Posts Tagged ‘Herbs’

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Medinical Monday – Echinacea

Monday, October 17th, 2011

Echinacea

(Echinacea Augustifolia)

Echinacea is a Perennial plant from the the daisy family, Asteraceae. Native to North America, it grows to a height of 2-3 feet.

It was widely used by the Plains Indians for its medicinal qualities as a treatment for symptoms caused by the common cold. In the 1930s it became popular in both Europe and America as a herbal medicine.


Photo by BarefootGardener

Echinacea is produced in a variety of forms:

  • Pills, liquid, chewable tablets and instant tea.
  • Echinacea may be combined with other plant extracts to increase their effectiveness.
  • A combination of Echinacea, wild indigo, water hemp and arnica have been proven to be especially effective for boosting immunity.

Therapeutic Effect:

  • Echinacea contains several ingredients that exert an overall stimulating effect on the immune system.
  • It activates the liver, lymph nodes and mucous membranes, that enhances the body’s overall ability to fight infections.
  • Echinacea also contains substances that have wound healing and germicidal properties.

Components: (2 main ingredients)
Store-bought preparations are usually made from the flower, leaves and root.

  • echinacosides (in the flower and root)
  • polysaccharide heteroxylan (in the leaves)

Echinacea compresses
Echinacea possesses germ killing and wound healing properties.

  • Soak a damp cotton cloth in a solution containing 1 part Echinacea to 2 parts water and apply gently to the affected area.
  • A compresses can help to relieve swollen glands, inflammations of the veins (phlebitis), infected cuts, skin abrasions, burns and inflamed insect bites.

Side effects:
There have been no reports of side effects. However, take caution when taking Echinacea. Many preparations contain alcohol to increase shelf life, children should be given pure pressed juice, lozenges or chewable tablets.

Latest research findings:
Extreme physical exertion can weaken the immune system, increasing susceptibility to infections. Many sports physicians recommend that anyone undergoing endurance training take Echinacea for a day or so after extreme physical exertion to strengthen the immune system.

It can also be used for the treatment of coughs, sneezing, hoarseness, sore throat, tonsillitis, sinus infections, skin inflammations, minor wounds, bladder or kidney infections, gynaecologic infections and general immune deficiency.

Duration of use:
Continuous use is not advised. Some studies suggest that it is only effective up to 10 days.

Tip: As soon as fever blisters begin, treat with Echinacea. Place a few drops of pressed Echinacea juice on a cotton ball or swab and gently apply  to the infected area. This remedy can halt the progression of the lesions or prevent them all together.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Mace

Wednesday, October 5th, 2011

Mace

Botanical Name: Myristica Fragrans

Folk Names: Jatiphala, Jatiphalam, Jatikosha, Jatipatri, Jatipatra, Jaiphal, Jayapatri, Javitri, Bicuiba Acu, Qoust, Sadhika, Wohpala


Photo by yumievriwan

Mace is the the bright, red aril which surrounds the nutmeg seed. Nutmeg is known for it’s abuse as a popular recreational psychoactive drug. Based on human study, mace extract, when used as part of a chewing gum, is said to decrease plaque and gingivitis. Not well studied in humans, mace extract may also have antibacterial, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer effects. It is also popular in India, for treating measles. Not only is it used for medicine, but also in the kitchen and magic.

Deities: Ochun, Oya

Element: Air (Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Visions, Wisdom)

Gender: Masculine

Planet: Mercury (Divination, Mental Powers, Physic Powers, Wisdom)

Powers: Mental & Psychic Powers

Medicinal Uses: Mace has been used in many Chinese and Indian traditional medicines to treat the nervous and digestive system. The compounds in this spice, myristicin and elemicin have stimulant properties on the brain.  The oil contains eugenol, and in dentistry, has been used to relieve toothaches and bad breath. It is also used to reduce muscular and rheumatic pain in joints. A fresh decoction with honey has been used to relieve nausea, gastritis, indigestion ailments.

