Standing in your happiness

Passion Flower

PASSION FLOWER – Passiflora incarnata

Family - Passifloraceae

Other Names: Passion Vine, Maypops, Granadilla

History

The Passion flowers are so named because they resemble the fine cut corona in the centre of the blossoms of the Crown of Thorns.

Native Americans used the fruit pulp to treat swelling and sore eyes and the root they used as a general tonic.

Parts Used

The dried herb is collected after some of the berries have matured.

Cultivation

There are 500 species of passion flower known to man and the medicinal properties can be suggested for many of the species.

A perennial root native to US, Central and South America produces herbaceous shoots with three lobed, finely serrated leaves and flesh coloured or yellowish sweet smelling flowers, tinged with purple. It produces a small many seeded berry the size of a small apple.

The leaves are collected after flowering and dried in the shade.

It is propagated from seed and likes plenty of sun.

Constituents

Alkaloids harmine (indole alkaloid), Harman, harmol and  passiflorine. Passiflorine has similar properties to morphine.

Flavone glycosides (apigenin) and sterols. Maltol, cyanogenic glycosides

Actions

• Sedative
• Hypnotic
• Anti-spasmodic
• Anodyne
• Relaxant
• Hypotensive
• Tranqulizing

Indications:

Passiflora is great for sleepless nights, anxiety and insomnia. It is for this reason that it is commonly used.  It aids the transition into sleep.

How it does this is by increasing the GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) in your brain which then lessens brain activity and helps us to relax. A study showed those who drank it daily for 7 days noticed an improvement in their sleep.

It can be used for any condition where there is cramping and spasms, being effective in cases such as asthma. Epilepsy and irritable bowel conditions will benefit from passion flower.

Occasionally it has been prescribed for convulsions, as well as other issues such as boils, wounds, earaches and liver problems.

It is indicated for nervous conditions and for where there are viral infections of the nerves such as in shingles.

The leaves are non-addictive, non-depressant, sedative especially in cases of anxiety.

It has valuable painkilling properties and can be used for headaches, period pain and toothaches.

Passion Flower will prevent tachycardia and help to reduce high blood pressure.

It is indicated for diarrhoea, dysentery, neuralgia, sleeplessness and dysmenorrhoea.

A compress will help to soothe burns and skin irritations.

Dosage:

0 to 20 minims of fluid extract

Tincture 1 to 4 ml three times a day. Larger doses can be taken in the evening to help sleeping.

1 teaspoon in an infusion can also be drunk at night to help sleep.

If you would like to buy any passion flower, I sell it is 100g, 250g and 500g bags. 

Here is the link passion-flower-passiflora-incarnata

Until next time, 

seeing you all in happiness and health, 

Louise Plant 

Plantago major – Plantain

Common Name - Plantain

There are a few types of plantains that we know, psyllium seeds are related to this plant as well as ribwort. This information is about plantain of which one of its best uses is the fresh leaves are used to reduced and extract the poison from bites, I have seen it used on white tail spider bites. 

Botanical Name – Plantago major

Family – Plantaginaceae

Other names – Broad leaf plantain, Cuckoo’s bread, Englishman’s foot, Ripple grass

Parts Used - Leaves or ariel parts are gathered during flowering in summer. The leaves are best dried as fast as possible to prevent discolouration. The seeds are a great demulcent taken crushed or whole.

History - Plantain was used in the British highlands and it was called Slan-lus or plant of healing. Pliny used it for curing the madness of dogs. Its spread on a global scale followed colonisation in both America and New Zealand and it was called Englishman’s foot as wherever the English had taken possession of the land, plantain seemed to crop up. Saxon ancestors esteemed it highly as one of their 9 sacred herbs and they used it as a salve for flying venom. In Ireland it was used to treat wounds and bruises.

Description - This small plant has shallow yellowish roots with a large rosette of leaves above ground. The leaves are ovate, blunt and about 4 inches long with a channelled petiole. Each leaf has 5 to 11 ribs. The flower spikes are erect on long stalks producing purplish/green flowers which develop to form fruits that produce 4 to 16 seeds in each capsule.

