Butterfly Weed

 

     When my husband and I go hiking we always tend to stop and examine interesting plants. Recently I was complaining that I’ve never actually gotten to see one of our native milkweeds even though we do hike at the times they’re blooming. Then on one of our recent hikes, my husband points at a beautiful orange flower in a grassy area, and guess what. It’s a milkweed! I think I may have done a happy dance. Further along the trail, in a different grassy area, we run across a different milkweed species, so the same hike provided me with two distinct species of native milkweeds to get nerdy about. The orange one is a traditional medicine and food of the indigenous people, so I thought I may share a bit of information about it here.

 

     Asclepias tuberosa is a member of the Apocynaceae family. Some of you may be wondering why I’m not listing it as a member of the Asclepiadaceae family. DNA sequencing has affected plant taxonomy quite a bit in recent years. One of the changes is that Asclepiadaceae has been demoted from family to subfamily and has been absorbed by the Apocynaceae family. This means that A. tuberosa is a member of the subfamily Asclepiadaceae in the family Apocynaceae. This plant is also a member of the genus Asclepias which contains about 80 different species. Butterfly weed is a perennial herb native to North America. Its range extends from Southern Ontario and New York to Minnesota, south to Florida and Colorado. It prefers to grow in dry open fields, along roadsides, and grassy places. Butterfly weed root is spindle-shaped, large, branching, white, and fleshy with a knotted crown, it sends up several erect, stout, round, and hairy stems, growing from 1 to 3 feet high. Stems are branched near the top and have corymbs or umbels of many deep yellows to dark orange, or almost red, flowers. The leaves grow closely all the way up the stem and are hairy, unserrated, lance-shaped, alternate, sessile, and dark green on top, lighter green beneath. A. tuberosa flowers bloom from May to September, followed in the fall by seed pods from 4 to 5 inches long, containing the seeds with their long silky hairs or floss. This plant, unlike the other milkweeds, contains no latex so the sap is clear.

 

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Asclepias tuberosa

Common Names- Pleurisy Root, Butterfly Weed, Butterfly Milkweed, Colic Root, Orange Milkweed, White root, Chigger Flower, Fluxroot, Indian Posy, Wind Root

Family- Apocynaceae (Dogbane family) which has been recently broadened to include the subfamily Asclepiadaceae (Milkweed family) based on DNA sequencing

Summary of Actions- Expectorant, Antispasmodic, Antitussive, Emetic, Mildly Cathartic, Diaphoretic, Carminative, Tonic, Demulcent, Cooling, Vasodilator, Estrogenic 

  

Energetics & Flavors- Bitter, Cool, Dry

Parts Used- Root (generally harvested after the second year of growth during the plant’s dormant season), Sometimes Leaves and the Whole Plant 

 

Active Constituents- Glycosides (including Asclepaidin and Cardioactive glycosides), Alkaloids, Tannic and Gallic acids, Resins, Bitters, Essential oil, Fixed oil resins

Edibility- Young Shoots, Flower Buds, and Stems are all edible. 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Xiong Moyan Gen in TCM, Butterfly Weed is known to be associated with both the lung and large intestine meridians. It promotes sweating, releases to the exterior, tonifies the lungs, clears heat, and reduces swelling. This makes it a great herb for colds, coughs with no or difficult expectoration, bronchitis, pleurisy, and croup. It also moves Qi, relieving spasms including those in the uterus. Xiong Moyan Gen also restores the liver, promotes urination, benefits the skin, and clears wind heat. Pleurisy root is not native to China, but has in modern times been combined with the popular Chinese herb, skullcap, to help treat pneumonia.

Ayurvedic- The use of this beautiful plant has found it’s way from North America all the way to India and now has a place in modern Ayurvedic medicine. In Ayurveda, it is used much the same way that modern Western herbalism uses it. The root is used for many different pulmonary conditions such as asthma, bronchitis, and pleurisy. 

Traditional Native American Uses- Many Native American tribes used this lovely plant for a variety of ailments, though the most common use was for pulmonary complaints, that wasn’t the only use for this amazing herb. The Menominee considered this plant one of their most important medicines. Most indigenous people chewed fresh roots from the plant to help treat bronchitis, pleurisy, and other respiratory illnesses. Others, such as the Omaha and Navajo, preferred to make a tea or tincture and ingest it that way. Butterfly weed helped to ease pain and breathing difficulties caused by these illnesses by loosening mucus, soothing inflammation, and helping with long-term recovery. Some tribes also used butterfly weed to help treat bruises. The roots were pounded or chewed into a mushy texture and used as the main ingredient for bruises, swelling, cuts, and other external injuries. The mixture is applied externally to the area of concern as well as ingested as a tonic.

Lung (Pulmonary) Complaints- A. tuberosa is considered one of the best herbal expectorants available while also being cool and relaxing. A cupful of warm infusion (1 teaspoon of powder in a cup of boiling water) taken every hour will quickly and effectively promote perspiration and release stuck phlegm. It also works to reduce the swelling of mucus membranes such as those that line the lungs, this makes it an excellent herb for asthma and bronchitis. 

 

Acute Fevers- Butterfly weed can be used to help in the case of acute fevers by promoting perspiration. Commonly, it’s combined with angelica (Angelica archangelica) and/or sassafras (Sassafras albidum) in these cases. Acute fevers are also often associated with body aches and pain. The analgesic properties of this herb help to ease those aches and pains as well.

