QUEEN ANNE’S LACE

Daucus carota

Family: Apiaceae

Other names: Wild carrot, Bee’s Nest, Bird’s Nest, Fr. Carotte sauvage

Parts used: Root, leaves, and seeds

Characteristics: Bitter

Systems affected: Bladder, kidney, uterus

Actions: Diuretic, purgative, vermifuge, anthelmintic, carminative, antilithic, emmenagogue

This biennial herb is found along roadsides and fields throughout most of Canada during the summer months, and is a direct descendent of the garden-variety carrot. A native of southern Europe, its stems are up to 0.9 metres high, and are erect and branched with finely dissected, fern-like leaves. Flowers are densely clustered white umbels radiating from the central stalk with a tiny purple or pink flower in the centre. As the seeds ripen, the umbels contract and curve inwards, forming a nest-like appearance, hence the name Bird’s Nest. The large taproot is whitish and bitter and smells like carrot. It is harvested in late summer and should be cut longitudinally and dried, or the tender smaller roots may be eaten fresh in the spring. The leaves should be picked in July before it has gone to seed; the seeds are more potent when collected just before they are fully mature.

MEDICINAL USES:

Urinary antiseptic, kidney stones, gout, rheumatism, flatulence and colic, diuretic for edema

• An infusion of the leaves is effective in the treatment of digestive disorders, as it soothes the digestive tract and relieves gas. A wonderful cleansing herb, it can relieve chronic kidney problems, gout, stones, and bladder infections. Diuretic, it is useful in treating edema and in weight loss to eliminate water retention.
• The seeds are known to stimulate the pituitary gland, which in turn stimulates sex hormones to bring on menstruation. It has been used to prevent conception, although when use is stopped, it may increase chances of conceiving, as it tones the uterus. Reduces heavy flow and helps with the symptoms of endometriosis.
• The root is slightly bitter but edible, and is rich in vitamin A. It can be used in a poultice to ease the pain of skin ulcers, or in infusions as a mild laxative, diuretic, or to expel kidney stones.
• The Mi’kmaq have used it as a purgative, and it has been used widely for lack of appetite, to expel intestinal worms, and as a poultice to reduce swelling and soothe sores.

other uses: Seeds contain an essential oil that is used in anti-wrinkle cream, and a decoction of the seeds and root makes a good insecticide. The seeds can also be used as flavouring for soups and stews.

folklore: The tiny red flower in the centre is apparently how Queen Anne’s Lace got its name, since Queen Anne, according to legend, pricked her finger while making lace, leaving one droplet of blood. The flower was once believed to cure epilepsy.

infusion: Pour 1 cup of boiling water onto 1 tsp. of dried leaves or bruised seeds; infuse 10–15 minutes. Drink 3 times a day.

tincture: Use 20 drops twice a day.

important: Should not be used by pregnant women, as it may stimulate contractions.