  Apart from  nutritional deficiencies, the children had no major illnesses. A Binet-Kamat test was administered and the children's Intelligence Quotients were recorded. Separate tests were also administered torecord any changes in the children's co-operation, memory, concentration, attention, vocabulary and overall adjustment. After three months, the tests were repeated.   
 
The findings showed there was a very s
youngsters taking gotu kola had
increased their powers of concentration and attention.[5]] 
      
Another Indian study showed that gotu kola extracts administered over a period of 42 months to normal healthy adults in the 45-50 age group had several benefits: haemoglobin increased by a significant percent, and the mean levels of blood urea and serum acid phosphatase were decreased. Subsequent examinations have revealed that this herb has brought about a steady increase in  blood sugar level (statistically significant).[6] A relationship between hypoglycemia, or low blood sugar levels, and mood swings,mental illness, fatigue, depression, confusion and schizophrenic tendencies is well documented. Dr. Heinerman feels that perhaps the 'memory enhancing' attributes of gotu kola may be attributed to the herb's ability to elevate blood sugar levels markedly. 
Gotu kola is higher in the B-complex vitamin group than any other plant previously examined.  This again may account for its effects on the brain.[7] It is especially high in thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), and pyridoxin (B6). B complex is necessary in providing energy for the body, by converting carbohydrates into glucose, a usable form of sugar for the body to burn. The B complex is responsible for the normal functioning of the nervous system as well.[8] A healthy nervous system allows for a better functioning and organized brain. 
(Other nutrients include numerous free amino acids, especially aspartate, glutamate, serine, threonine, alanine, lysine, histidine, and aminobutyrate found in greater quantities in the roots, but also present in leaves.[9]  The leaves also contain measurable amounts of provitamin A or carotene.) 
Isolated constituents of gotu kola were applied locally on woundsin laboratory rats.  This resulted in healthy new connective skintissue and increased the tensile strength of the flesh, as well 
as decreased the size of the would area.[10]  Asaticoside, a constituent of gotu kola was injected intra-muscularly or implanted directly into mice, rats, guinea pigs, and rabbits. It
produced a rapid thickening of the skin, an increased production of white blood cells, increased growth of new blood vessels of 
the connective tissue, and an increased growth of hair and nails.[11]  Lupus erythematosus was helped by extracts of gotu kola. 
Other studies have indicated gotu kola to be effective for gastric ulcers, phlebitis and varicose veins. It has been used for leprosy and related skin disorders, eye lesions, and muscular atrophy. 
One investigation of gotu kola was conducted in Provo Utah at Brigham Young University by a research psychologist who wanted to demonstrate gotu kola's amazing ability to overcome the negative effects of fatigue and stress when used in conjunction with cayenne pepper (Capsicum frutescens) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus).
Rodents were fed the three herbs by means of a surgical technique in which tubing was inserted under the skin, a couple of centimeters below the junction of the esophagus and stomach. Fatigue and stress situations were set up. One involved
swimming in a bucket of cold water, and another was to jump a barrier in order to avoid a mild foot shock. Within 24 hours of administration of the three herbs, the animals could successfully
clear the barrier after being dried off from the cold water treatment. Without the herbs, they required up to 72  hours to recuperate in order to jump the barrier. Dr. Mowrey concluded that a combination of capsicum, ginseng and gotu kola did have a beneficial effect on behaviour of stressed or fatigued animals whose metabolism are similar in many respects to that of man.[12]

      
HERB           : Guarana
BOTANICAL NAME : Paullinia Cupana
SYNONYMS       : Panela Supana, uabano.
LOCALES FOUND  : South America, Brazil & Venezuela
 
Primarily this herb is a stimulant. It quickens your
perceptions and wakefulness, slows the pulse, impairs
the appetite, and can be used to allow for long drives, extended work hours, endurance based atheletics,and delaying sleep.
CAUTION : Long term use of Guarana alters the blood sugar, which can cause nervousness, insomnia  and possible psychic habituation. Use vitamin   B supplements to counteract this possibility.
To prepare, powder guarana seed with a mortar and pestle or coffee grinder. Prepared like coffee the grounds can be used several times. Two nuts are recommended per cup.The powder can also be placed inside of medical capsules,useful if you don't like the taste.

