There are some herbs that I would not be without in my dispensary. Most of these tend to be relatively well known native British plants, but the medicinal flora of other parts of the world are also represented amongst my 'indespensibles'. Gotu Kola (Centella asiatica or Hydocotle asiatica) is one of these. I have actually seen this little and unassuming plant (picture by courtesy of Forrest and Kim Starr) in one of the glass houses at Kew Gardens, growing on the side of one of the large lily ponds in one of the glasshouses. There it was at my feet - I would never have known if I had not looked down and seen it there - it goes to show that sometimes it is the quiet things that have a greater impact - things do not have to be big and showy to be effective in the world of herbs No relation to the stimulating Kola nut (Cola nitida). As its Latin name suggests this small perennial plant is native to many parts of Asia, but also to South Africa and the South Pacific and has been used in the medicinal traditions of these regions for centuries. It is a herb I use mainly for skin problems as an always reliable all round skin supporter. It has a well earned reputation for being healing and anti-inflammatory. Consequently it is a herb that can be used to assist with a range of skin conditions including acne, urticaria (nettle rash), dermatitis, ulcers, scleroderma and psoriasis. This is not the least of it, especially where the skin is concerned, as it is an adaptogenic herb and nerve tonic which makes it particularly useful for those skin conditions (and there are many) that seem to be intimately connected with stressed and nervous states. It is also a good vulnerary herb (wound healer) as it promotes the rebuilding of damaged skin, so is good to use topically for wounds and some burns and I have known of it being used to help with some slow to heal sores. In Ayurvedic medicine, its actions as a tonic for the nervous system are greatly prized and it is used as a herb to rejuvenate and strengthen the nerves and brain cells, helping reduce anxiety (it is a sedative), improve intelligence and memory, and retard senility. It may also be useful to help with fatigue, so could be used in some herbal formulations for fibromyalgia and other related conditions. This maybe because it has a repuation for supporting the adrenal glands, which are often supported in a herbal medicine if there has been a history of stress and fatigue It may also be helpful for varicose veins and where there is ulceration and varicose eczema. Some small studies have indicated that it may improve venous insufficiency in the lower limbs, by improving vascular tone, reducing swelling and supporting micro-circulation. Some cases of phlebitis might also benefit from Gotu Kola. All in all, it an herb with a multiple of different uses within herbal medicines for a wide number of conditions, I would not be without it! This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Don't take too much of anything for too long and discontinue immediately if you have any ill effects. . Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. References Kuhn M, Winston D. Herbal Therapy and Supplements: A Scientific and Traditional Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 2001 University of Maryland http://www.umm.edu/altmed/articles/gotu-kola-000253.htm Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine |
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There are lots of herbs that can help manage menopausal symptoms and used appropriately these can be quite effective. However, right from start-off, we need to say that, as is the case with using all herbs, you have to find the right one(s) for you and at the right dose. There is no 'one size fits all' herbal cure-all. Also there may be contra-indications that need observing, so do take care. If you are interested in using herbs to help with your menopausal symptoms, this does not mean that self-medication shouldn't be attempted and won't be successful. However, you need to appreciate that treatment sometimes has to be more accurately tailored to suit the individual. As a rule of thumb, if your symptoms are relatively mild, you might find something off the shelf of your health food shop, but the more complicated and severe your presentation, the more likely it is that you will need more expert advice from your herbalist who will be able to formulate a more specific remedy for your symptom profile. That visiting a herbalist for menopausal symptom management can be helpful was shown by a small study published in 2007. This demonstrated that treatment by qualified herbal practitioners reduced troublesome menopausal symptoms across a wide range of presentations (1). This piece of research is available freely on line. Check it out, if you are interested - the reference is at the end of this blog. There are of course some very helpful general pieces of advice for assisting you through the menopause – eat healthily - being the first and foremost. Obvious, I know, but oft ignored. Your diet should include a wide variety of vegetables and fruit preferably of different colours, to give you a wide range of active constituents