Cultivation - This herb easily sets seed and will spread as long as there is water available.

Active Constituents - Glycosides including aucubin. Mucilage, chlorogenic acid and ursolic acid and silicic acid. Iridoids, tannins and flavonoids.

Actions

·         Expectorant

·         Demulcent

·         Astringent

·         Diuretic

·         Antihemorrhagic

·         Refrigerant

·         Deobstruent

·         Anticatarrhal

Indications - This herb is a powerful soother and healer. It is a gentle expectorant whilst also soothing inflamed and sore membranes, making it ideal for coughs and mild bronchitis. Its astringent action makes it useful in diarrhoea, haemorrhoids and cystitis. It is commonly used for gastritis, peptic ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome, respiratory catarrh, loss of voice and urinary tract bleeding.

It is indicated for skin inflammation, malignant ulcers, and intermittent fevers and externally to stimulate healing of sores. It may be used as a substitute for comfrey for bruising and broken bones. It can be applied to bleeding surfaces externally and it historically was used for bleeding of the lungs, stomach and for consumption and dysentery.

The fresh plant is valuable for bites and stings, especially for white tail spider bites.

You can make a lotion using plantain, calendula and coconut oil which is great for any skin irritations and can include mozzie bites, eczema, psoriasis, chicken pox, rashes and sores. 

The seeds can be used as a substitute for psyllium.

 Dosage - 2 – 4ml (1:1) three times daily

2-3ml of 1:3 three times daily    2-6g of dried herb as an infusion

Delightful Dandelion

 I have had discussion of late about the wonders of the herb Dandelion.

So I have decided to share some information about dandelion from my Herbal Materia Medica Lecture Notes

http://chi-institute.com.au/component/k2/item/41-course-4-herbal-materia-medica-1

Here is the link if you would like to learn more.

The leaves and root of dandelion are used, leaves picked during flowering and root dug up only during autumn. Dandelion greens, gathered in the spring when young and tender, are delicious raw in salads or pot-boiled or steamed like spinach. They are very nutritious, being high in vitamins C, D and A, and in potassium, calcium and iron.

Dandelion is commonly used as a food. The leaves are used in salads and teas, while the roots are often used as a coffee substitute.

Dandelion leaves and roots have been used for hundreds of years to treat liver, gallbladder, kidney, and joint problems. In some countries, dandelion is considered a blood purifier and is used for ailments such as eczema and cancer. Dandelion has also been used historically to treat poor digestion, water retention, and diseases of the liver, including hepatitis. Common dandelion originated in Europe, and moved as the first European settlers did.

The common name Piss-in-bed, which comes from the French word ‘pissenlit’, indicates the herb’s habit of giving the kidneys the urge to expel urine. Women who find they puff up at the time of menstruation, may get considerable relief from bloating and breast tenderness, by drinking dandelion leaf tea, as soon as they feel these symptoms.

Dandelion has two particularly important uses: to promote the formation of bile and to remove excess water from the body. Extracts of the milky juice make a powerful diuretic that reduces high blood pressure. Dandelion leaf is high in vitamins and minerals, and is a safe, gentle, effective diuretic. It is also nutritive and restorative to the liver (especially the root) and a mild blood cleanser.

Dandelion leaves are widely recommended as a food supplement for pregnant women because of the many nutrients they contain. It therefore has beneficial effect on the female organs. It increases the activity of the liver, pancreas, and spleen, especially in enlargement of the liver and the spleen.

The root affects all forms of secretion and excretion from the body. It acts as a tonic and stimulant by removing toxins and poisons from the body. An infusion of the fresh root is reportedly good for gallstones, jaundice, and other liver problems.

