Frog Fruit

 

     Growing up as a tomboy in Florida, I often played outside. I was always in trees, playing in the dirt, or even making flower chains with our native wildflowers. One of the flowers I used for these chains was Frog Fruit or Phyla nodiflora.

     Frog Fruit is a creeping herb often used as a ground cover. It’s stems extend from 15 to 30 centimeters and it tends to root at the nodes. The leaves are numerous, nearly without stalks, obovate, 1 to 2.5 centimeters long, with a blunt or rounded tip, with sharply toothed margins on the upper half, and a wedge-shaped base. The flowers are very small, pink or white, crowded in ovoid or cylindric spikes, 1 to 2.5 centimeters long, and about 6 millimeters in diameter. The corolla consists of a slender and cylindric tube, about 3 millimeters long, with a limb that is 2.5 millimeters wide, opening at the apex as it lengthens. Spikes appear at the ends of stalks, growing singly from the axils of the leaves. 

     We have four species here in Florida. Phyla stoechadifolia is a small, woody shrub that grows up to 2 feet tall. P. lanceolata is fairly rare and only found in a few counties (Calhoun, Escambia, Gadsden, Jackson, and Liberty), all of which are in North Florida. It also only really blooms during Spring and early Summer. P. fruticosa is even rarer and has only been found in a single county in Florida, Miami-Dade. The most commonly found species in Florida is Phyla nodiflora. This plant used to be in the Lippia genus, so you will occasionally find information about Lippia nodiflora, just know that it’s the same plant. The Phyla genus is found within the Verbenaceae or Verbena family, which is in the Lamiales order. The same order where the Lamiaceae or Mint family is found. So these herbs are cousins to mint, lavender, and all the Lamiaceae family herbs.

     Frog Fruit is an important plant for a number of reasons, not the least of which is the fact that it is an important larval host for a number of our native pollinators. The most common butterflies that depend on Frog Fruit are the Phaon Crescent (Phyciodes phaon), White Peacock (Anartia jatrophae), Barred Sulphur (Eurema daira), and Common Buckeye (Junonia coenia). It’s also an important food source for an even larger number of native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators here in Florida. 

     If you follow me on social media, you might know that I recently shot a video all about this little flower. Check it out here.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Frog Fruit, Turkey Tangle Fogfruit, Match Head, Match Flower, Creeping Lip, Purple Lippa, Sawtooth Frogfruit, Turkey Tangle, Cape Weed

Scientific Name- Phyla fruticosa, P. lanceolata, P. nodiflora, and P. stoechadifolia. 

Edibility- The leaves are often used as a tea substitute, though it does have a “grassy” taste. The leaves are edible cooked. It’s often recommended to boil them.

Summary of Actions- Alexeteric, Analgesic, Anodyne, Anthelmintic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Anti-inflammatory, Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Antipyretic, Antiseptic, Antitumor, Antitussive, Anti-urolithiatic, Aphrodisiac, Astringent, Carminative, Demulcent, Deobstruent, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Febrifuge, Nociceptive, Parasiticide, Refrigerant, Spasmolytic

Parts Used- The whole plant is used.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Guo Jiang Teng, this herb Clears Wind-Heat. Helping to treat a variety of blood diseases, fevers, malaria, vertigo, fainting, and thirst. It is also used for diarrhea, dysentery, gonorrhea, boils, abscesses, herpes, and burning sensations during urination.

Ayurveda- Known as Jalpapli, an infusion of this herb is given to women after childbirth to help stimulate healing. It also Clears Heat and Resists Poison. It’s often used in similar ways to it’s used in TCM.

Digestion- Phyla nodiflora is a great bitter herb, helping to improve digestion and ease stomach troubles. The juice of the root is often used as a bitter tonic and to ease gastric irritation. An infusion of the leaves and/or stalks is often given to children for “tummy upsets.” A decoction or infusion of the whole plant can also be helpful for gastric ulcers.

Kidney Stones- Frog Fruit has amazing anti-urolithiatic properties, which helps to prevent the formation of kidney stones. However, it not only prevents kidney stone formation but it also effectively treats existing stones. 

Fever, Cold, & Cough- The juice of this herb is used to help cool down those with fevers, especially in the case of malaria. The whole plant can also be steamed and inhaled to help treat cough and the common cold.

Wound Care, Burns, & Boils- Phyla nodiflora has wonderful antibacterial properties. Combined with its tendency to speed up healing, this makes it an ideal plant for wounds. It’s traditionally applied as a poultice and can also be used to soothe burns as it also has cooling, or demulcent, properties. A paste from the fresh plant can also be applied to boils as a suppurant, helping them come to a head and heal faster.

Skin Care- A ground paste of the leaves is a traditional treatment for acne and pimples. It is also used to treat chickenpox, dermatosis, eczema, leprosy, scabies, and minor wounds.

Dandruff- There are two traditional treatments for dandruff that use Frog Fruit. 

