Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Pleurisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa)
Bright orange-red flowers. Roots act specifically on the lungs, assisting expectoration and subduing inflammation. Valuable for all chest complaints, including pleurisy.
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Pimpernel (Anagallis arvensis)
Ancient reputation for treating depression, melancholy, and allied mental disorders. Scarlet, white or blue flowers close when bad weather is imminent, earning the name “weatherglass.” This diminutive plant, an annual variety, is typically found growing in wild and untended areas. Although it may seem insignificant, it has the potential to serve as a seasoning, adding…
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Madagascar Periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus)
Source of several anti-cancer alkaloids used in treating leukemia and other forms of cancer. Has been employed as a tea for diabetics. Flowers rose, salmon, pink or white.
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Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Unusual vine bearing spectacular star-like lavender flowers. Edible purple fruits possess pleasant flavour. Used as table fruit and in sherbet, jam, and beverages. This fruit is about the size of a plum and is cultivated in California. It has a yellow aromatic pulp that suggests a blend of the flavors of peach, apricot, and guava.…
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Pasque Flower (Anemone Pulsatilla)
Pretty rock garden plant with masses of purple flowers appearing early in spring. Valuable in correcting membrane disorders of the respiratory and digestive passages.
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New Jersey Tea (Ceanothus americanus)
Used as a tea substitute during the American Revolution. Indians made a wash for skin problems including skin cancer and venereal sores. A good gargle for mouth and throat sores.
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Mullein (Verbascum thapsus)
Striking yellow flower stalks rise from a woolly leaf base. Good remedy for coughs, hoarseness and bronchitis.
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Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)
Especially valuable for female weakness and disorders. Helps calm the entire nervous system. Old remedy for strengthening the heart.
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Melilot (Meklotus officinalis)
Important forage crop. Medicinally, it prevents blood clotting. Salve or poultice is useful for swellings, boils, arthritis and rheumatism.
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Common Marjoram (Origanum vulgare)
Medicinal variety of oregano lacking true oregano’s familiar aroma and flavour. Used for upset stomach, headache, cough, and diarrhea. Also as gargle for mouth and throat inflammations. Handsome purple or pink flowers attract honeybees.
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