| HORSETAIL: Equisetum arvense
Parts Used: Above ground portion. Properties: Alterative, Antibiotic, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Hemostatic, Nutritive, Vulnerary. Internal Uses: Acne, Arthritis, Bedwetting, Blood Loss, Catarrh, Diarrhea, Dysentery, Eczema, Edema, Fingernail Weakness, Fractures, Hemorrhage, Incontinence, Injury, Kidney Stones, Ligament Tear, Osteoporosis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ulcers Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture Horsetail is very rich in minerals and can be taken interally to speed the mending of bones, flesh and cartilage, as well as to improve blood coagulation time. Its high silica content strengthens the body's connective tissues. Topical Uses: Conjunctivitis, Gingivitis, Leukorrhea, Wounds Topical Applications: Use as a poultice for wounds, douche for leukorrhea, eyewash for conjunctivitis and mouthwash for gingivitis. Contraindications: Large amounts can be toxic due to the presence of the alkaloid equisetin. If eaten over a long period of time, it can cause a deficiency in vitamin B-1, as the plant contains an enzyme that destroys B-1. However, cooking and tincturing Horsetail destroys that enzyme, making the Horsetail safe. Horsetail should only be collected in the spring so as to minimize excessive selenium content. Long term use can have irritating effects on the kidneys. Magikal uses: Strengthening one�s will, spiritual healing, releasing, honoring Epona and other horse Goddesses KAVA: iper methysticum Parts Used: Root, upper rhizome. Properties: Analgesic, Anticonvulsant, Antifungal, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Depressant, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Sedative, Tonic. Internal Uses: Anxiety, Asthma, Bedwetting, Bronchitis, Cramps, Depression, Dysmenorrhea, Facial Neuralgia, Gout, Insomnia, Neuralgia, Pain, Rheumatism, Urinary Inability, Urinary Infections Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture It is a skeletal and muscle relaxant, as well as a central nervous system depressant. Kava is fat soluble, so when preparing as a tea or when cooking, add coconut milk to make it easier to assimilate. Taking Kava Kava before bed can help induce pleasant sleep and vivid dreams. It slows heart rate and respiration. Topical Uses: Toothache, Wounds Topical Applications: Compress or poultice can be applied to painful wounds as an antiseptic and aid to healing. Mouthwash for gum and tooth pain. Contraindications: Excess use can disturb vision, dilate pupils, and affect walking and driving. Using Kava may temporarily cause one's tongue, mouth and other body parts to feel somewhat numb and rubbery. Using large doses for extended periods can be cumulative in the liver, lead to apathy, anorexia and cause bloodshot eyes. Continual chewing can cause yellowing of the teeth and harm tooth enamel. Avoid during pregnancy. Magikal uses: Conjuring, releasing stress, opening oneself to Higher messages LAVENDER : Lavendula angustifolia Parts Used: Flowers, Leaves. Properties: Analgesic, Antibiotic, Antidepressant, Antifungal, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Aromatic, Carminative, Cholagogue, Digestive Tonic, Diuretic, Nervine, Rubefacient, Sedative, Stimulant, Stomach Tonic, Tonic. Internal Uses: Asthma, Colic, Cough, Depression, Exhaustion, Fainting, Flatulence, Headache, Insomnia, Nausea, Nervousness, Pain, Stress, Sunburn, Vertigo, Vomiting Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, cooking herb Lavender is one of the strongest anti-bacterial and anti-virals there is. No medicine cabinet or apothecary garden is complete without it! Lavender is a good nervine relaxant and stress reliever. Topical Uses: Acne, Burns, Cellulite, Cold Sores, Eczema, Edema, Fatigue, Halitosis, Headache, Infection, Insect Bites, Insect Repellent, Insect Stings, Irritability, Joint Pain, Lice, Muscle Soreness, Rheumatism, Scabies, Scars, Snakebites, Toothache, Yeast Infection Topical Applications: Use as a mouthwash for bad breath, foot bath for fatigue, and douche for yeast infections. Essential oil is used for toothaches, cold sores, acne and sore joints. It can be rubbed on the temples to alleviate a headache. Undiluted, it is an excellent remedy to apply to burns to promote healing, prevent infection and lessen scarring. Essential oil or fresh plant can be rubbed on the body as a bug repellent. It can prevent not only mosquito bites, but also lice and scabies infestation. Essential oil can be used topically on venomous bites such as bee stings, mosquitos, black widow and brown recluse spiders, wasps and snakes. Place a drop of Lavender essential oil on the edge of the mattress of a teething baby to calm him/her down. Soaps, sachets and bath herbs can be used for cranky children or even for adults who have had a bad day. Use Lavender as a rinse for fragrant hair, and use it in massage oil for sore muscles, edema, rheumatism and cellulite. Use as a salve for eczema. Often used as perfume. Culinary uses: Lavender is added in small amounts to stews and soups in French cooking. An ingredient in Herbes de Provence. Add small amounts in salads, fruit dishes and breads. One can make Lavender sorbet and Lavender shortbread. Also, use in vinegars, jams and candies. Magikal uses: honoring Ancestor�s, releasing spiritual baggage, renewal of goals, restoring happiness and balance |
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