    • Hair Oil - boil coconut oil with fresh Frog Fruit leaves until it loses its water content. Remove from heat, cool, and strain. Use it as a hair oil to get rid of dandruff, also doubles as a moisturizing oil treatment. Massage it onto the scalp and leave it on for 2 hours before rinsing/washing.

    • Hair Pack - take Frog Fruit powder (enough to make a paste to cover the whole head) in a bowl, add in enough rice water and 1/4 tsp of coconut oil to it and apply as a hair pack. Wait for 30 minutes before washing. 

Joint Pain- Frog Fruit has amazing anti-inflammatory properties. A poultice can be used for treating joint pain and stiffness. Simply apply the poultice to the afflicted joint and elevate it for 30 minutes.

Hemorrhoids- This herb is a traditional remedy for hemorrhoids. Crush the fresh plant, mix it with water, and drain. This is typically taken on an empty stomach daily for about one week.

Diabetes- Phyla nodiflora has anti-diabetic properties. Helping to lower blood sugar. This makes it a very effective natural remedy for reducing blood sugar levels. It’s also a diuretic, helping to reduce water retention which can also help with diabetes.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Since this herb does have an effect on insulin levels, consult with your doctor prior to adding it into your daily routine if you are already taking diabetic medications or are a diabetic. Avoid this herb if you are pregnant.

     I only included a basic introduction to this wonderful Florida native. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Now Offering Backyard Tours! 

     Curious as to what your very own yard might contain? Contact herbalist Leann Hill at BatLadyHerbals@gmail.com for more information!

Resources:

7 Top Medicinal Uses of Phyla Nodiflora: Wild Turmeric: https://www.wildturmeric.net/phyla-nodiflora-poduthalai-medicinal-uses-health-benefits/ 

A Review on Phyla nodiflora Linn. A Wild Wetland Medicinal Herb: Global Research Online: http://globalresearchonline.net/journalcontents/v20-1/11.pdf 

Busbusi: Philippine Medicinal Plants: http://www.stuartxchange.com/Busbusi.html

Frog Fruit: Natural medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/p/phyla-nodiflora=frogfruit.php 

Frog Fruit or Match Head?: Eat The Weeds: http://www.eattheweeds.com/frog-fruit-or-match-head/ 

Phyla Nodiflora: Folk Medicine Sindh: http://folkmedsindh.com.pk/phyla-nodiflora-l/

Phyla Nodiflora: Herbpathy: https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Phyla-Nodiflora-Cid1173 

Phyla Nodiflora: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Phyla+nodiflora 

Phyla Nodiflora: Useful Tropical Plants: http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Phyla+nodiflora 

Phyla Nodiflora, Jalapippali: Medicine Traditions: https://www.medicinetraditions.com/phyla-nodiflora-jalapippali.html 

Oxalis

     There are a few plants that I grew up eating, only finding out later in life that they are also medicinal. This one is especially good for the Spring time, as it’s often mistaken for clover (I don’t really know how as the leaves and flowers appear completely different to me) and is also commonly referred to as Florida’s Shamrock. This plant also flowers around Easter every year, though here in Central Florida it’s almost always flowering.

     There are over 850 species in the family Oxalidaceae. This family consists of five genera of herbaceous plants, small shrubs, and trees, with the great majority of the species being in the genus Oxalis (wood sorrels). Members of this family typically have divided leaves, the leaflets showing "sleep movements", spreading open in light and closing in darkness. There are at least seven species in Florida, all edible, (three of them rare) and they have either pink or yellow blossoms. The seven more common species found in Florida are O. articulata, corniculata, debilis, latifolia, macrantha, triangularis and violacea. The rare ones are O. articulata, triangularis, and violacea, I recommend that you avoid wildcrafting and/or foraging those as the other four are readily available and interchangeably used. All parts are edible including the root bulb, which is succulent and sweet. Above ground it tastes quite lemony and can be used to make a drink similar to lemonade.

Check out this video from Eat The Weeds

Check out a companion video all about Oxalis!

 

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- There are a number of species used world wide, some of the more commonly used common names for these species include: Common Yellow Woodsorrel, Creeping Lady’s Sorrel, Creeping Oxalis, Creeping Wood Sorrel, Fairy Bells, Indian Penny Wood, Indian Sorrel, Procumbent Yellow Sorrel, Shamrock, Sleeping Beauty, Sour Grass, Soursob, Tufted Yellow Wood Sorrel, Woodsorrel, Wood Sorrel

Scientific Name- Oxalis spp. There are over 500 species. Some of the more commonly used species include: O. acetosella, articulata, bushii, corniculata (previously known as stricta), debilis (previously known as corymbosa), latifolia, macrantha, pes-caprae, purpurea, regnellii, triangularis, tuberosa, and violacea. 