Magical Uses: Carry Mace blade’s in a charm/sachet for luck, or to improve the intellect. Burn in incense to increase psychic power, or for creative work.

Other Uses: Mace has a delectable flavor, and will give a saffron-like orange-red color to the food items.

Warning: Mace is safe to take in small doses. In large amounts, it may result in hallucinations and can even cause cancer.

References:

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Garlic

Monday, August 15th, 2011

Garlic

(Allium Sativum)

Garlic has been valued for its healing properties and ability to increase the body’s strength and energy, and is said to help prevent heart disease, stroke and hypertension. The essential oils in garlic have strong, antibiotic, anti-fungal and antiviral properties. The medicinal benefits make a delicious seasoning for so many foods, just add chopped raw garlic to cooked meats, poultry and vegetables or use it in salads. Crushed garlic in oil is excellent for a dressing or pickle whole garlic cloves for a condiment. Garlic in salve form helps ease neuralgia, joint pain, sprains, corns and other skin afflictions.

The ancient Greeks placed garlic at cross-roads as a supper for the goddess Hecate, or for protection to ward off demons. Greek midwives would hang garlic cloves in birthing rooms to keep evil spirits away. Athletes would take large amounts of garlic before competition, and soldiers would consume garlic before going into battle. Roman soldiers ate garlic to inspire and give them courage. Egyptian slaves were fed garlic to keep up strength. Tibetan monks were forbidden from entering monasteries if they had eaten garlic. Nicholas Culpeper, (botanist/herbalist/astrologer) linked garlic with the planet Mars. A fiery planet also connected with blood. Dreaming that there is “garlic in the house” is known to mean you will discover hidden secrets.


Photo by Sebastian Mary

Help for colds:

Fresh garlic mixed with honey is an excellent home remedy for colds, hoarseness and inflammation of the throat.

  • With a press or a mini food processor, crush 1 oz. of fresh garlic cloves.
  • Mix garlic with 1 cup of honey.
  • Let the mixture sit for 1 hr to infuse the honey with the garlic’s essential oils.
  • Store in a cool place.

The first sign of a cold, take 1-2 tsp. of the mixture. (repeat every hour thereafter) This  remedy is also effective for relieving severe chest congestion and painful coughing.

Therapeutic effects:
The sulfur in garlic’s essential oil makes a good defense for killing germs. Once garlic is ingested, it is absorbed into the blood stream and then diffused through various organs. The skin, intestines, lungs and urinary system profit highly from it’s healing properties.

Components:
Garlic is high in essential oils, the principal active agent is allicin. This is what gives garlic it’s scent, as well as healing properties. Garlic also contains calcium, selenium, potassium and zinc.

Fighting heart disease and stroke:
Garlic lowers LDL (“the bad cholesterol”) and raises HDL (“the good cholesterol”), this helps prevent buildup of plaque in the coronary arteries. It also helps blood clots from forming. This is what protects against heart attack and stroke.

Pickled Garlic:

Ingredients:

  • 5 or 6 bulbs of garlic
  • 1 small ginger-root
  • 1 tbsp. salt
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 peppercorns
  • 3 tbsp. plus 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 cup white wine vinegar

Preparation:

  • Peel the garlic.
  • Peel and slice the ginger.
  • Place 1 qt. of water in a saucepan, add the salt and bring to a boil.
  • Add the garlic and simmer for 3-5 min; drain well.
  • Place the garlic, bay leaf and peppercons in a small jar with a screw on cap.
  • In the same saucepan, combine ½ cup of water with the ginger, sugar and vinegar. b(boil the mixture)
  • Immediately pour it over the garlic.
  • Store the closed jar at room temperature for 1 week.

For intestinal Upset:
Garlic has been used to help treat ulcers. Eat 7-9 cloves of garlic throughout the day, with milk or spread on bread. (not recommended for pregnant women or nursing mothers)

For infections:
For athlete’s foot, warts, skin infections and acne, rub (freshly mashed) garlic over the affected area with a piece of gauze.