For those who love to go for walks in the forests and meadows to see the wild flowers in bloom, here is a calendar with reference to approximate blooming dates. This list does not include all the wild flowers, but a selection of plants that are used as herbs (medicinal/edible). Of interest, I have included some poisonous plants as well to keep you on your toes! Blooming dates can vary in different localities, this reference is for Toronto and vicinity. 

APRIL - Flowers to look for include:

Bloodroot - Sanguinaria canadensis
Coltsfoot - Tussilago farfara
Prickly Ash - Zanthoxylum americanum

EARLY MAY 

Skunk Cabbage - Symplocarpus foetidus
Wild Ginger - Asarum canadense
Violets - Violas sp.
Dandelion - Taraxacum officinalis 
Blue Cohosh - Caulophyllum thalictroides

MID MAY

Shepherds Purse - Capsella bursa-pastoris Trilliums - Trillium sp. Marsh Marigolds - Caltha palustris Ground Ivy - Glechoma hederacea

LATE MAY
Common Chickweed - Stellaria medica Mandrake - Podophyllum peltatum White Baneberry - Actaea alba Red Baneberry - Actaea rubra Solomon Seal - Polygonatum pubescens Hawthorn - Crateagus sp. Chokecherry - Prunus virginiana False Elder - Sambucus pubens
I urge you, to make sure that you have identified the plant correctly. Knowledge of basic botany is essential, along with a field guide book that will aid you in proper identification. This requires practise and patience and attending herbwalks conducted by an experienced herbalist, will advance you further in this study.
it is also very important never to over pick the herbs, beginners tending to do this, being over-enthusiastic. You can quickly eradicate a species over a short period of time and then wonder later, why you cannot find that plant. I encourage you to cultivate the wild flowers as many of them are easy to propagate. You will be doing us all the good service of increasing supply, as well as introducing new and rare species to your area.
One of the harbingers of Spring is the flowering of Bloodroot and Coltsfoot. The white, delicate flowers of Bloodroot bloom very quickly, so do not be disappointed when you see the petals already fallen on the ground. It is not very common in many areas. Although it looks delicate, the root is potent and not often used by herbalists today. A bright red juice will stain your hands when the root is cut.
Coltsfoot's yellow flowers bloom earlier than the Dandelion. Both look similar but upon closer inspection the reddish scaly stem will differentiate between the two. Also the flowers bloom before the leaves appear. Coltsfoot prefers disturbed, open spaces such as gravel pits, creek banks and road sides. This is a very useful herb, the flowers can be made into wine or syrup, and the leaves make a pleasant tasting tea. Excellent for expelling mucus from the lungs in cases of asthma, colds and other pulmonary conditions.
Another early bloomer is the Prickly Ash with its inconspicuous greenish-yellowish flowers. This shrub or small tree bears thorns, and is a more effective barrier than a barbed-wire fence. Do not confuse this shrub with a Locust tree. The bark is used mainly as a stimulant for poor circulation. It is one of the few herbs that creates a tingling - like sensation in the mouth (some others are the Echinaceas and Aconite).
By May 1st two most unusual flowers have appeared; the Skunk Cabbage with its purplish inflorescence and the Wild Ginger with its reddish brown cup shaped flower. The Skunk Cabbage smells skunky when bruised. It is a very distinctive plant of the marshlands with huge cabbage-like leaves that grow up to 2 feet long. The roots have been used as an expectorant and combined with other herbs for spasmodic conditions. It is an acquired taste and belongs in the family Arum (Araceae) which also includes the Jack-in-the-Pulpit. Arum comes from the Arabian word ar, meaning fire. The fresh roots contain calcium oxalate crystals which when eaten, cause an intense burning sensation in xample of a herb (Skunk cabbage) that should be thoroughly dried before using. 
Wild Ginger is a jewel of the woods, newcomers are delighted when they smell and taste the ginger roots. Makes a good syrup being diaphoretic, very warming but emetic in large quantities. This is one wild flower that will grow well in the garden. The romantic Violets are familiar to everyone. Few people are aware that the leaves of the blue flowered varieties can be made into an ointment. Superb for cleansing old wounds, they have strong drawing-out properties. Do not pick all the leaves from a Violet plant for it is slow growing. The Birdfoot Violet (Viola pedata) is rare, so please, try not to pick this variety.