  

Digestive Complaints- Butterfly weed is carminitave and antispasmodic which makes it an excellent herb to treat many digestive issues. Some of the more common issues this plant is used for include diarrhea, colic, indigestion, and flatulence.

  

Skin & Wound Care- This plant can be of great benefit to the skin, both in wound care and in general skin care. It is frequently used for skin conditions such as eczema and traditionally used to help speed the healing of wounds. Part of why it works so well for this is its anti-inflammatory property. It also contains pregnane glycosides which have an anti-aging effect on the skin.

Other Uses- Fibers from this plant have been traditionally used to make rope and fabric.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- May cause nausea and vomiting, excessive consumption may also cause heart issues. It may also interfere with certain medications. Do not use during pregnancy (it can over stimulate the uterus), during lactation or with infants, due to small amounts of cardiac glycosides that can be toxic. Canadian regulations do not allow pleurisy root as an ingredient in oral products

 

 

 

 

 

    

I only included a basic introduction to this beautiful native milkweed. If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram or updates on my adven-tures 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:

Apocynaceae: Britannica: https://www.britannica.com/plant/Gentianales/Apocynaceae#ref94851

Asclepias tuberosa: Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=astu

Asclepias tuberosa: The Medicinal Plant Garden of Birmingham-Southern College: https://medicinalgarden.trekbirmingham.com/asclepias-tuberosa/

Asclepias tuberosa: Misouri Botanical Garden: https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=b490

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

Asclepias tuberosa (butterfly weed/pleurisy root): Lucy Meriwether Lewis Marks: https://www.monticello.org/sites/library/exhibits/lucymarks/gallery/butterflyweed.html

Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa L.): US Forest Service: https://www.fs.fed.us/wildflowers/plant-of-the-week/asclepias_tuberosa.shtml

Butterfly Weed A Native Prairie Medicine: Indiana Native Plants: https://indiananativeplants.org/images/resources/Gordon%20Mitchell%20Articles/GM_butterfly_weed.pdf

Butterfly Weed Herb: Alternative Nature Online Herbal: https://altnature.com/gallery/butterflyweed.htm

Monograph: asclepias tuberosa.: Journal of the American Herbalists Guild

Native American Medicinal Uses of Butterfly Weed: Ordway Field Station: https://sites.google.com/a/macalester.edu/ordwipedia/traditional-ecological-knowledge-tek-from-ling-225/butterfly-weed

New 8,12;8,20-diepoxy-8,14-secopregnane hexa- and hepta-glycosides from the roots of Asclepias tuberosa.: Journal of Natural Medicines: doi:10.1007/s11418-017-1155-9

Pleurisy: Indian Mirror: https://www.indianmirror.com/ayurveda/pleurisy.html

Pleurisy Root: A Modern Herbal: https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/pleuri52.html

Pleurisy Root: Eclectic School of Herbal Medicine: https://www.eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/pleu/

Pleurisy Root: Natural Medicines Database

Pleurisy Root: RxList: https://www.rxlist.com/pleurisy_root/supplements.htm

Pleurisy Root (Xiong Moyan Gen): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/pleurisy-root/

What are the uses and benefits of Pleurisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa)?: Planet Ayurveda: https://www.planetayurveda.com/pleurisy-root/

Common Buttonbush

    

     Have you ever run into a plant (literally or figuratively) that strikes you as beautiful and odd all at the same time? The plant I want to introduce you to today is one for me. The first time I came across this beauty, I didn’t think anything of it because it wasn’t blooming. The second time however, the blooms caught my attention, almost as strongly as the accompanying buzzing from all the insects sur-rounding each bloom. Say “hello” to the Common Buttonbush.

     Cephalanthus occidentalis or the Common Buttonbush is a 6-12 ft tall (sometimes taller) shrub that likes to grow on the edges of swamps here in Central Florida. It’s native to North America where it mostly grows in the Southeast but is native as far north as Canada. It prefers to grow in swamps, around ponds and margins of streams, sand, loam, clay, and limestone where it’s moist and has poor drainage. It’s even happy in standing water. You can also find it in prairie swales, around lakes, marsh, creek & swamp margins and occasionally on dry, limestone bluffs. Or, in short Florida habitats. It’s leaves grow in pairs or in threes, and are petiolate with blades up to 8 inches long, ovate to narrower, sometimes 1/3 or less as wide as long, with a pointed tip and rounded to tapered base, smooth margins and glossy upper surface. The lower surface tends to be duller. The glossy, dark-green leaves are among the many Florida leaves that don’t change color for the Fall. The pale pink or white flowers are small and formed in distinctive, dense, spherical clusters (heads) with a fringe of pistils protruded beyond the white corollas. These flowers are long-lasting, blooming from June through September and are followed by rounded masses of nutlets that persist through the winter. The trunks are often twisted and the much-branched shrub (sometimes small tree) is often crooked and leaning with an irregular crown, the balls of white flowers resembling pincushions, and buttonlike balls of fruit that give this plant it’s com-mon name. 