Kitchen Hints:

When buying garlic:

  • choose solid, firm bulbs.
  • The outer skin should be taut, unbroken and white or violet in color.
  • Avoid bulbs with soft or damp spots.
  • Store garlic in a cool, dry place. (it will keep for several weeks)
  • A ceramic garlic keeper is best for storage because it lets air circulate.

Braided strands of garlic are more likely to spoil before use. It loses its antibacterial effect when cooked or aged for more than 24 hrs hrs. (garlic is best eaten when raw)

If not prepared properly, garlic in oil preparations can cause botulism. When making homemade garlic oils, refrigerate and keep no longer than 10-14 days.

Tip: Chew parsley, thyme, or peppermint immediately after eating garlic to avoid bad breath.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Lady’s Mantle

Wednesday, August 10th, 2011

Lady’s Mantle

Botanical Name: Alchemilla Vulgaris

Folk Names: Bear’s Foot, Leontopodium, Lion’s Hook, Nine Hooks, Stellaria


Photo by amortize

Folklore: The dew gathered from the leaves, (which is said to be a key ingredient in several alchemical formulas) was used as a beauty lotion. Lady’s Mantle’s first association with the worship is that of the Earth Mother, but as Christianity spread, (like many pagan symbols) it was absorbed and eventually became associated with the Virgin Mary.

Deities: Kanaloa, Kane, Lono

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendship, Love, Youth)

Powers: Love

Medicinal Uses: Lady’s mantle is used for treating stomach ailments, diarrhea, excess water retention, muscle contractions and diabetes. It is also used as a gargle to relieve inflammation of the mouth and throat. Other uses include relieving painful menstruation and symptoms of menopause. Lady’s mantle is also used on the skin for treating wounds, ulcers and rashes, as well as to stop superficial bleeding. Some use lady’s mantle in bath water for alleviating lower abdominal problems.

Magical Uses: Lady’s mantle is used in love spells, potions and amulets.

Ritual Uses: Place a single flower in your hair or weave in a crown to find love. (Visualize the flowery connection to the Goddess of love.)

Other Uses – Lady’s mantle is most famous today as a garden plant. It is also used in homeopathy.

References:

  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Belladonna

Monday, August 8th, 2011

Belladonna

Botanical Name: Atropa Belladonna or Atropa Bella-Donna

Belladonna (also called Deadly Nightshade or Devil’s Berries) is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Solanaceae family. Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia, the foliage and berries are extremely toxic. The toxins are tropane alkaloids, containing scopolamine and hyoscyamine, which cause delirium and hallucinations.

Belladonna has a history of use in medicine, cosmetics, and poison. It was used as an anesthetic before the Middle Ages. The ancient Romans used it as a poison on arrow tips. Both the wife of Emperor Augustus and the wife of Claudius used it to murder contemporaries. The name “Bella-Don means “beautiful woman” in Italian, and the genus name “atropa” comes from Atropos, one of the three Fates in Greek mythology.


Photo by ilovepics11

Belladonna’s most powerful effect is on the heart, lungs and blood vessels, as well as on the brain and nervous system.

It is an extremely poisonous plant, eating its cherry like fruit can lead to severe illness and in the worst cases, death. In modern pharmacology, the chemical atropine plays an important role. Small doses are incorporated into many heart medications. In homeopathic remedies, Belladonna is also dispensed in diluted, non toxic doses. Homeopaths can safely prescribe it for a broad range of purposes. (i.e. quick relief for fever, coughs, headaches and the flu) It is best given to those with particular character traits. (see below)

Belladonna Type:

Those most likely to benefit are extremely hot-headed and intelligent. Disease normally strikes unexpectedly, like a bolt of lightening. Symptoms can be relieved fairly quick, if treated correctly. Signs are a very flushed face and shiny skin.

Are you a Belladonna type? Check all that apply.