It increases the flow of urine in patients with liver problems. It is slightly laxative. It is a remedy for jaundice and skin diseases, scurvy, scrofula, and eczema. Dandelion leaf is useful in all kinds of kidney troubles, diabetes, dropsy, inflammation of the bowels, indigestion, flatulence (relieves gas), appetite stimulant, laxative, skin problems, psoriasis, eczema, arthritis, PMS bloating and fever.

It is a multi-talented and functional herb.

If you want to buy dandelion leaf, you can purchase in bags as small as 100g

http://www.driedherbsonline.com/individual-medicinal-herbs/dandelion-leaf-taraxacum-officinale/

if it is dandelion root you are after here it is

http://www.driedherbsonline.com/individual-medicinal-herbs/dandelion-root-taraxacum-officinale/

As a mild diuretic or appetite stimulant, 4-10 grams of dried leaves can be added to 250 ml (I cup) of boiling water and drunk as a decoction. A decoction is a simmered tea.

For chronic rheumatism, gout, stiff joints follow an 8-week dandelion cure as follows:

Infusion: Steep 2 tsp. Plant or root in 1-cup boiling water. Take 1/2 to 1 cup a day, lukewarm or cold.

Decoction: Use 4 oz. Fresh plant with 2 pints of water; boil down gently to 1 pint and strain. Take 3 tbsp. Six times daily.

Cold extract: Use 2 tsp. Plant with 1 cup water; let stand for 8-hours.

Juice: For a springtime tonic, take 1 tsp. Juice pressed from the leaves in milk, one to three times a day. Use an electric vegetable juicer to extract the milk.

We all love dandelion, great for young and old.

This article is one of my many blogs

http://louiseplant.com.au/blog/delightful-dandelion/

Have a fabulous Long Weekend, 

Louise 

Growing Herbs Indoors

Certain herbs can be quite easily grown inside, though they may require more attention than those grown outside. If you are a keen cook who likes to use fresh herbs, then it may be well worth the effort. Herbs in the house can be decorative; some herbs are repellent to pests and bugs, some have a wonderful aroma and of course not to forget the ability of plants in the house to help lift the spirits.

In general herbs in the house can be treated like any houseplants, though some herbs such as basil 

will require more precise watering. Basil is prone to wilt if it becomes too dry and it can rot if it becomes too wet, it does like the kitchen though and is quite happy as long as it has enough water and not too much.

If you are choosing to grow your herbs indoors then it is essential to choose the correct place to grow them. Window sills are a good place to start as they will be warm, sheltered and still have enough light to grow.

The kitchen is often not the best place for herbs as the temperature within that room will be prone to fluctuating. Fumes from gas stoves, fridges and other appliances may also have a detrimental effect on the herbs. Herbs like a temperature above 15 ͒֯֯֯C, with no draughts and as much sunlight as possible.

           

Bathrooms are often good growing rooms, as are conservatories. It is essential the growing area be well ventilated with fresh air, but no draughts. From time to time the herbs do enjoy an outdoor airing. I tend to place my indoor pots outside when it rains to give then some rain water, as well as some fresh air. They certainly enjoy it.

The space needed will be dependant on the volumes of herbs being planted. The aim is get a good balance between heat and light. Too much of either will produce sickly seedlings. Not enough light will produce leggy seedling with small leaf growth and long stems. Too much heat will cause drying out and once again sickly seedlings will result. It may be necessary to weigh conditions up and wait for when the time is right.

Herbs to consider for growing inside the house are:

Basil                           Bay                             Chervil                       Chives        Coriander                Dill                            Fennel                        Hyssop                        Marjoram               Mint                           Parsley                      Rosemary

Sage                            French                        Tarragon         Thyme 

Introducing Solids to Your Baby

How do I give my Baby Solids?

There is no need for children and babies to eat junk foods, fast foods and processed foods.

Most of our eating patterns are laid down during breastfeeding. If the mother is relaxed and is eating a wholesome diet then the baby benefits from this. It will only consume nourishing and wholesome milk.

It is a belief that is the infant is firstly weaned onto sweet, oily and slaty food then the child will always crave sweet, oily and salty food. The first foods lay down the foundations for the rest of the child’s and adult’s life.