     The Buttonbush has a long history of use as a medicinal herb, in spite of it’s toxicity, though it’s not used often in modern herbalism. The leaves contain glycosides that can be harmful if taken in large doses. They are harmful, even in small doses, to most domestic animals so don’t let your pup chew on these leaves! The bark contains an abundance of cephalanthin, which affects most vertebrates, both cold and warm-blooded, destroys red blood cells, and is an emetic, spasmodic, and eventually produces paralysis. In short, don’t use this herb without supervision! 

Medicinal Uses:

Scientific Name- Cephalanthus occidentalis

Common Names- Common Buttonbush, Buttonbush, Button Willow, Honey Bells, Honeybells, Honey Balls, Honeyballs

 Synonyms- Cephalanthus occidentalis var. californicus, Cephalanthus occidentalis var. pubescens

Family- Rubiaceae (Madder Family)

Edibility- No edible uses are currently known. Leaves are toxic in large doses.

Summary of Actions- Astringent, bitter (inner bark of the root), diaphoretic (root), diuretic (inner bark), emetic, febrifuge, laxative, odontalgic, ophthalmic, tonic (bark)

Energetics & Flavors- Bitter

Parts Used- Fresh and dried bark of stem, branches, and roots. Flowers. Leaves.

Traditional Native American Uses- Some Native American tribes used the leaves and root bark to re-duce and sweat out fevers. The Meskwaki used the inner bark to induce vomiting. The Chippewa used Buttonbush to slow or stop excessive menstrual flow and to reduce pan and cramping associated with excessive or overly long menstrual flow. The Choctaws chewed the bark to relieve toothache. The Seminole also utilized this plant to treat urinary blockage, apparently either stones or swollen prostate.

Digestive Complaints- A syrup can be made from the flowers and leaves to use as a tonic and laxative. Bitter properties can also be used to help aid digestion by stimulating bile production which improves the digestion of fats and helps with the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.

Fevers- A tincture or decoction of the fresh bark can be used for intermittent and remittent fevers. The febrifuge and diaphoretic properties help to reduce fever and induce a sweat to help sweat out fever. Because of this, Buttonbush can also be used as a substitute for quinine in the treatment of Malaria.

Menstrual Complaints- This plant can be used to stop excessive menstrual flow traditionally this was done by boiling 1 cup of stems and leaves for 5 minutes, then taking 3 cups daily during the flow. An-other method is to take a 6-inch piece of root, 1 inch in diameter, chop it, add to boiling water and boil for 30 minutes. 3 cups can be taken over a 24-hour period for menstrual pain and cramping associated with an overly long menstrual flow.

Lungs- The root has traditionally been boiled with honey to make a syrup used for lung problems. Also, the inner bark has been used for coughs.

Kidney & Gall Stones- The inner bark has traditionally been used to help clear kidney gravel and pre-vent the formation of kidney stones. Its bitter properties help to stimulate bile production and prevent gall stones.

Other Benefits- The flowers of this plant are wonderful for attracting pollinators, especially bees. It’s often used as a honey plant for this reason.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Do not use if you have problems with ulcers. The leaves contain glucosides and can be toxic in large doses. Symptoms include vomiting, convulsions, chronic spasms and muscular paralysis. 

 

  

 

    

     Aren't the flowers gorgeous? What do you think of this plant? Are you growing one or do you have one in your yard? Have you come face to face with the bark? Do you have any questions or comments? Share them down below! I only included a basic introduction to this interesting native plant. Follow me on Facebook and Instagram for 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:

Button Bush: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/c/cephalanthus-occidentalis=button-bush.php#:~:text=It%20has%20been%20used%20as,%2C%20kidney%20stones%2C%20pleurisy%20etc.

Buttonbush: Earthnotes Herb Library: https://earthnotes.tripod.com/buttonbush.htm 

Buttonbush: Texas Beyond History: https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/ethnobot/images/buttonbush.html 

Cephalanthus Buttonbush: Henriette’s Herbal Homepage: https://www.henriettes-herb.com/eclectic/kings/cephalanthus.html 

Cephalanthus occidentalis: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=ceoc2 

Cephalanthus occidentalis: Native American Ethnobotany Database: http://naeb.brit.org/uses/search/?string=Cephalanthus+occidentalis 

Cephalanthus occidentalis: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Cephalanthus+occidentalis 

Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush: Practical Plants: https://practicalplants.org/wiki/Cephalanthus_occidentalis#:~:text=A%20strong%20decoction%20has%20been,%2C%20diaphoretic%2C%20diuretic%20and%20tonic. 

Cephalanthus occidentalis Buttonbush Medicinal Plant Uses: Charles W. Kane, Applied Medical Botany: https://medivetus.com/botanic/cephalanthus-occidentalis-buttonbush-medicinal-uses/

Dahoon Holly

 

    

     Welcome to December in Central Florida! We are finally starting to see some cooler weather and a few leaves changing colors. We are also seeing more and more red berries throughout all of our woodlands and wetlands. These red berries, more often than not, belong to any one of our 10-11 species of Holly. 

     The Holly Family, Aquifoliaceae, has a great reputation for being beneficial medicinally, though most species have toxic berries, so they aren’t the most edible of plants. The Ilex genus is the only genus in the family that contains around 400 species. The family name translates to “trees with needles on their leaves” which is pretty darn accurate for most species. However, the genus name is an old word for Oak. The Holly species I wanted to introduce you to today is the Dahoon Holly or Ilex cassine. 