Edibility-  All parts are edible including the root bulb, which is succulent and sweet. The delicate leaves of this weed have a sour, citrus-like taste and is ideal for salads and for use as a garnish. However it wilts quickly and should be used soon after picking. The flowers are also edible. I am also partial to adding the leaves and flowers to my omelets, soups, and using it as a pot herb. Wood sorrel in particular should not be eaten in large quantities (we’re talking multiple pounds in one sitting...quite hard to accomplish, but possible) because of its high oxalic acid content, which can be poisonous in large amounts and has been linked to kidney stones. However, the quantity of oxalic acid will be reduced if the leaves are cooked. The dried plant can be used as a curdling agent for plant milks

Nutrition Information- The entire plant is edible and is rich source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, and Potassium. The important phytochemical constituents isolated from the plant are flavonoids, tannins, phytosterols, phenol, glycosides, fatty acids, galacto-glycero lipid and volatile oils.

Summary of Actions- Anodyne, Antiscorbutic, Astringent, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Irritant, Refrigerant, Stomachic, Anti-inflammatory, Anxiolytic, Anticonvulsant, Antifungal, Antiulcer, Antinociceptive, Anticancer, Antidiabetic, Hepatoprotective, Hypolipidemic, Abortifacient, and Antimicrobial.

Energetics and Flavors- Sour, Tart, Cold, Moistening

Parts Used- Leaves, Flowers, Seeds, Immature Green Seed Pods, and Tubers

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Cu Jiang Cao, Oxalis works on the Stomach, Bladder, and Lung Meridians. It clears Heat and supports Stomach Yin, which makes it useful for fevers, thirst, sore throat, cold sores, headache, and prevents scurvy. It also clears damp heat, which means it is good for sinusitis, congestion, headaches, diarrhea, dysentery, jaundice, kidney stones, gravel, and herpes. Oxalis also stops bleeding.

Ayurveda- Called Changeri in Ayurvedic Traditions, Oxalis is used for treating stomach and liver problems including abdominal tumors, piles, leprosy, and dysentery. It balances vata and kapha doshas. It’s sour in taste, and hot in potency, which aggravates pitta dosha.

Domestic and Other Traditional Uses- Red to brown, orange, and yellow dyes can be obtained from this plant. In Canada, it’s used as a weed for glasshouses. The juice of the leaves removes iron mould stains from linen

High in Vitamin C- Because of it’s high levels of Vitamin C, Oxalis is a traditional treatment for Scurvy, a disease that results from Vitamin C deficiency.

Fevers & Flu- It's cooling action appears to help reduce the discomfort of fevers when taken in a tea made at 1 ounce of herb to 1 pint of water.

Cardiovascular System- Useful as a general Cardio-tonic and blood cleanser. 

Skin & Wound Care- Externally, the leaves are crushed and applied locally to dispel boils and abscesses, they also have an astringent affect on wounds. The leaves also provide some benefits when made into an ointment for cuts, scrapes, rashes, and skin infections.

Digestive Issues- strengthen a weak stomach, produce an appetite, check vomiting, and remove obstructions of the viscera.

Mouth Sores & Ulcers- Taken as a gargle it also seems to have some effect on mouth sores or ulcers.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- This plant is high in Oxalic Acid, those prone to kidney stones, and those afflicted with gout, rheumatism, and hyperacidity may want to avoid using this herb medicinally.

Do Not Use With Metals- Do not cook sorrel in cast iron or aluminum cookware. The oxalic acid in the plant reacts with the metals to produce a metallic flavor.  When using aluminum, the acids in sorrel may allow potentially toxic quantities of aluminum ions to leak from the cookware.






     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing, often overlooked, plant. If you have any questions or comments please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adventures in Nature. Find me on YouTube and check out my videos! I also have a few things up on Teespring, check it out! Also, if you like what I do and what to see more, Become a Patron!

Resources:

Acetosella, Wood Sorrel: Medicine Traditions: https://www.medicinetraditions.com/acetosella-wood-sorrel.html

Changeri (Oxalis corniculata): Planet Ayurveda: https://www.planetayurveda.com/library/changeri-oxalis-corniculata/

Edible Weeds that are Safe to Eat and How to Use Them: ABC Health & Wellbeing: https://www.abc.net.au/news/health/2016-05-12/edible-weeds-and-how-you-can-use-them/7406004

Florida’s Native Shamrocks: Florida Native Plant Society: http://fnpsblog.blogspot.com/2012/03/oxalis-corniculata-floridas-lucky.html

Flower Friday- Creeping Woodsorrel: Florida Wildflower Foundation: https://flawildflowers.org/flower-friday-oxalis-corniculata/

Garden Sorrel (Cu Jiang Cao): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/garden-sorrel/

Important Medicinal Facts About Changeri (Oxalis corniculata): Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Scinces: http://ccras.nic.in/content/important-medicinal-facts-about-changeri-oxalis-corniculata-l