Food for Babies

It is very important that the newborn infant is given the correct types of food as their first food. A baby’s digestive system is still not quite fully developed and certain foods such as wheat and unpasteurised milk can bombard the digestive system and cause permanent damage. This can lead to problems such as irritable bowel disorders later in life.

For the first 6 months the best diet is mother’s breast milk only. Between 6 to 9 months some solid foods can be introduced. Aim to give the infant pureed vegetables. There is no need to add salt, butter or sweeteners. Start with the evening feed, to help sustain them through the night. As the food starts being increased, start to decrease the milk production. By the time the child is 12 months then the milk consumption is decreased by 50%. Aim to keep the child on simple foods, mashed bananas, mashed sweet potatoes, mashed pumpkin are good suggestions. No wheat and unpasteurised dairy products are to be given prior to 12 months.

Between 12 months to 18 months, start to decrease milk production by another 25%. Once the first molars appear then this is an indication that the pancreatic enzymes are being manufactured more efficiently. Here a combination of steamed and mashed vegetables can be used.  

Mashed vegetables, fish, mashed baked beans or mashed fruits can be given. It is still recommended to hold off on the wheat products.

From this point the child may wean themselves off the milk themselves.

At 18 months the best types of foods to eat are those that are low in complex carbohydrates.

These food include:

Sprouts or legumes, grains and seeds

The milk made from soaked and sprouted seeds and nuts

Vegetable juices particularly carrot juice and other low starch vegetables

Small amounts of sea vegetables

Tofu or tempeh

Fruits and avocados

Small amounts of fruit juices, ideally fresh

Under 18 months food is to be cooked, mashed or pureed with small amounts of water added. The overuse of fruits at this time will weaken digestion. This is specific for citrus fruits, raw fruits and large amounts of veg juices.

When introducing non sprouted cereals, legumes and starchy vegetables, introduce them slowly looking for signs of gastric distress. If there is any resume the diet and re-introduce later. When introducing these grains and legumes make sure they are pre-soaked before cooking to eliminate the phytic acid which depletes minerals in infants.

In regards to meat, it has been shown that meat contains more pesticides and herbicide residues than other foods. In fact vegetables and fruits have 1/10^th the pesticides of mammal meats, fish and fowl. It is important to feed children the cleanest food, and as much as possible. Meats can produce uric acid and they are acid forming, this can be a problem for some children. Ideally whole fresh foods from the plant kingdom are the preferable foods to give infants and children. Meat such as fish and chicken can be used as a useful tonic for deficiency conditions.  (weak, frail, withdrawn, pale complexion).

Foods to Use with Caution

Flours – especially wheat flours as these promote mucus and allergies. Children over 2 yrs will be able to tolerate them easier.

Raw onions and garlic – these can be too stimulating for young children, though they make great medicines for colds. To give it to children for worming, slice thinly and place between thin slices of apple. When the mother eats garlic it will come through the milk.

Salt – do not use it for children 10 months and under. Excess salt is hard on the kidneys.

Refined and rancid foods – these include margarine and hydrogenated oils. These can lead to incomplete development of the nervous system, emotional instability and degenerative diseases.

Excess raw foods – these can be eaten later in life, though for infants it can weaken them and deplete digestive strength. When the child is in a state of excess (loud voice, yelling) or in a state of heat (red face and wants cold fluids), salads and fruits are better foods to eat.

Refined sweeteners – of any description for the young and old.

Chocolate – contains stimulant substances theobromine and oxalic acid which inhibits calcium absorption.

Raw honey – it can contain botulin. Avoid for children that are 18 months or less.

Fruit – fruit is sweet and too much can encourage weakness, runny noses and ear problems. Always dilute fruit juices, as they can easily cause tooth decay.

Buckwheat – it is very drying and stimulating for children and can cause nervousness and irritability if consumed in large amounts.

Sautéed or fried foods – these are too concentrated

Spices – limit or reduce as they can be very stimulating.