such as antioxidants, flavanoids etc. (Take care with too much fruit, however, as this can bump up your sugar levels). Include small amounts of high quality protein including oily fish in your diet and avoid processed foods, refined sugars and carbohydrates . You have heard it all before. A healthy diet is not rocket science, it just takes some (easily obtainable) knowledge, common sense, will-power and a determination to change. It might be hard to achieve in practice, but believe me if you manage to do it, you will never regret it! In the long term, a good diet has immeasurable health benefits, and is something well worth establishing now to help with those health problems that may assail you later in life. This becomes more important post-menopause as apart from the other effects of aging, your hormones during your fertile years provide a bulwark against health problems like heart disease and some inflammatory conditions. As our hormone levels decline we can become more susceptible to these. Never underestimate the power of food as medicine. As for foods more specific for the menopause, the abundance of easily found dietary advice needs no rehearsal here. For example, include lots of nuts, seeds, legumes, foods rich in fibre, lignans and phyto-oestrogens in your daily diet. This can really help with managing your symptoms, by balancing your hormones. You might try 'menopause cake' (there are quite a few recipes on the internet). This is a good tasty way of incorporating a lot of these foods into your daily regime – it can be literally - a piece of cake. Limit your alcohol intake. You need to be especially kind to your liver at this time in your life, as it can help you balance those fluctuating hormone levels. I think I can safely say that when faced with patients with severe hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms, most herbalists will include a 'liver' herb in their prescriptions – I favour dandelion root (Taraxacum officinale) a great herb for supporting the liver in its vital work. Schizandra (Schizandra chinensis) is a more exotic alternative, but also an excellent liver herb as well as a nerve tonic, so two hits in one herb. If stress makes you reach for the wine, why not try herbs instead? Skullcap (Scutellaria lateriflora) and Siberian gingseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) for example, although there are many including Passionflower, Valerian and St John's Wort. Skullcap is a good general nerve tonic and mild sedative that can help with anxiety, irritability and some insomnia. Siberian ginseng is a great adaptogen – a herb that helps the body adapt to stress, I find this has particular affinity for women, but there are other adaptogenic herbs – Schizandra, for example that you might try. Remember, it is often true that if you control your stress levels then other symptoms, such as hot flushes might well diminish as these are often exacerbated by emotional upset. As stress can affect the adrenal glands and the adrenals help with hormonal balance (all things are interdependent) we often find that they also need a helping hand during the menopause Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) can be used here - it also has phyto-oestrogenic effects, so provides a hormone balancing action. However, this is one that needs professional advice, for example it is contra-indicated if you have high blood pressure and has to be used carefully, especially long term. Aside from herbs for general support, there is a huge variety of herbs that have hormone-like effects hat can be used to manage hot flushes, vaginal dryness, low libido and that emotional roller-coaster that accompanies what we should never forget is actually a very natural change of life. Amongst the well known ones are Black cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa) - often very helpful for hot flushes and other symptoms, especially when associated with stress and emotional factors. You will need to be careful with dosage with this herb and it may be contra-indicated for some, so definitely take advice before using it. Garden sage (Salvia officinalis) is not only good for stuffing your turkey, but can also help with hot sweats too. It can be very effective as a simple tea of 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage leaves infused in a cup of boiling water and taken three times daily Sage may also be combined with other herbs such as alfalfa (Medicago sativa) if endogenous oestrogen levels are low, as part of a more wide-acting preparation. Moreover, Sage is said to enhance the memory and concentration is also a good tonic for the nervous system, so might help with that occasional menopausal 'woolly headedness'. Due to its thujone content it is not recommended at high doses or over a long period of time. It does have some important contra-indications that will affect a few people, so check it out to see that it is right for you. Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) is a pretty native wayside flower and ishigh in phyto-oestrogens, which mean that it is often included in menopause preparations to help the body adjust more gradually to declining levels of oestrogens .Also, if you have skin problems, such as acne or acne roseaea that are associated with your menopause, then this might be a good choice as its blood cleansing properties can help with these conditions as well. Marigold (Calendula officinale) also contains some phyto-ostrogens and may help with vaginal dryness, both topically used in a herbal pessary and/or taken as tincture or tea. It is also a great herb for skin problems and poor digestion. Chaste berry or Vitex (Vitex agnus castus) is a good all round hormonal balancer that can work very well for some people. It does need a little bit of skill in its use and I often prescribe it on its own in drop doses. Peri-menopausally it can be used to regulate menstrual cycles and I sometimes use it to help with very heavy periods that can sometimes accompany this phase of life. It is contra-indicated with other hormonal preparations such as the pill and HRT and one I think best left to the professional herbalist. A herb I have recently used more frequently with patients is the Ayurvedic herb Shatavari (Asparagus racemosus). I have found this helpful for dealing with many menopausal symptoms, where hormonal balancing is needed and it can be useful for hot flushing and night sweats. This has the reputation of being able to help with low libido, where there is a hormonal cause, although bear in mind that this can be a very complex area for women as so many factors can influence this very important aspect of our lives. that is sometimes sadly overlooked or dismissed as being an effect of age. If enjoyment of your sex life is , but it may be worth a try as its ayurvedic name attests to its reputation as it means 'she of a thousand husbands We cannot stop the menopause, but we should focus on making it as healthy and as undisruptive to our normal lives as possible, diet is a factor, as are life-style changes like reducing stress and taking more exercise and herbs, used expertly and wisely may certainly help to assuage some of the less pleasant side-effects of this special time of a women's life. References Green, J. et al. (2007) Treatment of menopausal symptoms by qualified herbal practitioners: a prospective randomised controlled trial. Family Practice 24(5) pp.468-74. This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. October is nearly over but if you look hard, there are still a few elderberries glistening blackly at us from the hedgerows. Although it is perhaps a bit late, if you are quick there is still time to pick this natural medicinal bounty to help combat the coughs, colds and 'flu that will surely assail us all in the winter months to come.
The elder tree (Sambucus nigra) is an ancient medicinal plant, its ubiquity in our hedgerows perhaps belying its great value. Surrounded by much folklore and legend (like so many other efficacious plants) it is said to be inhabited by a jealous spirit called the 'Elder Mother'. So make sure, if you take any part of the tree, to thank the Elder Mother for her benefaction. The flowers and fruits of the Elder are both mainstays of the Medical Herbalist's dispensary and are good native remedies for upper respiratory tract conditions of all sorts. However, the riches of the elder tree can be also be used successfully as home remedies for those winter snuffles. The frothy and headily fragrant flowers (including the all important pollen) which are such a feature of our early summer hedgerows, when dried and taken as tea, are anti-catarrhal, easing swelling in the mucous membranes - a miserable feature of colds, hay-fever and sinusitis. It is well worth gathering yourself a batch of flower heads when they appear next spring – dry them carefully in order to preserve the all important pollen, as this is thought to contribute to their overall efficacy. As with many traditional cold remedies (Yarrow is another) elderflowers will promote sweating and urination. This helps the body to eliminate the toxins produced by the cold virus. This is a much older method of dealing with colds and infections and contrasts sharply with the modern approach of taking medication to dry up cold symptoms, although even I have to admit that this is sometimes necessary to allow the continuation to some extent, of normal life, but I am not sure it is always the healthiest thing to do in terms of helping your body's natural response to a cold. The theory behind this approach, is that the body, as part of its immune response, is eliminating the products of infection through the mucous membranes – hence our snotty noses. Increasing sweating and urination assists this eliminative process and so can hasten the end of the cold. Drinking lots of water when you have a cold will also help to flush the body, although you might find your symptoms will worsen in the short term, but they will improve more quickly afterwards if you can keep this up. Resting is also very helpful, it really is what your body wants to do – it is trying to fight off an infection after all and we should give it all the help we can. We all try to carry on regardless through colds and I am not sure this is always the best policy, although again the dictates of modern life often demand this. I studied