Medicinal Uses of Oxalis (Wood Sorrel): Gardens Ablaze: http://www.gardensablaze.com/HerbOxalisMed.htm

Oxalis: Atlas of Florida Plants: https://florida.plantatlas.usf.edu/Genus.aspx?id=876

Oxalis acetosella: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?latinname=Oxalis+acetosella

Oxalis corniculata: Always Ayurveda: https://www.alwaysayurveda.com/oxalis-corniculata/

Oxalis corniculata: Florida Native Plant Society: https://www.fnps.org/plants/plant/oxalis-corniculata

Oxalis corniculata: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/plant.aspx?LatinName=Oxalis+corniculata

Oxalis corniculata: Useful Tropical Plants: http://tropical.theferns.info/viewtropical.php?id=Oxalis+corniculata

Oxalis- How to Drown Your Sorrels: Eat The Weeds: http://www.eattheweeds.com/oxalis-how-to-drown-your-sorrels/

Oxalis or Wood Sorrel: Julia’s Edible Weeds: http://www.juliasedibleweeds.com/general/oxalis-wood-sorrel/

Oxalis stricta: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=OXST

Sorrel, Wood: A Modern Herbal: https://botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/s/sorwoo68.html

Wood Sorrel: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/o/oxalis-acetosella=wood-sorrel.php

Wood Sorrel: WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-228/wood-sorrel

Wood Sorrel: Wild Edible: https://www.wildedible.com/wild-food-guide/wood-sorrel

Wood Sorrel: Wild Food UK: https://www.wildfooduk.com/edible-wild-plants/wood-sorrel/

Wood Sorrel- A Nutritious Edible Weed: Dengarden: https://dengarden.com/gardening/oxalis

Wood Sorrel (Cu Jiang Cao): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/wood-sorrel/

Wood Sorrel- Oxalis stricta: Edible Wild Food: https://www.ediblewildfood.com/wood-sorrel.aspx

Yellow Sorrel: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/o/oxalis-corniculata=yellow-sorrel.php

Violet, for health and heart

     My husband and I enjoy a good hike, especially this time of year, before the heat of the summer. One of our favorite things to do is to watch all the wildflowers grow and bloom. While Florida's main wildflower season is usually in the fall, the spring also brings a bunch of beautiful blossoms. One, in particular, always stands out to me (possibly because my favorite color is purple) and that's the Violet.

     There are over 550 species of Violet world-wide, and we have about 10 here in Florida. All of them have similar medicinal and edible qualities, so they're all pretty much interchangeable. The most common one you'll find in North America, and especially here in the South East region of the US, is the Common Violet, or Viola sororia. This little flower is a light blueish purple color with heart shaped leaves. However the super fascinating bit about this plant is the other flowers that develop below ground. These subterranean blooms are the part of the plant that actually produce the seeds and only emerge from the ground when they're ready to spread those seeds. Some people refer to these flowers as “Plan B” flowers, which fairly accurate. If you were a plant who's leaves and flowers were so pretty that every little girl wants to pick them all, or so tasty that every passing animal wants to eat them all, wouldn't you want a different method of propagation for yourself? A “Plan B” so to speak?

Here are some examples of what different Violets may look like.

Special Announcement Time!!!:

     I have finally done it! I've made a video! And guess what... it's on VIOLETS! Check it out here and please follow, subscribe, like, and comment on it! Also, keep in mind it's my very first video. I am well aware that the editing is a bit rough. Practice makes perfect, so the more videos I make, the better they'll be, and I plan on making many more of these videos.

Now back to the lovely Violet 

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Viola spp. Most commonly used are Viola ororata, Viola sororia, Viola tricolor, and Viola yezoensis

Common Names- Ordinary violet, Common blue violet, Sweet violet, Garden violet, Common violet, Chinese violet, and other common names throughout the world.

Parts Used- All parts of this herb are used in various ways, however the most commonly used parts are the flowers and leaves. The roots tend to cause nausea and vomiting, so they are used in selective preparations.

Parts Eaten- Eat the aerial parts of the plant, the flowers and leaves, raw or cooked. The roots of most species can cause nausea and vomiting so it's best to avoid those. Violet is often used used to decorate cakes, salads, poultry, and fish. Candied violets are preserved with a coating of egg white and crystallized sugar.

Summary of Actions- Antioxidant, Anthocyanin, Uterotonic, Anticancer, Cathartic, Emollient, Laxative, Nervine, Antitussive, Antiscrofulous, Anodyne,  Depurative,  Diuretic, emetic, Refrigerant

General Benefits and Energetics- Violets are cooling and moist. They nourish and uplift our bodies and our spirits. However, they're not a nervine, nor are they antidepressant. They help to calm people who tend to be slightly “hotheaded,” especially if you notice an outburst looming. Violet tends to soften and bring about more flexibility in those who tend to be rigid, especially in their reaction to stress. Due to it's nourishing nature, the best way to gain it's benefits are by eating this lovely plant. The flowers make for a beautiful addition to any salad, cookie, cake, or even frozen in ice cubes. The leaves make a great, nutrient rich, thickener for soups and sauces. Put the flowers and leaves in water and allow to sit in the sun for a while, this makes a great sipping tea. Drying the leaves and making an overnight infusion is also a great way to get all the nutrients this little plant has to offer, this is especially great when you combine Violets with Nettles.

