Altheae officinalis
Family: Malvaceae
Other names: White mallow, Fr. Guimauve
Parts used: Leaf, flowers, root
Characteristics: Cool, moist, sweet
Systems affected: Lungs, stomach
Actions: Demulcent, alterative, diuretic, vulnerary, mild laxative, emollient, expectorant, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory
This tall perennial has been used for centuries all over the world as a vegetable, but is also one of the most treasured healing herbs available. The treats we buy today with the same name no longer contain any trace of the plant, but in the early 1800s in France, there was a confection called Paté de Guimauve, which was a spongy square made from the plant’s gooey root sap along with whipped egg whites and sugar that eventually evolved into our modern campfire treat.
The erect stems can be up to 1.5 metres tall, with alternate, irregular-toothed leaves that are soft and velvety on both sides. The round flowers are pale pink or white with a darker pink centre and 5 petals each. The roots are white and mucilaginous, tasting somewhat like parsnip. It typically thrives in damp places, such as marshes—as its name suggests—but is now almost exclusively grown in the dry soil of cultivated gardens. Plants should be at least 2 years old before using as medicine. Flowers are best used just as they are coming into bloom in mid- to late summer. Leaves should be picked on a dry day and the root should be harvested in the fall.
MEDICINAL USES:
Soothes mucous membranes of digestive, urinary, and respiratory tracts; reduces skin inflammation
cold decoction: Soak 2 tbsp. Marshmallow root (fresh or dried) in cold water for half an hour, then peel and cut into small pieces. Let peeled root stand in the water for another 2 hours. Sweeten mixture with honey and drink lukewarm. Good for coughs, indigestion.
important: Marshmallow tends to coat the stomach lining so it may interfere with absorption of other herbs or drugs. Best taken several hours before or after taking other medications. May decrease blood sugar. Talk to a doctor before taking if you have diabetes.
Silybum marianum
Family: Asteraceae
Other Names: St. Mary’s Thistle, Fr. Chardon-marie
Parts used: Seeds, leaves, root
Characteristics: Bland, slightly bitter
Systems affected: Liver, spleen, kidneys
Actions: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, astringent, cholagogue, diaphoretic, diuretic, galactagogue
Milk Thistle, or St. Mary’s Thistle, has been used for thousands of years throughout Europe and the Middle East as a liver remedy. Large and distinctive, its spiny leaves are marbled with white veins that were said to be the milk of the Virgin Mary, hence its name. It can grow up to 1.5 metres tall, and its magenta-coloured flowers appear at the top of the stems from April to October. Spiny bracts surround the flowers and give them a star-like appearance. It’s considered a noxious weed in some areas, as it can be toxic to cattle and sheep, especially when grown in nitrate-rich soil. It should be harvested only from organic areas that have not been used for farmland or treated with pesticides.
MEDICINAL USES:
Liver, spleen and kidney congestion, mushroom poisoning, alcohol and drug abuse, low milk production
other uses: All parts are edible, however the thorns need to be removed from each leaf. 1–2 tsp. ground seeds per day may be added to smoothies. Reduce dose if it causes diarrhea.
tincture: Take 5–60 drops, depending on severity of the condition.
important: Generally safe, but use only organic herb from a reputable dealer as it has a tendency to absorb nitrates from fertilized farmland.
Asclepias syriaca (Common)
Asclepias incarnate (Swamp)
Family: Apocynaceae
Other names: Common silkweed, Swamp Milkweed, Cottonweed, Wild Cotton, Fr. Laiteron, Cochons de lait
Parts used: Whole plant
Systems affected: Lungs
Actions: Diuretic, anodyne, emetic, purgative, alterative, tonic, diaphoretic, expectorant (roots also emmenagogue)
The name Milkweed comes from the thick milky sap or latex that oozes from the plant when cut. It is a native perennial with a thick, hollow unbranched stem that grows 1–2 metres tall. The large, leathery, opposite leaves are smooth on top and downy underneath. The umbels of the terminal or lateral flowers are fragrant and pink or purplish, blooming from July to August. They are followed by the growth of fleshy seed pods, which are about 5–12 cm. long, grey-green and warty with prickles, and contain a wad of feathery down and flat brown seeds arranged in overlapping rows. Milkweed can be found in fields and along roadsides and is a favourite of the Monarch butterfly larvae, which chew the leaves to make themselves distasteful to predators. Grazing animals usually avoid Milkweed, as it can be toxic for them. Harvest roots in the fall and dry. Be careful not to confuse with Butterfly Weed, which has bright orange flowers, clear sap, and is inedible. Dogbane, which is poisonous, is also similar but the stem is solid, reddish, often branched, and has a bitter taste.
MEDICINAL USES:
Coughs, skin ailments
other uses:
important: Milkweed contains small amounts of toxic cardio-active glycosides. Not for use if you have a heart condition or high blood pressure. Not for use during pregnancy. Older leaves are poisonous if consumed in large quantities or over a long period of time. Use recommended only by a certified herbalist or in formulas not exceeding 25%. Do not get sap in eyes; wash hands thoroughly after handling.
