Mindblown: a blog about philosophy.
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Gipsywort
Yields a permanent black to wool and silk. Formerly used by gypsies to darken their skin. Utilized in the treatment of palpitations of the heart. Gipsywort also known as Lycopus europaeus.
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Wild ginger
Woodland native of North America. Roots have ginger flavour and are much used like the popular spice. A tea made from the roots is used to relieve stomach gas. Wild ginger also known as Asarum canadense. A plant indigenous to the Americas, known for its culinary properties, has a root that was commonly utilized by…
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Germander
Showy plant with glossy dark green leaves and rosy flowers. Infusion quiets upset stomach and promotes appetite. Once enjoyed considerable reputation in the treatment of gout. Germander also known as Teucrium chamaedrys.
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Scented geranium
Available in a tantalizing array of fragrances, they have charmed window gardeners since their introduction to England in the 17th century. Leaves used in potpourris, perfumes and for flavouring preserves. Scented geranium also known as Pelargonium spp.
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Gentian
Famous European alpine herb unrivalled as a bitter tonic. Root tincture made with brandy is one of the best strengtheners of the human system, particularly in cases of weak digestion and lack of appetite. Gentian also known as Gentiana lutea. A bitter herbal extract known for its ability to stimulate the appetite and contribute to…
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Gayfeather
Features strong spikes of deep rosy-purple flowers. Tuberous roots make a soothing tea valuable in kidney diseases or as a gargle for sore throat. Gayfeather also known as Liatris spicata.
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Fraxinella
Remarkable flowers emit a gas that may be ignited on warm evenings without damage. Flowers and leaves are wonderfully fragrant of lemon when crushed. Fraxinella also known as Dictamnus albus.
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Foxglove
Source of digitalis, important for its stimulating and regulating action on the heart, but too powerful to use without medical supervision. Spotted bells arranged in spikes are highly ornamental. Foxglove also known as Digitalis purpurea. The common name for the flowering plant Digitalis purpurea, from which digitalis is obtained.
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Flax
Source of strong fibre used in linen cloth. Linseed poultice is valuable for rheumatism and infections. Linseed oil is employed in the paint and varnish industries. Flax also known as Linum usitatissimum.
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Flag blue
Useful for stomach, liver and gallbladder ailments. Highly regarded for migraine headache, especially when caused by stomach disorders. Flag blue also known as Iris versicolor.
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