Flower Essence- The essence of Violet helps to open people up, this is especially useful for shy people who are searching for a new job, or anyone who is looking to start a new friendship. It also helps to calm down heat centered personalities. Helping hot headed people to maintain an even keel.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Zi Hua di Ding in Chinese Medicine, Violet/Pansy works on the Heart and Liver Meridians. It's spicy, bitter, and cold properties are used to clear heat, remove toxins, and resolve masses. It's helpful in treating boils and carbuncles. It's also used to treat snake bites and inflammation. It's used in conjunction with dandelion to eliminate toxicity and is used to help treat cold deficient conditions.

Lymphatic System and Cancer- This herb is considered a great lymphatic stimulant. It helps to move the lymph, unclog blocked lymph nodes, and over time it can also clear up some of the more stubborn problems associated with slow or static lymph. This also helps to shrink tumors and clear up certain types of cancer before they can take hold and cause health problems.

Dry Skin, Wounds, and Insect Bites- Violet's mucilage content helps to soothe sore, inflamed skin. This makes it great for eczema, psoriasis, and other skin conditions. However it also works well to speed the healing of wounds and insect bites. It's also known to help bring boils to a head and to aid in their draining, helping to speed their healing.

Circulatory System, Varicose Veins, and Hemorrhoids-  Violet is considered to be a blood cleanser and circulatory tonic, but it''s anti-inflammatory actions work especially well on varicose veins and hemorrhoids. It works really well as a poultice for this action.

Digestion- Violet is one of many plants that contain a slimy substance that we commonly refer to as Mucilage. Mucilage is a great aid to digestion as it lubricates the entire GI tract, and I do mean the ENTIRE tract. It helps soothe any irritation and helps to move your food through the digestive processes, especially in cases of constipation. It really does aid just about everything from your mouth through to your bum.

Breast Health- Violet helps to clear up growths in the lymphatic tissues that make up our breasts. It helps to reduce the size of the growths and to clear up lumps, cysts, mastitis, plugged milk ducts, and fibrocystic breasts. In this case, violet is especially potent in the form of an infused oil. Just use the oil externally, as a massage oil, and give yourself a good breast massage. The action of the massage will help move congested lymph fluids and the violet will boost this action.

Headaches- Violet is a mild analgesic, which means that it does have some pain relieving properties. However, there are much better herbal analgesics out there, so it's not the first plant I'd call on for a headache or any other pain. However, it can be super helpful, especially in cases where your headache is caused more from dehydration (as is a large percentage of headaches), just add a bit of violet to your water, or make a quick tea, and drink away the pain.

Contraindications and Warnings- Consuming the root of a violet may cause nausea and vomiting.


     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing and beautiful little herb.  If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

References:

7 Flowers Used in Chinese Medicine: Mercola: https://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/08/31/7-flowers-chinese-medicine.aspx

Medicinal and Culinary Uses of Shy Violet: Heirloom Gardener: https://www.heirloomgardener.com/plant-profiles/medicinal-and-culinary-uses-for-shy-violet-zm0z19szhoe?utm_sq=g1ercttptv

Sweet Violet: Web MD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-212/sweet-violet

The Virtues of Violets: The Herbal Academy: https://theherbalacademy.com/health-benefits-of-violets/

Violet: Alternative Nature Online Herbal: https://learnaboutherbs.com/gallery/violet.htm

Violet: Annie's Remedy: https://www.anniesremedy.com/viola-spp-violet-leaf.php

Violet: Susan Weed: http://www.susunweed.com/An_Article_wisewoman3e.htm

Violet Herb: Herbs with Rosalee: https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/violet-herb.html

Violet (Wild Pansy): Ageless: https://ageless.co.za/herb-violet.htm

Violet (Pansy): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/violet-pansy/

Violet's Edible and Medicinal Uses: Chestnut School of Herbal Medicine: https://chestnutherbs.com/violets-edible-and-medicinal-uses/

Violet, Sweet: A Modern Herbal: https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/v/vioswe12.html

Zi Hua Di Ding (Viola or Yedeon's Violet): Sacred Lotus Chinese Medicine: https://www.sacredlotus.com/go/chinese-herbs/substance/zi-hua-di-ding-viola-yedeons-violet

Rose

     Happy February! The month of love, romance, and chocolate hearts is upon us. What better time to share all the wonderful benefits of everyone's favorite romantic flower, the lovely Rose.

