Beans
phaseolus vulgaris

Remedy For Kidney and bladder stones, Urinary tract infections.
Homeopathic practitioners recommend this herb
for diabetes and heart conditions.

In folk medicine, it is used to increase
urine flow and relieve diabetes.

What It Is;
Why It Works
The Bean plant grows 1 to 2 feet high and when in bloom
boasts white, pink, and lilac flowers.

Only the crushed pods are used for medicinal purposes.
They have a mild diuretic action,
helping to flush excess water from the system.

The plant is believed to have originated in India,
but now grows worldwide.
Probably because of the pods' resemblance
to the male reproductive organ,
Beans were worshipped in ancient Egypt, and it was
verboten to eat them.

Today, Jewish High Priests
cannot eat Beans on the Day of Atonement.

In Italy, they are distributed
to poor people on the anniversary of a death.

Special Cautions
Large quantities of raw pods or beans can cause
severe digestive distress.
However, customary dosages of tea made from the pods
produce no side effects.

How to Prepare
To make a tea,
pour boiling water over 2.5 grams
(About 11/2 teaspoonfuls) of crushed pods,
steep for 10 to 15 minutes, and strain.

Typical Dosage
Usual daily dosage is 5 to 15 grams
(about 3 to 10 teaspoonfuls).
Strengths of commercial preparations may vary.
Follow the manufacturer's labeling whenever available.

Overdosage
A massive overdose of raw beans
can cause vomiting, diarrhea and stomach pain.