DESCRIPTION : Bayberry is a member of the wax myrtle family noted for the plants ability to enrich the soil through nitrogen fixing bacteria found in its root nodules.

Leaves are oblong or lanceolate, sparingly toothed. Above, they are dark green and shiny, paler below. They are dotted on both sides and are 1-4 inches long. The leaves are fragrant when rubbed. The flowers are unisexual and have no calyx or corolla and appear in early spring. Berries appear in small groups in midsummer. A waxy secretion covers the leathery foliage and berries.

The bark is brownish-grey and smooth.

It is a native American shrub, growing up to 40 ft in optimum conditions, but is usually low and spreading.

Myrica pensylvanica is the northern variety, hardy to zone 2. This Myrica grows to 8 feet high. Pale green flowers appear in May. In colder areas this plant is deciduous, but it acts as an evergreen in mild climates.

CULTIVATION : Bayberry does best in full sun. It prefers soil that is sandy and infertile. Bayberry is very tolerant of salt and may be planted on road sides that are sanded and salted in winter. Soil pH 5.0-6.0. Hardy Zones 2-6.

COLLECTION : Berries gathered from September to early December. It is best to gather them in early morning after dew evaporates and before the sun reduces the oil content of leaves. Leaves snipped directly from the bush should be taken from the upper part of the branch near the terminal bud to ensure bushy growth. Leave whole to retain full flavor. The root bark is gathered in late autumn. Wash, then separate the bark from the root by pounding with a hammer, then dry thoroughly. When totally dry, break into smaller pieces, (it will be brittle). Keep in well-sealed, dark jars.

PARTS OF THE PLANT USED : Root bark, berries, leaves of this plant are used.

PLANT ANALYSIS : This plant contains tannin and gallic acids, acrid and astringent resins, volatile oil, starch, albumen, and an acid resembling saponin.

Myristic, palmitic and stearic acids are found in the wax.

MEDICINAL USES : Myrica acts as a general and special stimulant to the mucous membranes. It does not increase body temperature. It is also aids in digestion.

Bayberry increases uturine contractions. This helps in cases of uterine hemorrhages due to miscarriages or other causes. Cotton soaked with a solution of tea can be used to pack the uterus. It will help excessive menstruation and hemorrhage.

Bayberry bark, when chewed, will ease the pain of toothache.

A tea made from the leaves may be used to treat fevers and diarrhea, scrofula, etc.

Tea from bayberry has also been recommended for sore throats, and jaundice. It is considered excellent for gums.

Leucorrhoea is helped by a douche.

Sniffing powdered bayberry is supposed to relieve nasal congestion.

Externally, when the powdered bark is used, it acts as a stimulant to indolent ulcers. If used in a poultice, bayberry should be combined with elm.

Ulcers, cuts bruises, and insect bites are helped by using a poultice made of the root of this plant.

MEDICINAL ACTION : Bayberry is an astringent, a circulatory stimulant, and diaphoretic. Bayberry is emetic in large doses.

DOSAGE : In a decoction, put 1 teaspoonful of the bark into a cup of cold water. Bring this to a boil. Let steep for 15 minutes. Drink 3 times a day.

To use the powdered root bark, add it to 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat and simmer for about 10 minutes. Do not strain. Stir well before drinking. Take up to 2 cups per day. It may cause nausea and slight pain in some people. This will pass and the stimulant action will take effect.

In a tincture, take 1-3 ml 3 times a day.

MAGICKAL USES : Use Myrica in any spell or ritual for drawing money.

HISTORY : Alexander introduced the medicinal use of the bayberry wax in 1722. It has been used for softening shaving cream and in surgeon's soap plasters.

An early American herbal states that there is not an ailment that bayberry, if wisely given,would not relieve.

Bayberry has been used in folk medicine for its astringent properties as well as it stimulant, and tonic properties.

It is also used to make candles. It takes 1 bushel of berries to make 4 pounds of wax.

LORE : None found

CULINARY : The aromatic leaves are used to flavor chowders, bisques, fish and game dishes and may be used as a substitute for bay leaf.

THE WAX : The wax melts at 47-49 degrees C. (116.6 to 120.2 F.). It is hard and brittle, more so than beeswax.