herbal medicine with a lady whose demeanor was formidable (but who actually was very kindly) and who had been a director of a rather famous firm (I shan't say which, but you would have heard of them). She would send staff home who came to work with a cold and telling them to take bed rest, drink herbal teas, take tissue salts and not come back for two days. Her view was that they would be more use in the workplace if they were given the opportunity to rest and take measures to get well in the short term, rather than coming in snuffly, under par and infectious for days on end. I always thought that this was rather enlightened approach and one which I felt should be more widely adopted. However, I digress – what more of the wonders of the elder tree? Those ripe berries we started with (don't use the green ones) aren't only used to make the intoxicating wine that often used to sit in sideboard cupboards to be offered as a 'medicinal' tipple to great aunts and visiting clergy. Elderberries have always been laid down in the Autumn to be used in the winter – as a syrup they are a great soother for fractious coughs. They are also full of marvelous antioxidants and vitamins, so can help you keep infections at bay, if you feel a cold coming on. However the elderberry has only just recently revealed one of its other secrets to modern science, (through which there is more and more confirmation of traditional medicinal plant uses). It has been found that elderberries contain a substance called sambucol. Most excitingly, this is thought to be potentially more effective against a wider spectrum of 'flu viruses than the pharmaceutical drug Tamiflu and moreover, produces fewer side effects (1). A truly wonderful discovery, as not many plants are thought to be effective against viruses and not much, plants or otherwise is effective against 'flu (other than vaccination). To preserve this medicinal treasure, why not make elderberry syrup (there are lots of recipes on line and one on my blog at www.naturesbestmedicine.info). Or try and make an alcoholic tincture using vodka – again look on line for the method. A teaspoon of either can be added to hot water to drink when a cold or 'flu threatens. The season to pick elderflowers has passed, but you might not be too late for the berries if you are quick. However there are some commercially made elderberry preparations around – your health food shop should be able to help you. But - if you are wanting to make your own, get down to the hedgerows - begin by asking the permission of the 'Elder Mother' and pick yourself an elderberry 'flu remedy! This information is only meant for educational purposes and not for self-treatment – always check before using herbs for interactions with orthodox drugs, cotra-indications if you have existing medical conditions or if you are pregnant or lactating. Always make sure that you pick the right plant, from an uncontminated source Catherine Schofield BSc BA MSc MNIMH (Member of the National Institute of Medical Herbalists) Consulting Medical Herbalist main web site www.naturesbestmedicine.info email [email protected] Tel: 07947128709 (1) Adele Nozedar (2012) The hedgerow handbook: Recipes, Remedies and Rituals. With many patients I see, there is often an anxiety or stress element underlying their symptom picture, this can present either as anxiety itself, or as an complication to other problems, such as chronic fatigue states, skin conditions, digestive upsets and cardiovascular issues . When this is the case herbalists can turn to a specific group of herbs to help.
These herbs are often referred to collectively as nervines and will be included in as part of a wider prescription to provide gentle support for the nervous system. These herbs work in a variety of ways and unlike many orthodox pharmaceutical drugs, the herbal approach to anxiety conditions works towards restoring the nervous system to a healthier state, rather than just managing the symptoms of anxiety, although they can help quite effectively with this too. Within the overall group of nervines there are herbs which will act to relax the patient, to help with sleep, to stimulate nervous system and to assist with the effects of nervous exhaustion, tension and shock. Perhaps more specifically to herbal medicine, there are also those medicinal herbs which act as tonics for the nervous system and these are used when there has been a prolonged period of stress and strain. These are sometimes referred to as nervous trophorestoratives - a trophorestorative being a remedy that restores and re-balances an organ or system Herbal nerve tonics Tonics are not something we hear much of in modern medicine, although they were used by GPs up until quite recently. The idea of a tonic is that it is invigorating and strengthening, something to help rebuild health. Something that perhaps we all could benefit from when difficult times have taken their toll of our physical and mental health. This category of herbs includes the humble oat (Avena sativa). Yep! the one that you eat as porridge. Oats being a cereal are very nutritive (careful though if you are gluten intolerant - although it contains less gluten than wheat) and