PINEAPPLE WEED

Matricaria discoida (matricarioides)

Family: Asteraceae

Other names: Wild Camomile, Rayless Mayweed, Disc Mayweed

Parts used: Flowers

Characteristics: Aromatic, bitter, neutral, spicy

Systems affected: Liver, stomach

Actions: Antiseptic, carminative, diaphoretic, sedative, antispasmodic, analgesic, anthelmintic

This annual plant resembles Camomile but without the petals, and is distinguished by its scent, which lies somewhere between Chamomile and pineapple. Its erect stem has many finely dissected leaves, and usually grows to about 30 cm. high. The solitary, terminal, cone-shaped flowerheads are greenish-yellow and encircled by bracts. This plant grows in disturbed areas, roadsides, and pathways from June until early fall. Collect the flowers early in the summer and dry for later use.

MEDICINAL USES:

Insomnia, digestive problems, skin disorders, fevers

• Infusion of flowers is effective for relieving indigestion, bloating, and constipation.
• Calming and sedative, it relieves insomnia and reduces anxiety.
• Stimulates milk production in nursing women.
• Induces sweating to reduce fevers; good for colds and flu.
• Flowerheads are packed with nutrients, which give an energetic boost.
• Helps expel intestinal worms.
• Works externally as a mouthwash and gargle, and as a compress or bath preparation for insect bites and skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. Reduces inflammation and relieves pain.
• Indigenous peoples used it for treating stomach problems, gas, sores, fevers and menstrual pain.

other uses:

• Indigenous peoples use these aromatic flowers as perfume, often carrying them in medicine pouches along with Sweetgrass and Cedar or Fir. The dried plants have also been used to line cradles and stuff pillows.
• Makes an effective insect repellent.

infusion: Mix 1 tbsp. young flowerheads in 1 cup boiling water; steep 5–10 minutes. Drink 2–3 times a day.

important: In large quantities this herb may cause stomach upset or diarrhea. People with sensitive skin or allergies may experience inflammation or itching.

PITCHER PLANT

Sarracenia purpurea

Family: Sarraceniaceae

Other names: Eve’s Cups, Flycatcher, Fly-trap, Water Cup, Fr. Népenthès, Oreille de cochon, Petits cochons

Parts used: Roots, leaves

Characteristics: Bitter

Systems affected: Lungs, liver, stomach, kidney, uterus

Actions: Diuretic, hepatic, stimulating tonic, laxative, stomachic, astringent (root)

This strange and unique carnivorous perennial is native to North America, and can be found in bogs and wet meadows throughout eastern Canada. Its leaves are evergreen, usually 15–23 cm., reddish to green, veined, and shaped like an inflated tube topped by an arching hood. The single purple nodding flower, which blooms from May to July, grows atop a scape of 30–60 cm. high. The leaves fill with rainwater and trap insects and other small creatures inside, due to the downward-pointing hairs inside the tube. It then releases enzymes that digest the insect, from which it obtains most of its nutrients.

MEDICINAL USES:

Fevers, constipation, indigestion, kidney ailments

• Dried leaf tea used to ease fevers and chills.
• Root used to reduce sluggishness, create movement. Laxative, stimulates a sluggish liver, relieves stomach upset.
• Relieves kidney, urinary tract, and bladder infections.
• Infusion of dried leaves used to facilitate childbirth, expel the placenta, and prevent sickness after childbirth; brings on menstruation in cases of amenorrhea.
• Cold decoction of leaves and root used in treatment of whooping cough.
• An infusion of the roots was once used as a remedy and prevention for smallpox by North American Indigenous peoples. It is highly regarded by the Cree and often added to other medicines to increase effectiveness.
• An extract made from the plant, called Sarapin, can be injected as an alternative to steroids or cortisone to relieve pain, although it is rarely used in medical practice, perhaps due to the fact it cannot be patented.

important: Do not use if pregnant or breastfeeding.

PLANTAIN

Plantago major (Common Plantain)
Plantago lanceolata (English Plantain)

Family: Plantaginaceae

Other names: Englishman’s Foot, Ribwort, Fr. Plantain

Parts used: Leaves and seeds

Characteristics: Bland, slightly bitter, cool, drying

Systems affected: Bladder, small intestine, gallbladder

Actions: Diuretic, alterative, anti-inflammatory, mild laxative, astringent, anti-microbial, antiseptic, hemostatic

One of the most common herbs found in the Maritimes, Common Plantain (P. major) grows on practically every lawn, roadside, or abandoned lot. It will pop up virtually anywhere, including paved driveways or in sidewalk cracks, and needs very little sun. It grows close to the ground, with a rosette of ovate, blunt leaves 10–25 cm. long, with long fibrous ribs. The erect flower spikes are dark green and can be up to 30 cm. long. The narrow-leaved English Plantain (P. lanceolata) has longer-stemmed flower spikes, but many of the same medicinal properties as the common variety. The young plants of both varieties may be eaten fresh in salads if harvested in the spring. To preserve for later, they should be gathered during flowering throughout the summer and dried quickly, as they tend to discolour rapidly. Use only plants from yards that have never been sprayed with chemicals.

