Page 143 - Lost Book Remedies

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies

Harvesting: Cut the flowering tops Warning: In ordinary doses, Valerian exerts a
off as they appear. This enables a better quieting and soothing influence upon the brain
development of the root. In the first year, and nervous system. However, in large re-
many of the young plants do not flower but peated doses it can produce pain in the head,
produce a luxuriant crop of leaves. Harvest heaviness, and stupor. It can become addictive,
the roots in autumn. Dig deeply to get the only use when needed.
entire root system, planting some back Do not use during pregnancy, as its ef-
for future harvests. Slice the roots fects are unknown.
into small sections and dry for future
use.

Violets,

Viola spp. including

Viola sororia (common

violet) and Viola odorata

(sweet violet)

Wild violets are beautiful little plants that are both ed-
ible and medicinal. Pansies are also edible. They are in
the Violaceae (Violet) Family.

Identification: Wild violets are short plants, usu-
ally only 4 to 6 inches (10 cm to 15 cm) high. They grow Medicinal Use: Wild violets are an excellent tonic
in clumps with purple, blue, yellow, or white flowers for helping the body detoxify. They strengthen the im-
growing on a leafless stalk. Each flower has 5 parts of mune system and stimulate the lymphatic system.
unequal size. The flowers bloom from early spring into They help the body eliminate waste and toxins in the
the early summer. Heart-shaped basal leaves grow body. Violets are cooling, moistening and relieve pain.
from its underground root. The leaf margin is toothed They work as a blood cleanser and are safe for elders
but rounded. and children. I use the flowers and leaves internally as
These low-growing, perennial plants prefer shady ar- a tea or tincture and externally for skin conditions.
eas, but can grow in sunny locations. The native wild- Sore Throats, Colds, Sinus Infections, and
flower favors woods, thickets, and stream banks. Other Respiratory Conditions: Wild violets
Edible Use: Both the flowers and leaves are edible. strengthen the immune system and reduce inflamma-
Younger leaves and flowers are tender for fresh eating. tion in the respiratory system. Its mucilaginous prop-
Older leaves need to be cooked in soups or stews to ten- erties are useful in soothing the bronchial passages and
derize them and relieve some of their bitterness. The works as an expectorant to remove mucous from the
leaves have a mucilaginous texture that can thicken body. The herb is useful to treat sore throats, colds, si-
liquids. Use sweet violets in sweet dishes. The roots nus infections and other respiratory and bronchial
and seeds are not eaten and may cause nausea and conditions. I like to use Wild Violet Tea for these con-
vomiting. ditions, but eating the herb is also effective.
Freshly picked flowers are beautiful as a garnish in sal- Whooping Cough and Dry Hacking Cough:
ads, on cakes or pastries, or other foods. Flowers and Wild violet has been used for centuries as a bronchial
leaves are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxi- remedy for dry coughs and other bronchial conditions.
dants and phytochemicals. As a tonic for the lymphatic system and immune

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