     Known the world over for love and romance, the Rose is an amazing herb for all matters of the heart. Even Shakespeare wrote of it's power in love, but the Rose's fame goes back much further than the Bard's time. In ancient Egypt, the rose was sacred to the goddess Isis. In ancient Greece and Rome, it was sacred to Aphrodite and Venus. Romans also scattered rose petals along the routes of funerals, both for protection and to symbolize rebirth.  In both Islam and Sufism, the rose symbolizes divine love and was often depicted in art, architecture, and used in landscapes.  In the Medieval era, Christians attributed the rose to both Christ and the blood of martyrs. Catholics later used the rose for the Virgin Mary and used rose petals to make the beads for what would later be called the rosary. In China, red roses had a special place because red was an auspicious color, so red roses symbolized luck, love, and fortune.  Even Native Americans were well acquainted with this plant and it's uses.

     There are over 100 species of Rose with thousands of cultivars. Generally speaking, a rose is a woody plant in the genus Rosa, within the family Rosaceae.  Roses can be shrubs, or they can be climbing or trailing like vines, with stems that are often armed with sharp prickles that we typically refer to as thorns. Flowers vary in size, color, and shape. The fruit is a berry-like structure called a rose hip. The Rosa gallica (Provence Rose), R. eglanteria (Eglantine Rose) and R. damascene (Damask Rose) are the three oldest roses in cultivation. Most species are native to Asia, with smaller numbers native to Europe, North America, and northwestern Africa. Persia is considered the likely origin of the flower.

     In addition to the famous flower, roses have a great fruit that is not only delicious, but also full of medicinal properties all on it's own. Rose hips are full of vitamin C, and taste a bit citrus-y because of it. These berry-like fruit make a great jam, are delicious when added to salads, and super versatile in the kitchen. Try re-hydrating the dry hips and adding them into your favorite muffin recipe, or using them to flavor your favorite poultry dish. Check out the Montana Homesteader's tips on foraging for rose hips and recipes, there's bound to be several you'll fall in love with.

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Names- Rosaceae (the whole family) Commonly these species are used medicinally: Rosa gallica officinalis, R. damascene, R. canina, R. chinensis, Flos Rosae Rugosae, and R. centifolia

Common Names- Rose

Parts Used- Rose Hips (fruit), Petals, Flower Buds, Leaves, and Bark

Summary of Actions-  Anticancer, Antidepressant, Antiscorbutic, Antispasmodic, Aphrodisiac, Aromatic, Astringent, Coagulant/Hemostatic, Cordial, Depurative, Emmenagogue, Hepatic, Laxative, Nervine, Refrigerant, Sedative, Skin tonic, Stomachic, and Uterine Tonic.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)-  Mei Gui Hua (Rose) is used for the heart, liver, spleen, and stomach meridians. Used as a decongestant and astringent, rose is considered to have a draining action that clears heat and cools. It moves Qi, dispersing stagnation, particularly that of liver Qi. It aids in the case of constipation, headache, nausea, belching, and poor appetite. It clears heat and calms the heart, helping clear up fertility issues and depression. It also harmonizes the blood, easing many menses-related problems and helping promote urination.

Ayurveda-  Known in Sanskrit as Satapatri and in Hindi as Gulab ka phool, which translates roughly as 100 petals. In Ayurveda, rose has three main healing attributes; it is soothing, cooling, and moisturizing. But it is most valued because of it's balancing effect on the heart, both physically and emotionally. 

Native American Traditions- Each of the Native American tribes had a use for roses. The Omahas and Chippewa used the roots and hips to treat eye infections and inflammation in the eyes. The Chippewa also used rose hips as a staple food. The Arapahos used the seeds to treat muscle pain. Cheyenne and Flathead both used the petal, stem, and roots to treat snow blindness, but the Cheyenne also made a tea from the bark to treat upset stomach and diarrhea. The Crows boiled the roots and used the vapor to stop mouth and nose bleeds. They also used the roots in a hot compress to treat inflammation.

Essential Oil-  Rose Essential Oil is one of the most expensive on the market, and deservedly so since it takes over 1,000 rose flowers to produce ¼ oz of the oil. However, if you can afford it, diffusing the rose essential oil is a great way to relieve insomnia, reduce nervous tension, and help to lower your blood pressure.

Stress and Anxiety-  Rose is packed full of comforting qualities and helps to soothe nerves and anxieties. It may not completely alleviate the impact of stress and anxiety for those with severe problems, but it may help reduce them and can be very beneficial in the long term.

Comfort for the Grieving-  Rose balances the emotions of the heart, helping to comfort those who are grieving.

Cool Off-  Rose helps to regulate the body temperature during the warmer months.

Allergies, Seasonal Stress, and Illness-  Rose tea (petals and/or hips) helps soothe sore throats, and it's packed full of vitamin C to help boost the immune system and knock out that cold.