MEDICINAL USES:

Wounds, insect bites, urinary tract infections, digestive tract inflammation

• Bruised leaves may be applied directly to stings or insect bites, or used in a salve or ointment, as it soothes and relieves pain and itching.
• Astringent, it stops bleeding, promotes healing of exterior wounds, and is rich in tannin, which helps draw tissues together.
• Helps heal urinary tract infections and other internal inflammation, including hepatitis.
• Tea brewed from leaves and seeds, which are high in mucilage, is a folk remedy for diarrhea, dysentery, and bleeding hemorrhoids. Some studies indicate the leaves and seeds may also reduce blood pressure and lower cholesterol.
• Infusion of the leaves can be used as a gentle expectorant, to soothe an irritated throat, or to ease gastric inflammation and bleeding mucous membranes.
• Leaves are high in calcium and vitamins A, C, and K. Combines well with Calendula, Yarrow, Chamomile, and Agrimony in infusions.
• Leaves may be heated in warm water and applied to swollen joints or sore muscles to relieve pain.

other uses and folklore:

• Cold tea used as a hair rinse for dandruff.
• Once believed to cure rabies and ward off snakes.
• Put on aching feet after a long trek to relieve soreness and fatigue.

healing salve: Place 2 cups of entire chopped Plantain plant in a non-metallic pan, add ½ cup lard or coconut oil, heat slowly on low heat until mixture becomes green and wilted; strain, pour into jars, and cool. Will harden slightly; good for use on burns, rashes, bites, and other sores.

POND LILY

Nymphaea odorata (Water Lily)
Nuphar variegate (Cow Lily)

Family: Nymphaeaceae

Other names: Water Lily, Beaver Root, Fr. Nénuphar

Parts used: Rhizome, flowers, stems

Characteristics: Bitter, cool

Systems affected: Nervous, intestinal, heart

Actions: Anaphrodisiac, astringent, demulcent, cardiotonic, antispasmodic, antiscrophulactic, anodyne, sedative

Water or Pond Lily is a native perennial aquatic plant that grows from an anchor of rootlets buried in the mud of a pond or lake. Its long stem extends upward to the surface, where its flat, waxy, orbicular leaves—dark green on top, purplish underneath and notched at the base—float on the surface. The large, sweetly scented flowers of the Water variety (N. odorata) float on the surface, and are around 12 cm. in diameter and bowl-shaped with many petals. They can be white or pinkish with a yellow centre, and they close up in the evening. The Yellow Pond Lily or Cow Lily (N. variegata) has similar properties but is less effective medicinally than Nymphaea. The roots can be harvested in the fall when the flowers have died down, and may be dried and ground for later use.

MEDICINAL USES:

Diarrhea, chronic bronchitis, leukorrhea, skin inflammation, boils, mouth infections

• Mi’kmaq use the mashed root as a poultice for sore limbs, arthritis, and as a food source.
• A tea made from Water Lily roots contains tannin and mucilage, and was once used to treat tuberculosis and chronic bronchitis, as well as diarrhea and other gastrointestinal inflammation. It can also be used as a douche to treat vaginal discharge (leukorrhea).
• The flowers are reported to reduce libido and have a tranquilizing effect, reduce pain and anxiety, and help relieve insomnia. Some claim that smoking the dried buds has a psychoactive effect.
• A poultice of the mashed root is used in the treatment of swellings, boils, wounds, bee stings, and inflamed tissues, and when mixed with lemon juice may reduce the appearance of pimples and freckles,
• Infusion may be used as a mouthwash to treat inflamed gums and sore throat.

other uses: Flower buds can be cooked as a vegetable; ripe seeds may be ground into meal and used as a flour substitute.

infusion: Mix 1–2 tsp. dried root in 1 cup boiling water; steep 10 minutes. Strain, take 2 times a day.

folklore: The scientific name derives from the Greek word “numphe,” or “water nymph,” and is associated with purity, chastity, or virginity—no doubt due to its anaphrodisiac properties. The Lotus, also a member of the Water Lily family, has been used as a symbol of the Buddha and immortality for thousands of years.

important: Avoid use during pregnancy or breastfeeding. May interfere with drugs affecting the central nervous system (opioids, antidepressants, antipsychotics). Do not consume more than the recommended dose, as it is potentially toxic.