  • You are prone to anxiety and have feelings of distress, agitation and uneasiness.
  • Your face is strongly flushed by heat.
  • Throbbing sensations in your head.
  • You are nervous and easily excited.
  • Restless sleep and nightmares.
  • Arms and legs are cold, when your head is warm.

If you checked more than three, see information below on how Belladonna can benefit you.

Therapeutic Effects:
Belladonna has a calming effect on the central nervous system, the linings of the brain and spinal cord, the upper respiratory passages and the digestive tract, when used in its homeopathic form. It alleviates restlessness, anxiety and insomnia, and may also help to diminish painful sensitivity to light, touch or pressure.

Principle homeopathic uses:
Belladonna is commonly used to relieve facial flushing, fevers, chills and profuse sweating. It is also beneficial when used for tonsillitis, sore throats, fever induced hallucinations, severe headaches and PMS.

Preparation for the remedy:
The leaves, roots and fruit of the belladonna plant are ground up and mixed with alcohol to form the basic tincture, which is then diluted. It is recommended in a potency of 30 C.

Relief from nerve pain:
Belladonna may help alleviate nerve pain that comes on suddenly, and migrates to different areas of the body. It can subside just as fast as it comes on. Pain may be sharp or stabbing and can sometimes be temporarily relieved by moving the afflicted area. There may also be redness and swelling of the joints.

Prescribed for: Fever, gastritis, gout, headaches, hallucinations and insomnia, inflammations of the brain or spinal cord, stomach and digestive upset, menstrual cramps, manic depression and poisoning,

Indications:

Mood:

  • Intense anxiety
  • Sensitive to noise and light
  • Insomnia and daytime sleepiness
  • Not wanting to be touched

Head:

  • Dry mouth and lack of taste
  • Inflamed mucous membranes
  • Loss of voice, dry throat
  • Bloody secretions from the nose
  • Hypersensitive scalp
  • Hot, throbbing sensations in the head

Eyes:

  • Glassy eyes with dilated pupils
  • Dry, red eyes
  • Extreme sensitivity to sunlight or glare
  • Pulsing pains in the eyes

Skin:

  • Burning sensations in the skin
  • Bright and shiny skin, with some redness
  • Painful abscesses and inflammations; warts
  • Dry skin; inflamed areas may be sweaty

Extremities:

  • Cold hands or feet (though the rest of the body, particularly the face, feels hot
  • Inflammation in the upper arms or legs
  • Acute pains in the arms; swollen joints
  • Muscle spasms; twitching and jerking

Before a homeopath can prescribe Belladonna, he/she must know if your symptoms are affected by the conditions listed below.

Symptom Gauge:

Better:

  • Bending forward
  • Dark Places
  • Rest
  • Sweating & heat

Worse:

  • Cold
  • Drafts
  • Light
  • Motion or touch
  • Noise

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Kava-Kava

Wednesday, August 3rd, 2011

Kava-Kava

Botanical Name: Piper Methysticum

Folk Names: Intoxicating Pepper, Ava, Ava Pepper, Ava Root, Awa Root


Photo by wallyg

Piper methysticum, means “intoxicating pepper.” It is a mild hypnotic, used traditionally in Polynesia for ceremonial purposes. Young people with strong teeth would chew the tough roots, it was then strained and added to water or coconut oil.

The tonic was drunk at peace ceremonies and other ritual occasions to welcome visiting dignitaries. It was not only used for ceremonial consumption, but also to relax social barriers and enhance social cohesion. Kava-Kava was used as an Offering to deities, it was taken to enhance visions or to increase the power when a priest wished to identify the spiritual cause of an illness.

Deities: Kanaloa, Kane, Lono

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Saturn (Endings, Exorcisms, Longevity, Visions)

Powers: Endings, Exorcisms, Longevity, Visions

Medicinal Uses: Kava has been used for anxiety and stress. It is sometimes chewed to relieve throat pain, as Kava produces a “numbing” effect on the tongue and throat. Kava is first chewed in the back of the mouth, (for 5 to 10 minutes) while swallowing the saliva and kavalactones released from the process. It produces an effect similar to that of an over the counter chloraseptic spray to alleviate sore throat by numbing it. It has been banned in Germany, Switzerland, and Canada because of liver injury.  A public safety alert about Kava has been issued by the US FDA  due to liver problems.