At this time the first Dandelions are blooming. Before they bloom, harvest the leaves and eat them. Together with Violet leaves, this will be your first wild green salad - along with a handful of chives from the garden. An excellent spring tonic and highly nutritious. Your Dandelion roots should have been harvested by now and made into a tincture or dried. Spring roots are bitter tasting and good for the liver whereas the Fall roots are sweet tasting and good for blood sugar conditions.
Blue Cohosh is sometimes tricky to find. It blends in well with the Wild Sarsaparilla and Red and White Baneberries. All these plants produce berries and they all bloom in Spring, growing in shady woodlands. With practise you will be able to see the bluish hue of the Cohosh, the tiny flowers greenish-yellow, the berries dark blue. The roots are used for female disorders, the Native peoples appropriately naming this plant Squaw Root or Papoose Root. Caution is required with this herb. It effects the blood pressure and is toxic in larger doses.
By now I'm wondering if I can complete the list of herbs, there are so many to mention! It is the middle of May, and the Shepherds Purse is growing strong and will bloom from now till fall time. This herb has a distinctive sulphur-like scent. Very popular among midwives for its astringency, it is a herb that is best used fresh. 
Birth Root or the Trillium is a delightful spring flower symbolizing gladness and the fresh hope of Spring. North American natives used the root to strengthen the uterus and aid childbirth. It is illegal to pick this plant, it being the provincial emblem of Ontario. Try growing the Trillium in your garden.
I've included the Marsh Marigolds because when the vibrant yellow flowers are blooming, this is a sure sign that the fiddleheads from the Ostrich fern (Pteretis pensylvanica) are soon ready to be picked. Please do not over pick and do not confuse it with the Bracken fern which is not as palatable.
I'm positive you will be mowing your lawn now. For those who have a wild cultured lawn with everything growing in it, I'm sure you will be cutting the Ground Ivy as well. Low growing, this mint variety with purple flowers has a distinctive musky-like scent. The Common Chickweed is another lawn loving plant with tiny white flowers. Both of these herbs are astringent, the Chickweed also having demulcent properties.
Of course there are the poisonous plants! How about the Red and White Baneberry. Their berries are very bright and showy, but certainly not edible. I might as well include the False Elder shrub, whose flowers are also white. The birds will eat the red berries but don't you try them. It is important to distinguish between the False and the medicinal Common Elder shrub (Sambucus canadensis). Basically, the Common Elder have flat-topped flower clusters and purplish-black berries while the red berried False Elder has elongate flower clusters and blooms way before the Common Elder. 
A graceful lily, the Solomon's Seal grows in shady woodlands, and with its greenish white bell-like flowers it is quite attractive. The rhizomes have been used at one time in cosmetics for toning the complexion and also eaten as a starchy food. I find it too pretty to pick, but if you grow this plant in your garden you will have ample supply. Often found growing close by is the False Solomon's Seal (Smilacina racemosa), its roots are demulcent and expectorant. Both of these plants are rarely used these days.
By the last week in May most of the fruit trees are blooming. To refresh your memory it was 25 degrees C on May 30 of last year. The Hawthorn shrub is blooming now, a very useful herb. Too bad the red berries are often wormy, you can never pick enough. It i
s a popular European remedy, (a heart tonic) and is rich in vitamin C. Chokecherry bark is another heart remedy but different in its effect. It is not a remedy to take for a long period of time. The bark is also used in cough remedies for its anti-spasmodic
 effect.
So I hope I have given you an idea of what you can find in bloom at Springtime. Remember, it is your responsibility to identify these herbs correctly taking care with their preparation and using the proper dosage. It is important that we learn to recognize 
the flowers and plants that are found in nature, in order to become more self-reliant and in tune with our environment. Plants are a part of the life force and only when we become aware of their presence in their natural habitat will we be able to share in 
and absorb, their true power and vitality.