     Like every species of Ilex, Dahoon Holly is dioecious, meaning that male and female flowers are on different trees. These flowers are usually really small and develop in clusters at the leaf axils. Only female plants produce the small berry-like fruits that are actually drupes. These drupes are often mistaken for berries because they contain multiple seeds where traditional drupes only contain one seed, referred to as a stone. I. cassine berries are yellow, orange, or red, the ones I find most often around here are red. This species is native and reaches about 12 meters (about 39 feet) in height. Leaves are alternate and simple, around 3-14 centimeters (1.18-5.51 inches) long and mostly oval. Some leaves have a few small teeth on their otherwise smooth margins. These plants love to have their feet damp so you can often find them in wet hammocks and flatwoods, though they can survive in dryer areas. They are often mistaken for another species of native Holly, the Yaupon Holly, Ilex vomitoria, though Yaupon Holly’s leaves are much smaller and have a much more interesting margin. There is also an invasive species that has become quite common around the area that is a major look-a-like for I. cassine, that is the Brazilian Peppertree, Schinus terebinthifolia. The most notable difference between these two is that S. terebinthifolia has pinnately compound leaves. 

 

Here's a video going over some info about this Holly as well as a close relative in the same genus.

 

Medicinal Uses:

 

Common Names- Dahoon Holly, Christmas Berry, Cassine

 

Scientific Name- Ilex cassine 

 

Edibility- The leaves can be used as a tea.

 

Summary of Actions- Diuretic, emetic, hypnotic, laxative, purgative, stimulant, vermifuge

  

Parts Used- Leaves

 

Traditional Native American Ceremonial Use- Ilex cassine is sacred to the peoples of Florida and the East Coast of North America and is used similarly to Ilex vomitoria to produce a ceremonial cleansing tea referred to as the black drink. This drink is high in caffeine (or theobromine) and causes vomiting, which is considered to be a desirable and cleansing event prior to certain ceremonies. The Apalachicola tribe of Florida prepare large quantities of I. cassine and place it in huge snail shells that are then used as offerings in rituals, where the beverage is also consumed. The shells may be beautifully engraved with mystical images and divine figures. During celebratory rituals, a great deal of tobacco is smoked alongside the drink, producing an intensely euphoric, stimulating effect. Many scholars believe that I. vomitoria was the preferred leaf for making the black drink, however I. cassine was still used. The leaves of I. cassine and I. vomitoria have also been smoked as tobacco substitutes by native tribes and settlers and were also used as tea substitutes by southern rebel troops during the American Civil War.

Tea- Dahoon Holly makes tea but it is the least recommended of all Holly teas. It can cause severe headaches, vomiting, and can be laxative when taken at larger concentrations. However, if the beverage is not brewed too long, one can enjoy the flavor, stimulating effects, and health benefits without going through a ritual purging like with the ceremonial black drink.

Caffeine vs. Theobromine- Many sources say that Dahoon Holly contains a large amount of caffeine. However, recent studies have determined that the alkaloid previously thought of as being caffeine is actually Theobromine. This is a very closely related alkaloid that has most of the same effects as caffeine and is found in cocoa.

Stimulant- Dahoon Holly tea works as a stimulant helping to improve cognitive function for a time.

Blood Pressure- Though stimulating, the leaves can have a calming effect, and they have been known to improve arterial function and blood circulation in some individuals. Theobromine has also shown cardioprotective tendencies in several studies.

 

Fevers and Malaria- Some compounds found in the leaves of Dahoon Holly have been known to be anti-inflammatories. This helps to support the traditional use, in some cultures, for reducing fevers and treating malaria.

  

Joints- Ilex cassine has also been used to help reduce joint pain and inflammation. 

  

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- Although no specific reports of toxicity have been seen for this species, the fruits of at least some members of this genus contain saponins and are slightly toxic. They can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and stupor if eaten in quantity. There is also much caution surrounding the tea as large concentrations can induce vomiting, cause dizziness, and cause headaches. Do not use this herb if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

 

  

 

 

    

I only included a basic introduction to this amazing native holly. 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:

Cassine: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/i/ilex-cassine=cassine.php

Dahoon Holly: Eat The Weeds: http://www.eattheweeds.com/tag/dahoon-holly/

Dahoon Holly, Ilex Cassine: Wild South Florida: http://www.wildsouthflorida.com/dahoon.holly.html

Dahoon Holly (Ilex Cassine): Treasure Trees: https://treescharlotte.org/041-dahoon-holly/

Dahoon Holly…The Dollar Tree of Fruits: Treasure Coast Natives: https://treasurecoastnatives.wordpress.com/2018/10/26/dahoon-holly-starts-young/

Holly Ilex: Herb Wisdom: https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-holly.html

Ilex Cassine: Florida Native Plant Society: https://www.fnps.org/plant/ilex-cassine

Ilex Cassine: Plants For A Future: https://pfaf.org/USER/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Ilex+cassine

Ilex Cassine: Practical Plants: https://practicalplants.org/wiki/Ilex_cassine

Ilex Cassine: Useful Temperate Plants: http://temperate.theferns.info/plant/Ilex+cassine

Ilex Cassine – Cassina Tree: Entheology.com: http://entheology.com/plants/ilex-cassine-cassina-tree/

Ilex Cassine Dahoon Holly: Environmental Horticulture: https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/database/documents/pdf/tree_fact_sheets/ilecasa.pdf

Paraguay Tea: A Modern Herbal: https://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/p/partea05.html

Coreopsis

     Florida is known as a land of flowers, and certainly this time of year you can see the evidence of it. Starting in the spring and going through fall, when you drive up and down the state, you’ll see large patches of color on the side of the roads and in the medians. Right now, the predominant color, at least in Central and North Florida, tends to be yellow. Mostly this can be attributed to the Florida state wildflower, Coreopsis.