Magical Uses: Kava is used to protect you and your home, and invite in good luck.

Ritual Uses: A small amount (chopped root) sprinkled around the house will keep out unwanted visitors. Hang a small piece on your door or put in an amulet to invite in good luck. To induce visions, soak a 1/2 gallon of water mixed with roots and leaves overnight in the refrigerator. Strain and drink a cup before you meditate.

Warning: to much infusion can damage kidneys and liver.

References:

  • The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Magical Plants by Susan Gregg
  • Medicinenet.com
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Jasmine

Wednesday, July 27th, 2011

Jasmine

Botanical Name: Jasminum officinale, Jamsminum grandiflorum, Jasminum odoratissimum

Folk Names: Anbar, Jessamin, Moonlight on the Grove, Peot’s Jessamine, Yasmin


Photo By snopek

Jasmine is a woody perennial. The shrub climbs up to 50 feet, with green stems and leaves. J. grandiflorum is mostly used in herbal remedies, while J. officinale is used in aromatherapy.

In Europe, jasmine was used to aid in childbirth. The oil would facilitate birth by “warming the womb.” Burning Jasmine leaves would attract wealth and bring money. If the leaves were burned in the bedroom, it was believed that it would result in  prophetic dreams.

Deities: Diana, Vishnu

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendship, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Moon (Fertility, Healing, Peace, Prophetic Dreams, Sleep)

Powers: Love, Money, Prophetic Dreams

Medicinal Uses: The Jasmine flower is used as a cardiac sedative, and also helps with anxiety, cancer (bone, lymph nodes and breast), migraines, paralysis, wounds, ulcers, constipation, dry skin, insomnia, hysteria, hypertension, exhaustion, easing depression and so forth.

Magical Uses: Jasmine is used for love and protection. Dried Jasmine flowers are added to sachets, charms and incense to attract a spiritual love. (as apposed to a physical love) The flowers will also bring wealth and money if carried, burned or worn. It’s beautiful aroma is soothing and helps to lift spirits. Dreaming of Jasmine is said to foretell good fortune and good news for lovers. (Perhaps an early marriage)  It will also cause prophetic dreams if burned in the bedroom and helps with insomnia. Storing Jasmine and Quartz crystals together promote new/creative ideas.

Ritual Uses: Use in rituals when you wish to conjure the feminine properties of the Moon. It is also excellent to burn during meditation.

References:

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Clematis

Monday, July 25th, 2011

Clematis (Vitalba)

Clematis (also called Traveler’s joy or Old man’s beard) is a flowering vine of the Ranunculaceae family. The vines can grow up to 100 feet long and can completely blanket trees and other plants. Each  blossom is made up of 4 greenish-white fluffy sepals and feathery filaments that turn silvery and thread-like in the fall.


Photo By Shotaku

Clematis can be a great remedy for someone who tends to live in a dream world, and takes little interest in day-to-day events. It also helps with people that may be frustrated with life and have unrealistic ideals. It can stimulate creative potential and encourage a person to envision their dreams and become focused.

Taking the remedy

  • Add a few drops of clematis-flower essence to a glass of non-sparkling spring water, sip throughout the day.
  • Pour a few drops of the clematis water into a small dropper bottle. (preferably glass) Put a few drops under your tongue several times a day.

Wildflower medley
For those who live in the past, a flower-essence mixture of clematis and honeysuckle is helpful.

  • Add 2 drops of each to a bottle filled with 1oz. of non-sparkling spring water. Put a few drops under your tongue 4 or more times a day.