Hair, Acne, and Skincare-  Rose water is one of my favorite face washes/make up removers. Not only does it work to clean your skin, while still being gentle enough to use around your eyes, but it's also super anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and astringent so it's great to help prevent and treat acne. Rose also helps to lock in the moisture in the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It's also been shown to help reduce the appearance of spider veins. Rose has also been studied recently for it's effect on Scalp Seborrheic Dermatitis. The findings, thus far, have been very positive.

Wounds- A powder from the petals and dried leaves has been traditionally used to help speed the healing of wounds. In some cultures, the petals were even used to pack surgical wounds to help prevent infection.

Digestion-  Rose petals and hips help to stimulate the body's bile production, which greatly aids digestion, particularly the digestion of fats. It also helps to balance the gut's microbiome, helping to keep the bad bacteria and yeasts in check, while boosting the effectiveness of the good bacteria and yeast cultures. It's also a mild laxative and makes a great, gentile, tea for constipation.

Healthy Heart-  Rose helps to lower blood pressure and is packed full of helpful antioxidants that help keep the circulatory system healthy.

Great for All Feminine Needs-  Traditionally, rose tea has been consumed to help ease menstrual cramps and regulate periods, but it's also great for so many other feminine concerns. Rose tea has been shown to help ease the symptoms of PMS in certain women and it's also traditionally taken during labor to help aid in childbirth.

Contraindications and Warnings- Rose is generally considered to be safe and no adverse side effects have been reported. Despite its safety, some experts warn that you should limit the amount you drink to a maximum of 5 cups per day because consuming too much vitamin C can have certain adverse effects, such as diarrhea. Drinking too much rose tea could potentially cause dizziness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea or headaches.



     I only included a basic introduction to this beautiful plant.  I hope you have learned a new appreciation roses, beyond that of their unparalleled beauty.  If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

References:

10 Science Backed Benefits of Rose Tea: Healthy Focus: https://healthyfocus.org/8-benefits-of-rose-tea/

34 Ways to Use Rose: Herbal Academy: https://theherbalacademy.com/34-ways-to-use-roses/

Benefits, Ayurvedic Remedies of Rose Plant and Essential Oil: Easy Ayurveda: https://easyayurveda.com/2016/05/30/benefits-remedies-rose-essential-oil/

Natural Home Remedy- Rosa Centifolia: Natural Home Remedies: http://naturalhomeremedies.co/Rose.html

Rose: Dig Herbs: https://www.digherbs.com/rose.html

Rose: White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/rose/

Rose- Herb of the Year: Vitality Magazine: https://vitalitymagazine.com/article/rose-herb-of-the-year/

Rose Herb Uses, Benefits, Cures, Side Effects, Nutrients: Herbpathy: https://herbpathy.com/Uses-and-Benefits-of-Rose-Cid323

Rose In Ayurveda: Warrior Goddess Ayurveda: http://www.warriorgoddessayurveda.com/2015/07/rose-in-ayurveda/

Rose- Rosa Centifolia: Planet Ayurveda: https://www.planetayurveda.com/library/rose-rosa-centifolia/

Roses: A Modern Herbal: https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/r/roses-18.html

The Medicinal Uses of Rose: Healing With Plants: http://healingwithplants.us/2017/06/the-medicinal-uses-of-rose/

Plantain

     I love being outside. It's a great way to detox from “city life” as well as just a good time. You get to see lots of natural and beautiful sights you wouldn't see if you stayed inside all the time. You also put yourself at risk of bug bites, scratches, and stings. There's an amazing little herb that can help with those, and many other issues. Plantain. Not the banana that we often find fried up in Hispanic Cuisine. This plantain is commonly found all over the world. We even have a native one here, in Florida.

Plantago major, Broad-leaved Plantain

     Plantago major, P. lanceolata, and P. virginica are all commonly found in the U.S. P. major is a broad-leaved species, commonly called Broad-leaved Plantain or Waybroad, that is not native to America, but was brought over by the European settlers. There's an old wives tale that attributes the discovery of this plant to Alexander the Great who then brought it with him to Europe in 327 BCE. However the Saxons and Norse considered it one of their 9 sacred herbs, given to them by Odin himself. This species, as well as P. lanceolata, were nicknamed by the Native Americans as “Whiteman's foot” because it seemed like everywhere the Europeans settled, one of these plants would soon emerge. P. lanceolata is also not native to America, but it's a narrow-leaved species commonly known as English Plantain. P. virginica, was first “discovered” in Virginia, but it's native habitat extends throughout most of the South East portion of America. It's much smaller than either of it's European cousins, many people have a hard time believing that it's a plantain.

 

Plantago lanceolata, English Plantain

     All of the plantain species are both medicinal and edible, in fact they are all pretty much interchangeable in their uses. They're commonly found near trails, roads, sidewalks, and in meadows. Young leaves can be eaten raw and taste similar to Swiss chard. When the leaves mature, they get a little tough and are much more palatable when cooked.