contain high levels of iron, zinc and manganese in comparison to other cereals. It has also more recenlty gained a reputation for lowering cholesterol. Useful for anxiety and depression Both the grain and the oat straw are used medicinally and herbally they are considered a thymoleptic - a herb that can help with depression and they are used for a wide range of indications where this action is needed. This ranges from anxiety and depressive problems in cases where there is nervous weakness and in debility following illness, so good used as an adjunctive medicine in some cases of post viral fatigue, fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue and post-shingles when gentle nerve support often benefits. Gentle enough to be used where there is hyperactivity in children, oats can also help with restless sleep. It is indicated herbally in Parkinson's or other diseases where there is nerve degeneration, although clearly this is not the whole picture and it would only be used as a support to other treatment. Help for addiction It also has a reputation for helping with addiction, both with alcoholism and helping to stop smoking (it's levels of zinc can help to replenish this mineral which is lost with smoking). There is also a tradition that oats can help with dealing with benzodiazepine and valium dependency One of Nature's aphrodisiacs, useful for low libido..? One of the less exotic aphrodisiacs of nature, the phrase 'sowing your wild oats' does indeed refer to its purported power in enhancing libido and sexual performance for both sexes. It is likely that this reputation rests on its zinc content (a mineral particularly linked to male fertility and general health of the masculine reproductive system - including prostate health) and on its effect on the nervous system - a well functioning nervous system having a positive effect on our love lives both for emotional and for obvious functional reasons (some of which are irrevocably intertwined). I hope you will now look with more respect at your porridge....! This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. Catherine Schofield Bsc MNIMH Medical Herbalist, Stockport, Cheshire For those of you who cook, you will know that cinnamon (Cinnamonum verum) is a fantastic addition to food which adds a distinctive and delicious aromatic flavour to recipes both sweet and savoury. Coming from the inner bark of the stem of the cinnamon tree, cinnamon comes in either quills or powder. But it is not just useful for flavouring food, it is also valued as a medicinal plant in many systems of herbal medicine. At its simplest level it can figure as an addition to some herbal remedies to make them taste better (no bad thing, as some herbs can be hard to take) but it does have some marked medicinal benefits in its own right. I have used it for a number of patients with various conditions, and although it is not a first line remedy, it is a useful adjunct when used with other herbs. The alcoholic tincture is a beautiful deep colour and has a rich concentrated spiciness when the bottle is opened, which makes it a joy to use. Given that we are now in the season for head colds, most easily,it can be used as a home remedy as a flavourful addition to other herbs that are used as teas to help ease those snuffles and sneezes (see my previous blog) and it is a very useful addition indeed, as it is warming, anti-microbial (anti-viral as well as anti-bacterial) and mildly analgesic - use 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of the powdered spice in each cup of boiling water. Cinnamon oil can also be used as a steam inhalant added and in topical applications for chest rubs where there is a chesty cough (5 drops in 2 teaspoons of almond or olive oil). Think how marvellously you will smell of cinnamon afterwards...! As with many culinary spices it is its volatile oils, which are the chemicals that give it its exotic aroma and flavour, that are particularly helpful for the digestion, especially when added to rich foods. Moreover, it is thought that can make up for a deficiency in stomach acid - essential for the proper functioning of the gastric enzymes of the stomach to start the digestion of the protein in your food.This may be especially helpful for people whose stomach acid is low - commonplace in people over fifty and where digestion is generally poor resulting in flatulence and colic. It may also help to stimulate appetite when you are feeling low and off your food and quell feelings of nausea. It anti-microbial properties play their part in protecting us from bacteria in food, such as E. coli and it it thought that it may inhibit the ulcer-forming bacteria H. pylori in association with other herbs, but this is not one for a home remedy as you need to use this cautiously if you suffer from gastric reflux. As a herbalist, I find it particularly helpful in patients where insulin resistance may be a problem the most effective form of cinnamon in these circumstances, however, is Chinese cinnamon Cinnamonum cassia rather than the more common 'culinary' cinnamon Cinnamonum verum. It might also help where there is type 2 diabetes to moderately lower elevated levels of blood sugar as it is thought to increase the utilisation of your own insulin. Also usefully for those with type 2 diabetes, it may also have a role in helping with high cholesterol levels. Again it is not recommended that it is used in this way as a home remedy, especially if you are taking anti-diabetic drugs - this is one use of cinnamon that is best left to your medical herbalist or other health professional. Caution with cinnamon if you are pregnant. This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. Sources: Bartram, T. (1995) Encyclopedia of herbal medicine, Grace publishers Kuhn, M. and Winston, D. (2008) Herbal therapy and supplements: a scientific and technical approach, Lippincot. Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH, Medical Herbalist, Stockport, Cheshire. The herbaceous borders are at the height now in the late summer/ early autumn. Who would know that amongst these showy ornamentals there are plants that have medicinal qualities. The stately mullein or verbascum (Verbascum thapsus) is one such plant to have hidden talents. A member of the same family as the foxglove (the Scrophulariaceae, for those who are interested) the verbascum has a towering flowerspike comprising many small five-petaled flowers. These are usually yellow, but there are some forms that are orange. Outside of our gardens it can also be found as a wild plant throughout Britain thriving on sunny banks and growing in chalky and sandy soils. A biennial, it forms a rosette of down covered leaves from which, in its second year of growth, a flowering stalk emerges which can grow up to 2m. Its yellow spikes and grey leaves are eye-catching and slightly exotic looking and when seen growing wild, it gives the landscape a faintly Mediterranean aspect. History and usage According to the herbalist Julian Barker, it is one of the oldest plants we have for soothing troublesome and painful coughs and respiratory tract infections. Indeed its pedigree reaches far back in time. The ancient Greek botanist, physician and pharmacologist, Dioscorides prescribed its roots for pulmonary complaints and the Roman writer Pliny advised using the leaves for bronchial complaints in both humans and horses. Another renowned herbalist of antiquity, St Hildegard of Bingen considered the flowers to be useful for hoarseness Containing volatile oils, resins and mucilage it is expectorant and anti-catarrhal and so can help to remove and minimise phlegm. It is also astringent and soothing making it very healing to the inflammed and irritated tissues that accompany respiratory tract infections. The seeds are slightly sedative and narcotic (fishermen have been known to use them by putting them in the water to drug fish so that they can catch them more easily). Medicinally, the seeds can be blended with the leaves or flowers and applied externally as a hot compress to painful joints and to soothe chilblains and haemorrhoids. Additionally the leaf has been used as a drawing remedy for splinter and the infused oil has been used topically for earache for many years (although great care has to be exercised before putting anything into your ears in case of damaged ear drums - definitely check with your health professional first). Mullein oil may also help when used topically with chilblains and haemorrhoids. Although it is an ancient remedy it is still quite commonly used by medical herbalists, especially for any condition where there is inflammation or even bleeding in the lungs or lower respiratory tract and is sometimes used to help with the symptoms of asthma (usually in a mixture with other pectoral herbs). It also may be used where there is where there is bleeding in the bowel- again its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties come into play. A flowery cough remedy The French writer on herbs Jean Palaiseul recommends an infusion of the dried flowers using 3g of flowers to 100 ml of boiling water taken up to three times a day (Pick the flowers in dry weather as soon as they open and dry in the shade to prevent them from turning brown) can be used for dry coughs and bronchitis. This mixture has a pleasant sweet taste as the flower petals contain as much as 10% glucose, it promotes expectoration is soothing, sedative and sudorific (i.e. causing sweating - helpful when fighting infections such as colds). Do observe the safety warning below, however. Safety The seeds, leaves and flowers are all used medicinally, but care must be taken to properly filter any preparation through a very fine cloth or absorbent cotton wool any remedies made for internal (or indeed external) use as the minute hairs on the leaves and flowers are very irritant. Folklore and magical uses Known as the 'hedge taper' it was used as a tinder plant, as the down on the leaves when quite dry can be used to help to kindle a fire. Apparently this material was also used in lamp wicks before cotton was available, although there may be confusion with the fact that the Romans purportedly dipped the leaves and flowers into wax making use of the resins present in the plant to make wicks and tapers. As to its magical qualities (so many medicinal plants are unsurprisingly, associated with magic and