The clematis temperament

  • In a daze all the time
  • Avoids activities
  • Becoming addictive to reading or watching TV
  • Daydreaming about the perfect future, but not taking action
  • Feeling you are artistic and creative, but wont take action because you are more concerned with home and family
  • Uninterested in practical matters
  • When you are ill, you don’t try to regain your health

Children who need Clematis
Clematis increases a child’s attention span and promotes endurance and focus.

  • Sleeps too much
  • Absentminded
  • Falls a lot
  • Can get stuck and tear clothing

Supportive measures

  • A fertile imagination is a special one, but illusions can leave you feeling empty
  • Set a reasonable goal, find a way to achieve it
  • Have down to earth hobbies (i.e. cooking, gardening)
  • Have creative activities (i.e. painting, drawing, knitting)

Vision without action is merely a dream. Action without vision just passes the time. Vision with action can change the world! – Joel Barker

Sign of clematis state

  • Daydreaming & Lethargic
  • Neglectful & Absentminded
  • Lack of Sleep & Tired
  • Always in a Fantasy World
  • Poor Memory
  • Poor Vision and Hearing
  • Lack of Creativity

Signs of transformation

  • Renewed Creativity
  • Grounded
  • Energy
  • Concentration & Focus
  • Spirited & Enthusiastic
  • Realistic Thinking & Attitude
  • Clear Minded
  • Able to Find Solutions to Problems

Tip: Clematis helps relieve postpartum depression. It can also help bring you back to reality when you feel as if you are outside of yourself.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician or certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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Hump Day Herbs – Indian Paint Brush

Wednesday, July 20th, 2011

Indian Paint Brush

Botanical Name: Castilleja

Folk Names: Snake’s Maiden, Snakes Matches


Photo by kloppster

Native to North America, Indian Paintbrush is a genus of about 200 species of annual and perennial herbaceous plants.

According to Native American legend, a young brave became frustrated in his attempts to paint a sunset with his war-paints. He then asked for guidance from the Great Spirit. The Great Spirit gave him paintbrushes laden with sunset colors. With these gifts, he painted his masterpiece. He then left the spent brushes in fields across the landscape. The brushes sprouted into the vibrant reds, scarlets, yellows and purples of the Indian paintbrush.

Deities: Venus, Isis, Luna, Aphrodite, Manito

Element: Water (Fidelity, Friendships, Healing, Love, Meditation, Prophetic Dreams, Purification, Sleep)

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Venus (Beauty, Fidelity, Friendship, Love, Youth)

Powers: Love

Medicinal Uses: Indian Paintbrush is known to treat skin diseases, kidney disorders and leprosy. It is also effective in treatment of excessive menstrual discharge, and also to prevent conception. During pregnancy, a decoction of the plant is used to keep the baby small, which leads to an easier labor. It is also used as a blood purifier. Taken over a long period of time, it is said to be an effective treatment for sexually transmitted diseases. It is also used to treat stomach aches.

Magical Uses: To attract love, Wear a few petals in an amulet or carry it in a sachet. It is excellent if you want to connect with your spirit, repel fear, and release negative thinking.

Ritual Uses: The flowers can be used as a symbolic broom, “sweep” your house clean to remove negativity and fill your home with both happiness and love.  A flower on your altar will help remind you of the loving nature of the universe, as well as connecting you with your divine nature.

Other Uses: The Ojibwe made a hair-wash from Indian Paintbrush to make their hair shiny and full. It is also used as a treatment for rheumatism. Nevada Indians would use the plant to treat sexually-transmitted diseases and to strengthen the immune system.

References:

  • The Complete Illustrated Encyclopedia of Magical Plants
  • Scenic USA
  • Scott Cunningham: Cunningham’s Encyclopedia of magical herbs

Note: Consult with a Physician or a certified herbologist if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the herb listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all, have a great day!