The Heritage Seed Program  Heather Apple
At the turn of the century, a scientist compiled a list of 8,000 apple varieties available in the United States. When a new list was prepared in 1981, only 1,000 of those varieties could be found. This story can be repeated with the rest of our food crops. 
How is it that we have lost so much of the rich agricultural heritage bequeathed to us by our ancestors?
A serious situation is occurring around the world because people are no longer growing the old varieties  of crops that have been grown for generations. Instead, they are growing the new hybrids offered by the seed companies. When the old varieties are no l
onger grown they become extinct and we suffer a loss in the genetic diversity of our food crops.
The safety of our future food supply depends on maintaining this genetic diversity. If we have problems with disease or climate changes, we must have on hand varieties that carry a resistance to these problems and which can be used to breed resistance into 
our commercial varieties. Already, scientists are looking for varieties which show tolerance to acid rain and high ozone levels, as these conditions are causing billions of dollars worth of damage to crops in North America each year.
The Heritage Seed Program was started by the Canadian Organic Growers to help preserve our agricultural heritage. The Program consists of a network of growers dedicated to growing and exchanging the seeds of endangered varieties of vegetables, fruits, grain
s, herbs, and flowers. It is different from a seed company because when members adopt a variety, they take responsibility for growing, maintaining, multiplying it and saving seed to share with others. In this way, the survival of these endangered varieties 
is assured.
Fortunately, herbs have fared better than vegetables, fruits and flowers. I would still like to make them an important part of our Program. Over the years we have the potential for building up a rich collection of different species and varieties of herbs. W
e can share information on their properties and the best conditions for their growth. We can seek out rare and unusual varieties, and try to obtain seeds and cuttings of some of the old strains from long established herb gardens in North America and possibl
y Europe. If you are interested in helping this come about, I would invite you to become involved.
seng and Ginseng mixtures with help. It is also presumably 