There is no need to spice up infants food.

Herbs for Baby

There are many herbs which you can give to your baby, though there are many such as cayenne and garlic which could be too strong.

It is best to use gentle herbs. Herb that can be considered are:

Chamomile—this must be on the top of my list. It is the best thing for colicky babies, whether given homeopathically as chamomilla 30c or whether given as a weak tea. When making herb teas for infants, ensure you dilute them down. I would recommend giving them a tsp at a time in a weak tea form. As the baby gets to 6 months, then larger doses can be given, though still diluting the tea.

Other herbs that could be given for colic in a weak tea form are dill seed, aniseed and meadowsweet.

Herbs that can be used for skin conditions are diluted lavender, aloe juice, burdock or honey. Even though honey is best not given internally it can be used externally for sores and wounds. It is worth noting that if the baby is starting to have skin rashes or eczema then the mothers diet will need to be addressed.

Lavender oil diluted in a carrier oil can also be used for insect bites and to help baby sleep.

Essential oils are very effective for babies, again use gentle oils. The oils can be placed on their clothing to help sleep and colic, or when bathing the baby add 1/2 cup of milk and in the milk add 1 to 2 drops of oil. The milk can then be added to the bath without the concern of the essential oil damaging the tender babies skin.

Other herbs that I found valuable was the use of infused comfrey and calendula oils. These are excellent when made into an ointment for nappy rash. I found my babies only had nappy rash when teething. If there is nappy rash then diet or the types of nappies that you are using will need to be considered. A good airing every now and then is good.

So herbs can be used for young and old. Start with small dilute doses and always dilute the herbs and oils down. The baby will show quick changes.

Louise Plant

Moon Planting

MOON PLANTING IN WINTER

Have you ever planted cuttings and they haven’t taken?

Why is this?

Have you ever planted cuttings and they have taken?

What was the difference between the plantings? Time and the moon phases could be the answer. To follow moon planting we need to understand the moon phases.

Planting by the moon has been used by many tribal cultures such as the Aztecs. These tribes understood the earths ebb’s and tides and how these related to the moon. Fishing was often part of their heritage and they often knew that more fish could be caught at high tide and not so much at low tide.

The earth breaths out from 3.00pm to 3.00am and it breathes in from 3.00am to 3.00pm. This you can easily see as in the morning dew that appears in the morning, it is this time that the earth is breathing or letting out. By the afternoon the earth will naturally dry out and absorb the moisture in, hence the damp goes from the plant into the earth.

Without going into too much detail here are the major moon phases, given as a guide for Winter Growing.

Phase 1 – New Moon – 1^st Quarter

A good time to plant here is as the new moon rises in the early evening. This is a fast growing time and as it is cold at this time I recommend growing leafy annual crops such as lettuce, certain cereal crops depending on what you want to harvest from them, calendulas, radishes, coriander, chickweed and Californian poppy.

Phase 2 – Before Full Moon - 2^nd Quarter

This is a very good time to be growing and is still in a fast growing time bearing in mind top growth is slowing so plant early. Examples are broad beans, onions and peas.

Phase 3 – After Full Moon – 3^rd Quarter

This is the best time for root crops such as potatoes, carrots, beetroot etc. Most plants work now is happening under the soil. Root systems grow now.  

Phase 4 – Dark Moon – 4^th Quarter

A dormant time of little or no growth. Not a good time for planting, though it is a good time for weeding and maintenance.

Other Tips 

It is not recommended to plant directly on a full moon.

It is known that the sap of a plant will rise before a full moon and it will fall after a full moon. During the full moon the sap is neither rising nor falling and the plant is in a phase of transition, you could say it is changing. It is a little like having its own sleeping time.

I hope this guide has given you a bit more information about moon planting. 

Happy herbing catch you next time

For more courses about herbs and herb growing check out my courses here 

http://www.chi-institute.com.au/online-courses/herbal-medicines

Seeing you in Health and Happiness 

Louise Plant