Allspice, used as a spice and medicinal herb, is the dried, unripe berry or fruit of the evergreen pimento tree. Other common names include: Jamaican pepper, pimento, pimenta, clove pepper, myrtle pepper, and newspice.The tree grows 22 to 43 feet high on average, but is slow growing. Its leaves are leathery, glossy, and elliptical-shaped. The tree blooms with small white flowers in the spring and fall, turning to clusters of brownish-green berries in the fall. The tree is cultivated in tropical regions, and is native to southern Mexico, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean. Allspice contains a chemical compound called eugenol that is known to be antiseptic and anesthetic. Allspice is also carminative, antidiarrheal, aromatic, a...
Eucalyptus leaves in general have been used traditionally for ages by the aboriginals in its native habitat (primarily continental Australia and Tasmania). It has been used topically to treat wounds and fungal infections, and internally as a tea to help with fever. In Chinese and Indian traditional medicine, Eucalyptus has been used for treatment of these and a variety of other ailments. Eucalyptus has been used since the 19th century to disinfect catheters.
Yarrow has an ancient relationship with mankind, and has many uses, but yarrow's main effect and what it is most famous for is its ability to aid in the healing of wounds. Yarrow also helps with circulation, aiding in breaking fevers by causing sweating, and aiding in digestion.
This week, we'll be looking at the properties of the catnip plant. The Latin name for this plant is Nepeta cataria. It's other names include: Cataire, Catmint, Catnep, Catswort, Chataire, Field Balm, Herbe à Chat, Herbe aux Chats, Hierba Gatera, Menta de Gato, Menthe des Chats. Catnip is an ancient herb that has a long standing relationship with both mankind, and catkind. Growing native in Europe and Asia, it was used by Roman cooks and doctors. Records from England and France show that catnip was used as a hot drink before black tea became popular. European settlers brought catnip to the United States in the 1600's, introducing it to the Native Americans....