Plantago virginica, Virginia Plantain

Medicinal Uses:

Summary of Actions- Refrigerant, diuretic, mildly astringent, useful as an anti-inflammatory, a vulnerary, and a mild styptic. Useful as a relaxing expectorant, to tonify mucus membranes, reduce phlegm, and as an alterative. Can be used as an antispasmodic and often used topically for healing.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Plantain seeds, or Che Qian Zi, are used in TCM. They work best on the bladder, kidney, lung, and liver meridians. The leaves are slightly bitter, slightly salty, and acrid. The roots are slightly salty and slightly sweet. The seeds are sweet and cold. The seeds are most commonly used in TCM to drain damp, promote urination, regulate water, and clear heat.

Ayurveda- Blond Psyllium, Plantago ovata, was introduced to India by the Arabs and has been seen in Persian and Arabic medical texts since at least the 10^th century. In Ayurvedic medicine, plantain is used to improve bowel movements, both thickening them (in the case of diarrhea) and loosening them (for constipation). It is also used to relive problems associated with Irritable Bowels. It's also used to control blood sugar and cholesterol.

Plantago ovata, Blond Psyllium

Nourishment- Plantain is packed full of nutrients such as vitamins A, C, and K, magnesium, calcium, and other minerals. The seeds are also packed full of protein.

First Aid: Burns- Use a poultice of plantain, immediately after the burn, and bandage it. Change this dressing every 30 minutes. For minor burns, you only need to use the poultice once. Wash with a strong plantain tea (chilled if at all possible) in between dressing changes. After the burn has lost it's heat, remove the dressing, wash it, and apply a plantain salve to help speed the healing process, but don't apply the salve until the heat has dissipated. The oils used in the process of making a salve can seal in the heat and cause more damage to the deeper tissues.

First Aid: Poison Ivy/Sumac/Oak- Apply a poultice immediately and bandage. Change the dressing every 30 minutes until the sting is gone. Wash with strong plantain tea or diluted tincture in between dressing changes.

First Aid: Scratches, Cuts, and Scrapes- Stop bleeding by applying crushed plantain leaves. Wash with plantain tea or diluted tincture to help reduce inflammation and chances for infection.

First Aid: Insect Stings/Bites- Apply a poultice, or crushed leaves, immediately and bandage. Remove bandage after sting dissipates.

First Aid: Venomous Bites- Apply a poultice of the roots immediately, and bandage. Get to a hospital ASAP. If possible, capture or kill the animal in question so that the doctor can correctly identify the anti-venom needed. The plantain should help reduce the spread of the venom, but you still need to get an anti-venom from a hospital, just to be sure. Some people have reported amazing results when mixing plantain root with activated charcoal. However, venomous bites can be a seriously life-threatening situation so you should use the utmost caution and follow the advice of a doctor.

Throat Pain and Infections- Gargle with strong plantain tea to help reduce throat pain and speed the healing of infections in the throat. Add a good measure of salt to help boost the effects.

Respiratory Infections- Drinking warm plantain tea, sweetened with honey, helps to fight respiratory infections. You can also use the tincture for the same purpose.

Liver, Kidney, and Bladder Function- Drinking 1-2 glasses of plantain tea on a daily basis can drastically improve liver, kidney, and bladder function. A stronger tea can be used to help fight infections.

Skin Conditions- A tincture or salve made from plantain can be used to help kill the bacteria that cause boils and acne. It's also really good for the skin in general as it helps to speed the healing of any eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, etc.

Panacea- A panacea is an all-purpose solution, or a cure-all. This herb certainly has been used for a wide enough variety of problems that it can be considered a panacea.

     I only included a basic introduction to this amazing herb. I hope you have learned a new appreciation for how amazing plantain is. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

Refrences:

Common Plantain as Chinese Herbal Medicine: Medicine Grove: http://www.medicinegrove.com/blog-mind-body-connection/common-plantain-chinese-herbal-medicine

Do Not Kill This Weed!: Natural Living Ideas: http://www.naturallivingideas.com/plantain-benefits-uses/

Medicinal Properties of Plantain: Green Med Info: http://www.greenmedinfo.com/blog/medicinal-properties-plantain

Plantago Ovata: Always Ayurveda: http://www.alwaysayurveda.com/plantago-vata/

Plantain: East West Healing Academy: https://www.eastwesthealingacademy.com/herbs/plantain/

Plantain: Herbalpedia: http://www.herbalpedia.com/blog/?p=180

Plantain: Indian Mirror: http://www.indianmirror.com/ayurveda/plantain.html

Plantain, A Healing Herb in your Backyard: Wellness Mama: https://wellnessmama.com/5387/plantain-healing-herb/

Plantain, Common: A Modern Herbal: http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/placom43.html

Plantain, First Aid in your Backyard: Susan Weed: http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/July05/healingwise.htm

Plantain Seeds: Chinese Herbs Healing: http://www.chineseherbshealing.com/plantain-seeds-che-qian-zi/