Mentha x piperita (Peppermint)
Mentha spicata (Spearmint)
Family: Lamiaceae
Other names: Peppermint, Spearmint, Fr. Menthe
Parts used: Whole plant
Characteristics: Cool, pungent, drying
Systems affected: Digestive
Actions: Carminative, antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, antioxidant, antihistamine, analgesic, aromatic, diaphoretic, antiemetic, nervine, antimicrobial, emmenagogue, relaxant, stimulant
Mint is a well-known invasive perennial that is easily identified by its familiar cooling aroma and taste. There are hundreds of varieties, but the two most popular are probably Peppermint (M. x piperita), a hybrid between Spearmint and Watermint and the one usually used in herbal medicine; and Spearmint (M. spicata), although many others grow wild in eastern Canada. They are visually similar but with a slightly different taste and odour. Both grow up to just under 1 metre tall, with square stems and runners that spread quickly if not confined. They prefer damp, moist soils and have toothed oblong leaves. The flowers are pink, mauve, or white, and grow in spikes throughout the summer. Harvest when the plants are in bloom and have the most flavour.
MEDICINAL USES:
Indigestion, upper respiratory ailments, colds and flu, sore muscles
other uses:
important: People with gallbladder issues, acid reflux, or problems with the esophagus should avoid this herb. Peppermint essential oil is highly concentrated and should be used with caution as it may cause dermatitis—dilute before consuming. Overconsumption may cause relaxing of the peristaltic action of the colon, slowing the movement of food in the GI tract. Do not take if you have a hiatal hernia. Avoid if breastfeeding, as it may dry up milk supply.
Leonurus cardiaca
Family: Lamiaceae
Other Names: Lion’s Tail, Heartwort, Fr. Agripaume
Parts used: Leaves and flowers
Characteristics: Bitter, spicy, cool, pungent
Systems affected: Cardiovascular, liver, uterus, nervous system
Actions: Analgesic, sedative, emmenagogue, antispasmodic, cardiac tonic, hypotensive, nervine, diuretic, carminative, astringent, anti-inflammatory, aperient, febrifuge, diaphoretic, antidepressant
Motherwort is a perennial plant native to continental Europe. It has been grown since medieval times for its effectiveness in dealing with anxiety and “female disorders” (which then would have included childbirth, menopause, menstruation, and “hysteria”), and even to promote longevity. It grows wild throughout Eastern Canada (except for Newfoundland), and thrives in humus-rich soil and bright sun. It can be cultivated from seeds or by root propagation in spring or fall. The erect, square stems are up to 1.5 metres tall, and are often red and slightly hairy. The leaves are opposite and have 3–5 pointed lobes, also slightly hairy, and greyish on the underside. The 3-lobed flowers appear in July or August and are pink or purplish, hairy, and grow in clusters at the leaf axils. Motherwort may be collected when it blooms, before the seeds are formed, and dried for later use. Make sure to leave part of the stalk so as not to kill the plant.
MEDICINAL USES:
Suppressed or painful menstruation, arteriosclerosis, angina, palpitations, stress-related conditions
infusion: 1 tsp. dried or 2 tsp. fresh herb infused in 1 cup boiling water for 5 minutes; drink 2–4 times a day.
tincture: Take 10–20 drops 3 times a day.
important: Do not use during pregnancy, except during or after childbirth, as it can expedite the birthing process, and use only under the supervision of a midwife or doula. Do not use if you have heavy menstrual bleeding, have blood-clotting disorders, or are taking anti-coagulants. May cause dermatitis in some individuals.
Artemisia vulgaris
Family: Asteraceae
Other names: Moxa, Felon Herb, St. John’s Plant, Fr. Armoise Commune
Parts used: Leaves and roots
Characteristics: Bitter, acrid, slightly warm
Systems affected: Spleen, liver, kidney
Actions: Cholagogue, vermifuge, emmenagogue, haemostatic, antispasmodic, diuretic, diaphoretic, mild narcotic, nervine, bitter tonic
Mugwort is native to Europe, Africa, and Asia, but has now spread to most parts of the world. It grows up to 1.5 metres tall and has purple stems with smooth leaves that are pointed, deeply cut, and dark green on top and woolly and silvery-coloured underneath. The flowers are cottony and yellowish-green or reddish-brown in small oval heads growing on long terminal spikes.
It can easily be mistaken for Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium), which looks similar and has many similar medicinal properties, but there are a few differences. Wormwood has a very bitter taste, is more silvery in colour, and is aromatic and quite bushy. Its flowers are larger and yellow when in bloom. By contrast, Mugwort has very little scent, is only slightly bitter, and is taller and more slender. The leaves and flowers should be collected just before blooming, usually in August. Cut the top third of the plant and hang to dry. The roots can be harvested in the fall and dried whole.