PURPLE LOOSESTRIFE

Lythrum salicaria

Family: Lythraceae

Other names: Rainbowweed, Purple Willow Herb, Flowering Sally, Fr. Salicaire commune

Parts used: Aerial

Characteristics: Sour, cool, dry, moist

Actions: Astringent (leaves and stems), mucilaginous (flowering spikes), antibacterial, antioxidant, antispasmodic, diuretic, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, styptic, tonic, vulnerary

Purple Loosestrife has a bad reputation for being an invasive species, although it really only invades areas that have been laid fallow by human intervention; it usually remains under control in a natural habitat. It is a handsome perennial, growing up to 2.5 metres high, with square or many-sided stems branching towards the top. The leaves are lance-shaped, attach closely to the stem, and are usually opposite. The taproots are woody with a creeping rhizome. The bright purplish or crimson flowers grow along the top part of the spike from the bottom up, in whorls of 6 or 8 flowers, each one composed of a tube with (usually) 6 equal petals and 12 stamens. They produce up to 3 million seeds a year and also reproduce from the rhizomes, so it can spread rapidly, choking out other native plants. It grows mainly in wet, swampy areas, with flowers blooming from July to September. Gather when in full bloom and dry in the shade, storing in cloth bags for later use.

MEDICINAL USES:

Chronic diarrhea, leukorrhea, sore dry eyes, fevers, skin inflammation, and sores

• Valuable healing plant as it contains a balance of astringent (tightens and restores tone to tissues) and mucilage (soothes, lubricates, and eases inflammation). Excellent for chronic diarrhea, dysentery, enteritis, IBS, and leaky gut, as it repairs tissues and reduces pain and inflammation. Strangely enough, it also works well for constipation as it tones the mucus membranes and strengthens the intestinal walls, improving motility.
• A sterile infusion makes an excellent eyewash for sore, dry eyes.
• Decoction used to bring down fevers and to treat liver problems.
• For external applications to sores, ulcers, bruises, abrasions, irritations, and to stop bleeding, prepare a strong decoction and apply as an ointment or poultice.
• Stems may be chewed to prevent bleeding gums; a decoction of leaves and stems may also be used as a mouthwash for irritated gums or throat.
• Decoction used as a douche for leukorrhea, or may be applied to hemorrhoids.
• Was once a valuable treatment for cholera, drunk in small doses of warm tea mixed with Ginger.

other uses and folklore:

• Ancient Greeks hung garlands of Purple Loosestrife around the necks of oxen, as they believed it helped them to work better as a team.
• Once used as a hair dye and to drive away insects.
• A decoction may be used to soak wood or rope to prevent rotting.

decoction: Place 1–2 tsp. dried herb in 1 cup of hot water; steep 1 hour. Take 1–3 cups per day.

PURSLANE

Portulaca oleracea

Family: Portulacaceae

Other Names: Pigweed, Little Hogweed, Fr. Pourpier

Parts Used: Aerial

Characteristics: Cooling, slightly sour, salty

Systems Affected: Liver, stomach

Actions: Antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, diuretic, vermicide

One of the most nutritious wild greens available, Purslane is largely ignored in North America and pulled out as a weed, but is considered a delicacy in many other countries. Probably originating in Asia or Africa, it is now found throughout the world, and is very high in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins A, B, C, and E, and beta-carotene, as well as fibre, potassium, and magnesium. Its round red stems and thick, succulent, spatula-shaped, dark-green leaves creep along the ground in waste places and in gardens. The tiny yellow flowers have 4–6 petals, and grow in the leaf rosettes. Best if picked in July, before flowering.

MEDICINAL USES:

High blood pressure, diarrhea, skin inflammation, coughs, gum irritation

• Very nutritious; contains vitamins A, B, C, and E, as well as potassium, magnesium, and calcium. Can be eaten raw in salads or added to soups and stews.
• Contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which improve heart health and reduce blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular disease. The presence of fibre helps in weight reduction, and the minerals may help prevent osteoporosis and improve circulation.
• Contains mucilage, which is soothing and cooling. In a small clinical trial, oral ingestion showed improvements in pulmonary function of patients with asthma. Honey added to the juice makes a syrup that is effective in relieving dry coughs.
• Stops hemorrhaging and reduces uterine bleeding.
• Treats diarrhea, intestinal bleeding, and hemorrhoids.
• High in antioxidants, which eliminate free radicals and may prevent certain cancers.
• Juice applied directly to the skin can relieve pain from bee stings and burns, reduce wrinkles, and remove blemishes.
• Beta-carotene helps improve vision and prevents eye degeneration as we age. Poultices of the juice may be applied to the eyes to reduce redness.
• Seeds were once crushed and boiled in wine to give to children as a vermifuge.
• Juice, when mixed with a drop of oil of roses, soothes inflamed gums and helps fasten loose teeth.

other uses and folklore: Was once strewn around the bed to ward off evil spirits.

important: Not recommended if you have kidney stones, due to the plant’s relatively high content of oxalic acid.