HISTORY OF THE APOTHECARY GARDEN - Tamarra S. James
 
The idea of separating a garden into one for useful plants and another for beauty is a fairly recent innovation. Until about three hundred years ago, all plants were considered to be useful either as medicine or food, some in a practical way, others in a pu
rely symbolic application. Even the beauty of the plants themselves was thought to be medicinal, contributing to the general health of the individual by strengthening the spirit. giving comfort to the soul, and lifting depression of the mood. One must not l
ose sight of this principle when approaching the medieval garden, as in a very real sense, all gardens had their origin in the physic garden.  
Aside from the few basic medicinal plants grown by every housewife for the cure of common minor ills, much like we use the patented medicines of today, the bulk of the truly curative herbs were originally cultivated in the monastery gardens. Healing was, fr
om the earliest recorded times granted the distinction of being a religious practice. Each culture of the Pagan period had its healing gods, and in evolution, one of the greatest miracles attributed to the god of the new religion was the power to heal. 
The monks were, by and large a literate class of people where the greater population was not, so it is that the majority of the  hard information regarding growth, plant description, and garden lists has come from them. We can assume that the gardens of the
  doctors and apothecaries were similar if on a much smaller scale, as the monks had greater access to plants imported from other  parts of the world than the common man.  
The infirmary garden of a monastery generally consisted of several raised rectangular beds with walkways between them. Most of the plants were to be found in the Emperor Charlemagne's list of medicinal herbs which formed a part of his "Capitulare de Villis"
 a document from the ninth century which detailed the plants he wished his gardeners' to plant on his estates and which he encouraged all of his subjects to plant for the benefit of the nation. 
As society reached out of the Middle Ages into the fifteenth century, new plants were being brought back from the Americas.  Master Ion Gardener wrote the practical text, "The Feate of  Gardening". This was a set of instructions on cultivation,  grafting, a
nd the culture of herbs. All of the herbs listed in  Master Ion's treatise were old world, and had been commonly grown all over Europe for hundreds of years. It reached beyond the  folklore of plants and provided a sound scientific base for the  gardener to
 work from.  
In the sixteenth century we find the first wave of dramatic  change in the gardening consciousness of Europe since the  beginning of the Crusades. Prior to this there had been a limited number of herbs that had grown familiar to the herbalist through years 
of cultivation and use. Now we have almost daily expansion of the herbalists, as navigators and explorers carried back new seed and rootstock, along with documents containing native  applications of the medicines of their lands. Most significant in this inf
lux of new botanicals were those from the Americas. 
The feeling of the time is best illustrated by a quotation from  Holinshed, a historian of the sixteenth century. "It is a wonder also to see how many strange herbs, plants, and annual fruits are daily brought unto us from the Indies, Americas, Taprobane,  
Canary Isles and all parts of the world. I have seen in someone's garden to the number of three or four hundred of them, if not  more, the half of those names within forty years past we had no  manner of knowledge." 
The first botanic gardens as places of study were founded in  Padua Italy 1545 and in Oxford England 1621. These schools of  herbalism effectively took medicine out of the hands of the  monastery and placed it under the control of the educating  physicians.
 Doctors began to lecture on the healing properties of herbs, and their reliance on leeching, or bleeding, and chemical alchemy was largely replaced by the study of the new science of  herbal alchemy. 
It was in the seventeenth century, following this great influx of herbs, that the largest number of herbals were published. Many of them included the New World herbs as a matter of course. Most of these books were written by doctors of medicine, but they we
re  now leaning more heavily on the botanical properties and  characteristics of plants than on the previous, almost mystical  systems of humours, planetary influences, and doctrine of  signatures. 
Prior to this time, almost all herbals relied heavily on  Dioscorides volume entitled "De Materia Medica". It required the discovery of new plants to generate original research and the  development of herbal philosophy. There was still a problem in  that ma
ny of these authors were writing about plants they had  never seen or used. There existed popular engraving templates for the illustration of herbals, usually created by artists rather  than herbalists, and often from description instead of  observation. In
 some cases, such as John Gerard's "Great Herbal", or "History of Plants" the wrong illustration was placed in the  text, confusing the reader, and the dilettante herbalist, who  repeated the error in his own book. 
In 1577 an herbal of an entirely new type was translated from the Spanish into English. It was written by Nicholas Monardes, and  was entitled, "Joyfull Newes Out Of The Newe Founde Worlde". This book catalogued and described medicinal plants from America. 
 Then, in 1629 and 1640 a pair of books were published that  changed the entire face of herb lore. They are often considered  to be the greatest English books on herbs and plants ever  published. They were written by John Parkinson, and are entitled respect
ively, "Paradisi I Sole Paradisus Terrestris" and  "Theatrum Botanicum: The Theatre of Plants". More than 3,000  plants are described in this volume, and unlike their  predecessors,these books combine history, horticulture, botany,  and pharmacy all in one 
place. Parkinson is also the first herbal author to seriously attempt botanical classification into tribes or families of plants, and into classes. 
The herbals of Parkinson and Gerard went to the New World along  with the settlers, and a selection of seed and rootstock for  various medicinal herbs accompanied them. The ships returned to  England with native North American plants to be cultivated, and  
studied in the European botanical colleges and gardens.  The properties of many of the plants were learned from the Native Indians, which lead to the publication of John Josselyn's book,  "New England's Rarities Discovered" in 1672. This book included  "The
 Physical and Chyrurgical Remedies Wherewith The Natives  Constantly Use To Cure Their Distempers, Wounds and Sores". 
In 1728, John Bartram founded North America's first botanic  garden near Philadelphia. In 1765, he was commissioned 'Botanizer Royal For America' and began to travel and collect plants,  accompanied by his son, who was a major botanical artist. It is  throu
gh the labours of these two men that many North American  herbs came to the attention of the Swedish Botanist Carl  Linnaeus, and were classified by him. 
The study of the herb garden is in itself a study in the  evolution of botanical medicine and its development. In the  garden lists we see not just the herbs that were known to the  early doctor, but more importantly, those which were used by him.
A list of the herbs from John Bartram's garden examined in  relation to the monastery garden of the ninth century gives  indication of a greater range of subtlety in the mixing of  possible ingredients, and a wider set of applications than those
available to the lay brothers in their time. An asterix marks the
New World herbs.  