MEDICINAL USES:
Delayed menstruation, parasites, digestive disorders, liver problems
folklore: A lot of lore surrounds this herb. In ancient China and Japan, it was hung in doorways to keep disease out, and similarly used throughout Europe to ward off evil spirits. Travellers carried it on their persons to keep away wild animals and stuffed it in their shoes to alleviate fatigue. Mugwort tea was often consumed before divinations, as it was thought to be a visionary herb. Some Indigenous peoples use a Mugwort smudge to purify the air. Leaves placed under a pillow may produce lucid and colourful dreams.
infusion: Mix 1 tsp. dried or fresh herb in 1 cup boiling water; steep for 10 minutes. Add honey if desired.
important: May cause miscarriage; do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding. Not recommended for use by women who have heavy periods. May cause allergic reactions. Do not exceed recommended dosages or use for an extended period of time as it may cause pain and spasms.
Verbascum thapsus
Family: Scrophulariaceae
Other names: White Mullein, Torches, Flannel plant, Candlewort, Candlewick, Fr. Bonhomme, Tabac du diable, Bouillon blanc, Molène vulgare
Parts used: Leaves, roots and flowers
Characteristics: Cool, bitter, sweet, drying
Systems affected: Liver, nervous system
Actions: Antiseptic, astringent, demulcent, emollient, expectorant, vulnerary
Mullein is a hard plant to miss, as it often grows to a height of 1.5 or 1.8 metres. During the first season of growth, only a rosette of soft, hairy leaves up to 38 cm. long appears. The following spring, a hairy stalk emerges from the centre, with leaves joined to the stalk and becoming smaller towards the top. The top becomes a flower spike, usually about 30 cm. long, with yellow flowers blooming randomly all along the stalk. The flowers are composed of 5 petals, each about 2.5 cm. in diameter. They should be harvested and dried quickly and carefully, so as not to bruise the delicate petals, since this will diminish their efficacy. The leaves are best when picked during the first year of growth; take only a few leaves so as not to kill the plant, and dry in the shade.
MEDICINAL USES:
Chest colds, bronchitis, asthma, earaches, and eczema
other uses: Used in cosmetics to soften the skin. The leaves were once stuffed in the shoes to keep the feet warm. A yellow dye can be made from the flowers.
folklore: The stem stripped of leaves and dipped in tallow was used as a torch and to protect against enchantment. Smoked leaves were believed to clear the air of negative energies and often used in witches’ ceremonies. Some people even carried the leaves to prevent conception.
infusion for cough: Mix 1–2 tsp. dried leaves in 1 cup of water and boil for 10 minutes. Strain thoroughly to remove any tiny hairs and plant material. Drink warm with honey. May be combined with Coltsfoot, Marshmallow, and/or Wild Thyme.
tincture: Take 1–2 ml. every few hours, as needed.
ear oil: Dry flowers gently in a slightly warm oven until crispy, place in glass jar, cover with organic extra-virgin olive oil. Mix well and mash with wooden spoon. Add a few drops of vitamin E oil. Cover and shake. Put in a dark place and macerate for 6 weeks, shaking often. Strain well and pour into dark-coloured jar. Store at room temperature. To use, place 2–3 drops in ear canal 2–3 times a day.
important: Tea or infusions taken internally should be strained through a fine cloth or sieve before ingesting to remove tiny hairs, which can irritate the digestive tract. Some increase in coughing may occur when taken to treat respiratory problems; this is an indication phlegm is loosening and the herb is ultimately doing its job.
Brassica nigra (Black Mustard)
Brassica alba (White Mustard)
Family: Brassicaceae
Other names: Fr. Moutarde
Parts used: Seeds, leaves, oil
Characteristics: Warm, pungent
Systems affected: Lungs, stomach
Actions: Rubifacient, irritant, stimulant, diuretic, emetic, carminative, tonic, diaphoretic
This common spice is a native plant of Europe, but is now often cultivated across North America, although it has escaped farms and is also growing wild just about everywhere. There are dozens of mustard species worldwide, and it is not only one of the oldest medicinal plants, but has also been used as a vegetable for hundreds of years. It is an erect annual that grows up to 1 metre in height. Its lower leaves are bristly and coarsely lobed, and the upper leaves are lance-shaped and hairless. The flowers of both Black and White Mustard species are yellow with 4 rounded petals arranged in the shape of a cross, Black being slightly smaller. The fruit of the two plants is quite different. The White variety grows horizontally and is hairy, roundish, and swollen, with 4–6 seeds, which are larger than the Black and have a sword-shaped beak at the tip. The short-beaked Black Mustard pod is smooth, erect, and flattened, with 10–12 small dark-red or black seeds. Black Mustard is stronger in flavour and pungency, and is more effective medicinally than the White variety. The young plants (before flowering) are nutritious, good in salads, and have a slightly pungent flavour.
MEDICINAL USES:
Chest congestion, arthritis, muscular or skeletal pain, athlete’s foot
mustard plaster: Mix 1 tbsp. dry mustard with 1 tbsp. flour; mix in enough warm water to make a thick paste. Spread between two pieces of soft flannel, and place on chest until it becomes uncomfortably warm (approximately 10 minutes).
important: Not recommended for people with gastrointestinal ulcers or inflammatory kidney diseases. Never use the oil undiluted as it can cause blisters. Will cause vomiting in large doses.