folklore) it is thought by many cultures to protect against evil spirits - mentioned in Homer, it is said that Ulyssess used this plant to protect him from the wiles of the enchantress Circe. It is also said to guard against evil spirits, in India it is hung over doors and windows and carried in sachets to banish demons and negativity and a small bag of it under your pillow will banish nightmares. It is also said that using the mullein as a taper was a method of illumination favoured by witches and magicians to light their spell-casting.....one of its common names is Hag's tapers - so who knows? Sources Barker, J. (2001), The medicinal flora of Britain and Northwestern Europe. Kent, Winter Press Cunningham, S. (2002) Cunningham's encyclopedia of magical herbs, Llewellyn publications Mrs Grieve (1931) A Modern Herbal (available on line at www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/mgmh.htm). Palaiseul, J. (1977) The green guide to health from plants, Book club associates This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Take care when using wild plants or herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable and uncontaminated source. Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine On Saturday and on behalf of the 'Friends of Chadkirk' I gave a talk and a guided walk around the walled kitchen/herb garden that still remains there entitled 'Herbs and Healing in a Monastery Garden'. Thirteen people attended and I certainly enjoyed myself as the sun shone and we were able to walk around talk about and enjoy the plants in this lovingly restored garden that is attached to Chadkirk Chapel in Romiley, Stockport.
To fit in with the theme and the history of the Chapel (not a monastic community strictly speaking, but certainly an ancient ecclesiastical site) I gave a brief history of herbal medicine in Britain with an emphasis on the monastic communities who were very skilled hospitalers and practitioners of the herbal arts. We started our talk in the Chapel, but as the weather was good, we then went as a group to look at individual flowers and plants in the herb garden. Here we explored the history of their usage and talked about some of the interesting folklore that often attaches itself to medicinal plants, finally coming up to date to discuss their use in modern herbal medicine. People chipped in with their own experiences of using herbs for both medicinal and culinary purposes, which was very interesting for me. The event was organised by 'The Friends of Chadkirk' a group of volunteers who have done some amazing work at this beautiful spot in concert with Stockport Borough Council Heritage and Parks and Gardens Departments. All proceeds from my talk went to a fund being set up to buy a new stained glass window for the chapel and I shall feel quite proud that, when it is installed, I can perhaps say that I contributed to a tiny pane of it. Just for info, this tiny ancient Chapel, which served the small community of Chadkirk as a place of worship for many centuries, is tucked away amidst fields of wildflowers, not far from the river Goyt. Although only a small place it is certainly well worth a visit, if only to listen to the birds, admire the flowers and imbibe the peace (also you can imbibe a cup of tea or coffee at the Chapel on weekend afternoons). The garden (and Chapel) is a testament to the hard work of both volunteers and the group professional who work for Stockport Borough Council, who all love the place - and my word - does it show! Pleasant shortish and non demanding circular walks have been laid out around the area and Stockport Council have just built and opened a new bridge across the river that gives access to a whole range of other footpaths going to Marple and beyond. Really smashing, if you are looking for an oasis of green tranquility in the midst of the buy town! If you want to know more about my talk or about Chadkirk itself, volunteering at the Chapel and some of the events held there, there is an excellent blog and website at www.friendsofchadkirk.wordpress.com. For someone who likes food as much as I do the discovery that the truly delicious bilberry (Vaccinium myrtilis) also has medicinal qualities is something to celebrate. My earliest memories of bilberries are as a child are of eating them with ice cream and watching the darkly purple syrup swirl and fleck the vanilla ice cream to form a beyond beautiful pudding, whose luscious flavour matched its looks. This particular shade still lives with me and I can see it in the purple pink of some weather-heavy clouds. I still refer to this (much to my partner's bewilderment) as a bilberry sky - he is from the South of England and is unfamiliar with the bilberry, only knowing the more commercial, bigger and non-native (and I think less marvellously tasting) North American blueberry, so the allusion is somewhat lost on him. Bilberry pie is also a dessert worth pursuing, although if you are picking your own, you may need to set aside many hours to gather enough of the rather small fruit, which nestle beneath the leaves of this small tough shrub, to fill a pastry case. Persevere! Liberally sprinkle the bilberries with sugar the