     There are 16 species of Coreopsis that occur in the state, and all are recognized as the state flower. There are a few species on this list that are not native to Florida but are considered to be naturalized. Coreopsis tinctoria, C. aurculata, and C. basalis. This list also includes at least one endangered species, C. integrifolia. Ironically, the species of Coreopsis usually used in the promotional material of the state is one that is not native, C. tinctoria. This is also the species I’m focusing on for this post as it has the most documentation of medicinal and edible uses.

     Coreopsis tinctoria is a member of the Aster (Asteraceae) Family. Originally native to the eastern half of the North American continent, it has been naturalized from coast to coast and all across Canada and Alaska. It is equally at home in cottage gardens and along roadsides, where it is often seen in Florida. One of its common names, 'tickseed' is a nod to its Latin designation. The word 'koris' means insect or bug and the suffix 'opsis' is a general designation meaning that the plant resembles the prefix. So core (koris) - opsis means that part of this plant (the seeds) resembles an insect. The Latin word, tinctoria means useful for dye.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Coreopsis, Tickseed, Plains Coreopsis, Golden Tickseed, Goldenwave, Calliopsis, Atkinson's tickseed, Dyer's Coreopsis, Plains Coreopsis, Annual Coreops

Scientific Name- Coreopsis tinctoria, C. cardaminifolia

Edibility- Flowers boiled in water makes a red liquid used as a beverage. Also, a tea made from the dried plant can be used as a coffee substitute.

Summary of Actions- Anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, astringent, emetic

Parts Used- The whole plant is used in slightly different ways

Traditional Native American Uses- A number of Southern Tribes, including Cherokee, used a tea made from the root for diarrhea and as an emetic. The dried tops of the plant were used in a tea to strengthen the blood. The whole plant was also boiled to make a drink for internal pains and bleeding.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Snow Chrysanthemum, or Kun Lun Xue Ju, this North American native has made its way into TCM where it is used in several formulas to help with high blood pressure, insomnia, and inflammation.

Insomnia- The tea can be used to improve one’s ability to sleep and their quality of sleep.

Emetic- This roots of this herb can be used to induce vomiting. Some traditional cultures used emetics to cleanse their bodies before undergoing certain rituals. Coreopsis can also be used in the case of accidental toxin ingestion.

Digestive and Elimination Problems- The roots may be used to brew a tea that is useful in the treatment of diarrhea. The tea may also help in reducing the symptoms of inflamed bowels, especially in the case of chronic enteritis.

Diabetes- In Portugal, the flowering tops of this herb have been used to make a tea that helps to control hypoglycemia.

Circulatory System- The tea made from this plant has been used to help improve the general health of the circulatory system. Specifically, it also helps to reduce blood pressure, reduce cholesterol, and prevent coronary heart disease.

Folk Use- An infusion of the whole plant, minus the root, is traditionally thought to help women who are trying to conceive a female baby.

Attracts Pollinators- Pollinators, especially our native bees, just LOVE this plant. It’s also a host plant for a number of butterflies.

Other/Household Uses- Was used for a source of yellow and red dyes, which was its primary traditional use. The flowers were simply steeped in heated water. Early dyers would add their yarn or fabric to the pot until it absorbed the color. This produced a product that was attractive but wasn't very colorfast. The dye tended to fade over time. Later experiments with different mordants resulted in more vibrant and colorfast items. Today's natural dyers might use any number of products to obtain various colors and shades from the same plant. For those just starting to explore natural dye, alum and vinegar are both easy to obtain and produce interesting results.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- There are no known hazards associated with this plant.

     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!

Resources:

Coreopsis: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/c/coreopsis-tinctoria=coreopsis.php 

Coreopsis tinctoria: Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center: https://www.wildflower.org/plants/result.php?id_plant=coti3#:~:text=Use%20Medicinal%3A%20Amerindians%20used%20root,of%20yellow%20and%20red%20dyes. 

Coreopsis tinctoria: Practical Plants: https://practicalplants.org/wiki/Coreopsis_tinctoria 

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

Coreopsis: Wiki Medicinal Plants: http://wiki.medicinalplants-uses.com/index.php?title=Coreopsis 

Coreopsis tinctoria- Dyer’s Coreopsis: Alchemy Works: https://www.alchemy-works.com/coreopsis_tinctoria.html 

Coreopsis tinctoria- History, Folklore, and Uses: Dave’s Garden: https://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/coreopsis-tinctoria-history-folklore-and-uses 

Coreopsis tinctoria Nutt.: Plants for a Future: https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Coreopsis+tinctoria 

Everything You Need To Know About The Coreopsis Plant: NIMVO: https://nimvo.com/coreopsis-plant/ 

The Flower Tea Coreopsis tinctoria Increases Insulin Sensitivity and Regulates Hepatic Metabolism in Rats Fed a High-Fat Diet: Oxford Academic: https://academic.oup.com/endo/article/156/6/2006/2422826 

What Is Snow Chrysanthemum: Transcendent Teas: https://transcendentteas.weebly.com/what-is-snow-chrysanthemum.html 

Pokeweed

     Having been raised in North Florida, by a family who has been in the South for many a generation (most of us are in Georgia, Virginia, and the Carolinas), I was raised with a few Appalachian traditions. One of these traditions was “Poke Salat.” Now, my parents didn’t prepare this traditional dish, but I did hear about it quite often and some other family members did prepare it occasionally. Though it sounds like a springtime salad, it’s actually a pot of cooked greens. I promise you that if anyone ever serves you a salad and calls it Poke Salat, you should run away as fast as you can. This is because Pokeweed is highly toxic and it has to be cooked several times over in order to be edible.