Lisa

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Medicinal Monday – Lavender Oil

Monday, July 18th, 2011

Lavender Oil


Photo by lokenre

Native to the Mediterranean, lavender is primarily cultivated in Provence, in the south of France. It usually grows in open fields and stony mountain slopes. Today, it can be found throughout southern Europe, Australia, and the United States. Lavender is a short shrub that grows to a height of roughly 24 inches. When in bloom, lavender’s blue-violet flowers gives the herb its aromatic scent. The flowers are aligned in spirals of 6 – 10 blossoms, forming interrupted spikes above the foliage.

The finest oil is distilled from Lavandula officinalis, a species of lavender that grows only at altitudes above 3000 ft. Lavender contains a mixture of gerniol, cincole and coumarin, which produce the most potent medicinal form of the oil. These ingredients are also valuable for the treatment of inflammatory conditions and pain, as well as relief from digestive problems and various skin irritations. It is a powerful antiseptic containing more than 200 compounds that are active against fungi, viruses and other microbes. The oil is also beneficial for balancing emotions. It has a calming effect on people people who are agitated or have sleep disorders, as well as restoring the vitality in people suffering from nervous exhaustion.

For breasts:
Lavender oil can be rubbed onto breasts to help tone and tighten the skin.

  • Add 2 drops of lavender oil to 3 tbsp. of a base oil, such as sweet almond. (apply to breasts daily)

For insomnia:
Lavender oil has a calming effect, it can be used to induce sleep when you are stressed or anxious.

  • Put a few drops of lavender oil on an aromatherapy stone (available in most herbal stores) and place it in your bedroom. Its soothing effects will help you sleep soundly through the night.

For skin irritations:
Lavender water promotes good circulation in the skin, and prevents infections of the sebaceous glands.

  • For a facial lotion, add 3 drops of lavender oil to 1 quart of distilled water, dab on daily.

For nerve pain:
Lavender oil helps to relieve pain and inflammation due to neuralgia.

  • Mix 10 drops of the oil with 2 tbsp. of St. John’s Wort oil, gently rub it into the affected areas for pain relief.

For sunburn relief:

  • Add 10 drops of lavender oil to 4 ounces of water. Store the liquid in a plastic spray bottle and spritz on sunburned skin as needed.

Applications:

External Use

  • For middle ear infections, saturate a cotton ball in olive oil, drip 5 drops of lavender oil onto it and place it on the outer part of the infected ear. The lavender oil will help relieve the pain and inhibit the inflammation that often accompanies ear infections.
  • For stomach aches, cramping or colic. Combine 30 drops of lavender oil, 10 drops of chamomile oil and 3 ½ oz. of cold pressed olive oil in a bottle and shake vigorously. Massage this essential oil mixture gently onto the abdomen for 10 min, using broad circular movements. Rest for a brief period and then apply a hot water bottle to the affected area for 30 mins.

Around the house:

  • Add several drops of lavender oil to the washer’s final rinse cycle, or scent a cloth with a few drops of lavender oil and throw it in the dryer to freshen a load of newly laundered clothes.
  • Place a handful of lavender buds in an old sock, knot it and store it in a drawer with your linens.

To purify Indoor air:

  • 4 drops lavender
  • 2 drops bergamot oil
  • 2 drops lemon oil

Place this mixture of essential oils in a simmer pot to help freshen the air. The oils have a powerful cleansing action. The fresh scent also exerts an uplifting effect on the mind, body and spirit. Lavender combines well with citrus oil.

Tip: For an aromatic lavender bath, use a natural emulsifier to help the oil blend well with the bathwater. Mix 5 drops of lavender oil with 1 cup of heavy cream or 1 tsp. of honey and add it to the tub.

Lavender oil is one of the few essential oils that is safe to use “neat” or undiluted, on the skin. Keep a small bottle in your kitchen cabinet to treat first degree burns. One to two drops directly on the burn will relieve pain and reduce the risks of blisters.

References:

  • The Complete Guide To Natural Healing

Note: Consult with a Physician if you are seeking medical remedies. The information is not intended as medical advice. PagansWorld.org is not liable for the misuse of the information listed above.

Thanks for stopping by! Well wishes to you all and have a great day!

Lisa

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