Melissa officinalis, Lemon Balm. 
Ocimum basilicum, Sweet Basil 
*Mondara didyma, Bee Balm. 
*Cimicifuga racemosa, Black Cohosh. 
*Eupatorium perfolatum, Boneset. 
Borago officinalis, Borage. 
Nepeta cataria, Catnip. 
Dianthus caryophyllus, Clove Pink. 
Vinca major, Periwinkle. 
Symphytum officinale, Comfrey. 
Digitalis purpurea, Fox Glove. 
Cochlearia amoracia, Horseradish. 
Pulmonaria officinalis, Lungwort. 
*Lobelia siphilitica, Great Lobelia. 
Calendula officinalis, Pot Marigold. 
Verbascum thapsus, Mullein. 
Paeonia officinalis, Peony. 
Myrtus communis, Myrtle. 
Hypericum perforatum, St. John's Wort. 
Teucrium marum, Germander. 
Galium odoratum, Sweet Woodruff. 
Tanacetum vulgare, Tansy. 
Artemisia dracunculus, French Tarragon. 
Dipsacus fullonum, Fuller's Teasle. 
*Asarum virginicum, Wild Ginger. 
*Gaultheria procumbens,  Wintergreen. 
Acorus calamus, Sweet Flag. 
Crocus sativa, Saffron Crocus. 
Allium schoenoprasum, Chives. 
Lonicora caprifolium, Woodbine Honeysuckle. 
Rubus fruticosus, Blackberry. 
*Hamamelis virginiana, Witch Hazel. 
Lindera benzoin,  Spice Bush.  Punica granatum, Pomegranate.  Cassia acutifolia, Alexandrian Senna.  Ilex aquifolium, English holly.  *Populus candicans, Poplar, Balm of Gilead.  *Cornus florida, Dogwood.  *Sassafras albidum, Sassafras.   

(The following herbs are also to be included in this garden.  Latin names can be found in the previous list: 
Chamomile, Lovage, Dill, Fennel,Horehound, Hyssop, French  Lavender, Pennyroyal, Mint, Rosemary, Rue, Agrimony, Sage, Thyme, Yarrow,Madonna Lily, Apothecary's Rose). 
It is likely that this is an optimistic list since weather  conditions in Philadelphia would have made the growth of plants  such as Pomegranate extremely difficult, although most of the  herbs would quite handily grow there. As you can see, the  majority o
f the herbs from the ninth century list are still  included, with the many additions of the New World herbs.  Today, many of these herbs are still grown for their use as  pharmaceuticals and even as medicine advances into the "Modern  age" it remains rooted
 with the herbs, in the origins of the  apothecary garden. 