     Pokeweed (Phytolacca americana) is a poisonous, herbaceous plant that has long been used for food and folk medicine in parts of eastern North America, the Midwest and the Gulf Coast where it is native. Poke is a member of the Phytolaccaceae (Pokeweed) family and is a perennial herb. It grows up to 11ft tall, though the variety commonly found in the South tends to stop at 8ft. Single alternate leaves are pointed at the end with crinkled edges and an unpleasant smell. The stems are green, pink, or red. Flowers greenish-white in long clusters at ends of stems that will develop into dark purple berries resembling blueberries or elderberries. Pokeroot is best dug up in the fall after the plant has died back for the winter. This is when the plant is the most medicinal and the least toxic. The next best time to dig the roots is in the early spring when the leaves are just coming out (as long as you're sure what you're picking!). The leaves and berries are harvested from Autumn to the following Spring and can be found in North & South America, East Asia & New Zealand. Though it has become naturalized all over Europe. It’s often found on edges of fields or cleared lands and roadsides. Pokeweed poisonings were common in eastern North America during the 19th century. The roots were often mistaken for parsnip, Jerusalem artichoke, or horseradish. The berries are often mistaken for elderberries. Use caution! And remember, if you’re not 100% sure of your identification, DON’T consume/use the plant!

     Poke is predominately toxic to mammals, though some small mammals have a resistance to the toxin. The berries are an important food source for birds and can be eaten by them because the small seeds hard outer shell simply passes through the birds' digestive system. It’s also a valuable host plant for a number of butterfly species found here in Florida.

     

I recently filmed a video about this beautiful plant.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Poke, Pokeweed, Poke Salet, American Pokeweed, Cancer-root, Cancer Jalap, Inkberry, Pigeon Berry, Pocan, Poke, Poke Root, Pokeberry, Reujin D Ours, Sekerciboyaci, Skoke, Virginian Poke, Yoshu-Yama-Gobo, Yyamilin 

Scientific Name-  Phytolacca americana and P. acinosa 

Edibility- Pokeweed is edible when cooked properly. The young shoots and leaves are boiled in two changes of water. The leaves taste similar to spinach and the shoots taste similar to asparagus. Properly cooked Poke is known as "Poke Salet," not Poke Salad as it is commonly called. Poke berries are cooked and the resulting liquid used to color canned fruits and vegetables. Caution is advised as the whole plant is poisonous raw, causing vomiting and diarrhea.

Summary of Actions- Alterative, anodyne, antifungal, anti-inflammatory, antiparasitic, antiseptic, antitumor, antitussive, antiviral, cathartic, detoxifying, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, hypnotic, lymphagogue, narcotic, purgative, and resolvent. 

Energetics- Acrid, slightly sweet, root slightly bitter. The root is slightly cooling and drying. The berries are slightly warming.

Parts Used- Leaves, Berry, and Root 

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)- Known as Shang Lu, Poke affects the liver, spleen, bladder, and small intestine meridians. It clears toxins, reducing the swelling associated with goiters, arthritis, neuralgias, breast lumps and tumors, eczema, skin dermatitis, ulcers, and similar wounds. Shang Lu removes statis, especially when associated with abdominal distension, nausea, heavy feelings, moodiness, and constipation. It also clears up Liver Qi stagnation, which is commonly associated with breast lumps, tumors, acute mastitis, as well as chronic benign and malignant lumps. Like in Western Herbalism, Shang Lu is considered to be drastically purgative. 

Traditional Native American Uses- Some Native American tribes used Pokeweed as a purgative (to stimulate bowel clearance) and an emetic (to promote vomiting). Many traditional cultures believe that doing so "cleanses" the body, expels bad spirits. The fruit was made into a red dye used in painting horses and various articles of adornment. The Delaware Indians were likely the first to prescribe pokeweed in medicine, using it as a cardiac stimulant. Indians of the Rocky Mountain region used pokeweed to treat epilepsy, anxiety, and neurological disorders. The Pah-Utes fermented berries in water to make a narcotic tea. The Cherokee used poke in a number of different ways. The leaves were often combined with Lemon Balm and made into a tea to reduce phlegm and calm the chest when there was a cold our cough. The root was used as a blood purifier and antibiotic. It was considered especially potent in treating kidney infections. It was also used to increase metabolism.

Antibiotic- Most herbalists turn to Goldenseal for its use as an antibiotic. However, it’s an endangered species. Pokeweed is also a great antibiotic with many of the same properties, but as a bonus, it’s not endangered. It’s often considered a problematic weed in the South. 