result is a king amongst pies. When I began to study herbal medicine, I was surprised to find bilberry tincture on the dispensary shelves, a surreptitious sip of the tincture confirmed that the taste still lived on in its medicinal form - a delicious taste is not something herbal medicines are famous for - the opposite is the case, so this one makes a change. Often used in herbal medicines to support the circulatory system, for example those aimed at helping with high blood pressure - it can decrease the stickiness of blood. It is also protective to walls of the blood vessels themselves, so can be used for varicose veins (it can decrease vascular permeability) and may benefit haemorrhoids. Another use is to help strengthen the delicate blood vessels of elderly people, which often rupture on the slightest knock. The beautiful colour of the berries comes from chemicals called anthrocyanosides, and like all purple-black fruit they are rich in anti-oxidants. Bilberries have been shown to have some liver protective action and are thought to enhance cognition and memory. It is a good urinary anti-septic and may be used for kidney stones. It can quell diarrhea and is useful for any conditions where there is inflammation of the gastro-intestinal tract. Again in common with other darkly coloured fruits, its constituents are thought to slow macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy. Like carrots, the bilberry is thought to help night vision and there was a rumour that British pilots in WWII ate bilberry jam to help them fly at night, although this may have been a propaganda story to obscure the truth about radar from the enemy. Bilberries will soon be coming into ripeness, go out on a walk and try to find some, if not for their medicinal virtues, then for the simply unique flavour that this little berry packs - a truly fine thing to come from the north country! This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Don't take too much of anything for too long and discontinue immediately if you have any ill effects. Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. References Kuhn M, Winston D. Herbal Therapy and Supplements: A Scientific and Traditional Approach. Philadelphia, Pa: Lippincott; 2001 Catherine Schofield BSc MNIMH Herbalist Cheshire Herbs and Herbal Medicine If you live in the Stockport/Marple area and are interested in finding out a bit more about how herbal medicine might be able to help you, I am doing free mini consultations (about 15 minutes) at Marple Health Shop on Wednesday 1st August from 14.00 - 17.00
If you are interested in coming along, you will need to let me know, so that I can reserve a slot, so telephone me on 07947 128 709. There is absolutely no obligation and I am happy to try and will help with off the shelf remedies, if that is appropriate. I look forward to meeting you. Variegated thyme There are a number of herbs that are thought to be able to help combat the H. pylori (Helicobacter pylorii) bacterium or its effects, which is responsible for causing peptic or gastric ulcers. Amongst these are Echinacea spp. (probably more widely known as an over the counter herbal remedy for use against the common cold and other infections), liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and turmeric (Curcuma longa). All these herbs have anti-mircrobial and/or anti-inflammatory properties, however it is unlikely that medical herbalists would use any of these herbs on their own to help with peptic ulceration. They will often be combined with others as part of a prescription designed to assist with more generalised healing and protection of the stomach lining. For instance, herbs which have a demulcent (anti-irritant) action, that is herbs with a high percentage of soothing mucilage, such as marshmallow root (Althea officinalis) or slippery elm (Ulmus fulva) might also be prescribed. Marigold (Calendula offinicalis) or comfrey leaf (Symphytum officinale) could also be used for, amongst a wide range of other actions, their ability to actively help heal the lining of the gut, as both are good vulnerary herbs. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is such a useful herb for so many conditions and peptic ulceration is no exception. Its addition to a herbal mix for peptic ulcers takes advantage of its anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer actions. It is also great for stomach problems where there is a nervous connection, as it is a mild sedative (so often I find in practice that nervous problems are intimately linked to gastric upset), it is also healing and spasmolytic. This information is meant for educational purposes only and not intended as a guide to self-treatment. You should always seek professional advice. Remember that herbs can interact with other drugs and may be contra-indicated if you have certain medical conditions, are pregnant or lactating. Don't take too much of anything for too long and discontinue immediately if you have any ill effects. Take care when using wild plants or any herbs, that you have the correct species from a reliable source. |
Cate SchofieldBSc (Hons) BA(Hons) MSc MNIMH
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