Lyme Disease- I know of several herbalists who have successfully used a tincture made from the root to treat Lyme disease.

Rheumatism & Fibromyalgia- Some modern experts believe that rheumatism was used as a blanket term for several issues in older medical texts. One of these issues is believed to be fibromyalgia. Most older medical texts that include the use of Poke have described it as being fairly effective in the treatment of rheumatism. The berries were consumed whole or a tea made from the leaves was drunk for this purpose. Sometimes Prickly Ash was added to the tea for rheumatism.

Endocrine Regulator- Poke helps to regulate your hormones. It has the most profound effect on the pituitary, thyroid, adrenals, and sex glands. This makes it a prime herb to use in cases of sterility, impotence, low sperm count, and prostate issues.

Skin Conditions- Pokeweed has frequently been used in folk medicine to treat skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and scrofula (tuberculosis of the neck). However, caution should be used with this plant as the sap can cause irritation, swelling, and an itchy rash in people with sensitive skin. Despite that, it is believed to have amazing anti-inflammatory effects that may help relieve localized pain and swelling.

Detoxifying- It is one of the strongest herbs known to promote cleansing and clear toxemia that also acts on the glands. Because of this, it has a long history of use for detoxifying the blood and body.

Thyroid- Poke is an old-time Appalachian remedy for hypothyroidism, especially goiter.

Auto-immune Disease- The root is taken internally in the treatment of auto-immune diseases (especially rheumatoid arthritis), tonsillitis, mumps, glandular fever and other complaints involving swollen glands, chronic catarrh, bronchitis etc. 

Dye, Ink, & Food Coloring- A rich brown dye can be made by soaking fabric in fermenting berries in hollowed out pumpkin. Using the fermented berries, without the pumpkin, yields a pink-ish red dye. It was often used as red ink or dye in the civil war era. Many letters written home during the civil war were written in pokeberry ink, which now appears as brown ink. Pokeberry has also been used as a red food coloring and as a wine coloring agent. 

Toxicity and Dosage- It is a strong herb so dosages must be monitored and respected. (Even just one to two drops of tincture is enough and not more than ten drops is recommended.) Because it is so strong it is usually used in combination with other herbs that can help soften its approach without lessening its properties. In Appalachian folk medicine, the berries are swallowed as a treatment for arthritis and for immune stimulation. Only swallow one berry (either fresh or dried) at a time. One berry is the equivalent of one drop of root tincture. At doses of 1 g, dried poke root is emetic and purgative. At lower doses of 60 to 100 mg/day, the root and berries have been used to treat rheumatism and for immune stimulation; however, there are no clinical trials that support these uses or doses. 

Side Effects- Individuals show widely varying tolerance for poke. Some people can't handle more than three or five drops per day, while others can take 25 or 50 drops with no adverse effects. The side effects of poke include mental unclarity, spaciness, and out-of-body feelings. If you notice such feelings, it means you've found your tolerance level, so back off to a lower dosage. If you take way too much (such as mistaking dropperful for drops, which some people have done!), you may encounter more severe side effects, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- All parts of the plant are toxic with roots being the most toxic, stems and leaves are less so and the least toxic is the fruit. The raw berry is toxic. If cooked improperly the juice from the leaves can cause severe stomach cramping, diarrhea, vomiting, convulsions, death. The plant sap can cause dermatitis in sensitive people. The plant contains substances that cause cell division and can damage chromosomes. These substances can be absorbed through any abrasions in the skin, potentially causing serious blood aberrations, and so it is strongly recommended that the people wear gloves when handling the plant. Do not use this plat during pregnancy! Ingestion of poisonous parts of the plant may cause severe stomach cramping, nausea with persistent diarrhea and vomiting, slow and difficult breathing, weakness, spasms, hypotension, severe convulsions, and death. 

     I only included a basic introduction to this wonderful Appalachian herb. 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:

Books:

The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to New World Medicinal Plants by Matthew Wood 

Florida’s Edible Wild Plants by Peggy Sias Lantz

Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth by Dr. Sharol Marie Tilgner

The Cherokee Herbal by J.T. Garrett

Websites: 

Foods Indigenous to the Western Hemisphere: American Indian Health and Diet Project: http://www.aihd.ku.edu/foods/pokeweed.html#:~:text=Uses,to%20humans%20and%20some%20animals. 

The Health Benefits of Pokeweed: Very Well Health: https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-pokeweed-provide-health-benefits-4587368 

Poke: Southeast Wise Women: https://www.sewisewomen.com/poke 

Poke (Shang Lu): White Rabbit Institute of Healing: https://www.whiterabbitinstituteofhealing.com/herbs/poke/ 

Pokeweed: Drugs.com: https://www.drugs.com/npp/pokeweed.html 

Pokeweed: Natural Medicinal Herbs: http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/p/phytolacca-americana=pokeweed.php 

Pokeweed, An Herb For All Things Pokey: The Herbwife’s Kitchen: http://crabappleherbs.com/blog/2007/07/31/pokeweed-an-herb-for-all-things-pokey/comment-page-2/ 

Pokeweed Herb: Alternative Nature Online Herbal: https://altnature.com/gallery/pokeweed.htm 

Spiderwort

     I remember picking wildflowers as a little girl in North Florida. My favorite ones were always the purple flowers. Flowers like Spiderwort. Tradescantia virginiana is a three petaled, clump forming species in the Tradescantia family. This family includes a large number of plants that are used as ornamentals. The virginiana, however, is commonly considered a weed, and somewhat invasive, here in Central Florida. However, this tall, grass-like plant has a few fans that can't help but keep it in their gardens as a point of interest.

     This plant is high in mucilage, a slimy substance that provides a host of medicinal benefits. However it may have been the origin of a few different common names given to this plant. If you break a tip off of a leaf, or break the stem, then take some of the sap on your finger, when touched by another finger and slowly pulled away it will form a long slender string. This string resembles a spider’s silk. This is one origin of the common name Spiderwort or even the common name of Cow Slobber. However, the most commonly given origin for the name Spiderwort comes from it's traditional use for spider bites.

     Tradescantia virginiana is a traditional edible plant that can be prepared in a number of ways. However it's just one species in the Tradescantia family, and not every species is edible. But Spiderwort can be an excellent addition to your family's wild food list. The stems and young shoots can be steamed like asparagus, the leaves and flowers make a great addition to a salad, or dessert. The flowers were also used as a traditional decoration for cakes and other baked goods.
 
     There is one really amazing trait that these flowers posses. They are natural radiation detectors. The stamens of the flowers have fine hairs on them, that are typically a blueish purple. However, when exposed to levels of radiation that are dangerous, those fine hairs turn pink. If the dangerous pollutants get to be really dangerous, the whole flower will turn pink. So just like Marvel's Spiderman, who was bitten by a radioactive spider, the Amazing Spiderwort can be your hero and save you from danger.

Medicinal Uses:

Common Names- Spiderwort, Spiderlily, Widow's Tears, Cow Slobber, Virginia Spiderwort

Summary of actions-  Analgesic, Anthelmintic, Antidiarrheal, Anti-inflammatory, Antispasmodic, Antiperiodic, Astringent, Demulcent, Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Emetic, Emmenagogue, Emollient, Expectorant, Galactagogue, Laxative, Sedative, Stomachic, Tonic, Vermifuge, and Vulnerary.

Edible- The young shoots and leaves are edible both raw and cooked. The flowers wilt under heat, so those are only edible raw. The stems are also edible cooked.

Traditional Native American Uses- The Dakota Indians used to carry spiderwort as a love talisman. The Cherokee used the root as a Cancer remedy, and a tea made from the leaves as a laxative. The Meskwaki used the root as a diuretic. Some tribes also used the gum, which comes from the root, as a remedy for craziness, by making an incision in the head and inserting the gum in that incision.

Wound Care and Insect Bites- The leaves, stem, and flowers can be used to help speed the healing of external wounds. The plant actually gets it's common name from the traditional use for spider bites. It can be used as a poultice to reduce inflammation and itch caused by insect bites.

Kidneys, Colon, and Stomach- A decoction made from the root is used as a laxative, to help improve kidney function, and to soothe stomach aches. The leaves and stems are used to help bulk up stool. The entire plant also contains mucilage, which helps reduce inflammation throughout the entire gastrointestinal track and helps to soothe ulcers.

Female Health Concerns- The root and leaves can be made into a decoction or tea to help reduce menstrual pain.   The tea from the leaves is also supposed to help increase milk production in women who are breastfeeding.

Cancers- A number of the Native American Tribes have used this plant for various cancers in their traditional medicine. It's currently being studied for these purposes, though no conclusive evidence has been determined.

Laxative-  A tea made from the root can be used as a laxative.

Radiation Detection- The blue hairs on the stamens of the flowers turn pink under the influence of harmful gamma radiation, and under the influence of extreme pollutants, the whole flower will turn pink.

Cautions, Contraindications, and Warnings- This plant may cause skin irritation in some individuals who are sensitive to the clusters of needle-like crystals, called raphides, contained in it's internal tissues.


     I hope you have a new appreciation for this common plant.  If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below.

References:

Plant of the Week- Spiderwort: University of Arkansas: https://www.uaex.edu/yard-garden/resource-library/plant-week/spiderwort-06-23-06.aspx

Mucilage: The Naturopathic Herbalist: https://thenaturopathicherbalist.com/plant-constituents/mucilage/

Spiderwort as an Ornamental: Dengarden: https://dengarden.com/gardening/Using-Common-Spiderwort-As-An-Ornamental-Garden-Plant

Spiderwort Flowers: Gardening Know How: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/spiderwort/growing-spiderworts.htm

Spiderwort, Pocahontas, and Gamma Rays: Eat The Weeds: http://www.eattheweeds.com/spiderwort-pocahontas-and-gamma-rays/

Spiderwort- Tradescantia virginiana: Edible Wild Food: http://www.ediblewildfood.com/spiderwort.aspx

Spiderwort- Tradescantia virginiana: Herb Rowe: https://herberowe.wordpress.com/2011/04/08/virginia-spiderwort-%E2%80%93-tradescantia-virginiana/

Tradescantia: Southern Living: https://www.southernliving.com/plants/tradescantia

Tradescantia virginiana: Fine Me A Cure: https://findmeacure.com/2011/11/04/tradescantia-virginiana/

Tradescantia virginiana: Practical Plants: https://practicalplants.org/wiki/Tradescantia_virginiana

What is Tradescantia?: WiseGeek: https://www.wisegeek.com/what-is-tradescantia.htm

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