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ASH TREE
FRAXINUS EXCELSIOR This is so well known that time will be misspent in writing a description of it; and therefore 1 shall only insist upon the virtues of it. Where to find it: It is a large, deciduous woodland tree common throughout Europe. Flowering time: Mid to late spring. Astrology: It is governed by the Sun. Medicinal virtues: The young tender tops, with the leaves taken inwardly, and some outwardly applied, are singularly good against the biting of an adder, viper or any other venomous beast. The water distilled therefrom and taken in small quantity each morning fasting is a singular medicine to those that are subject to the dropsy, or to abate the greatness of those that are too gross or fat. The decoction of the leaves in white wine helpeth to break the stone and expel it, and cure the jaundice. The ashes of the bark made into lye, and those heads bathed therewith which are leprous, scabby or scald, they are thereby cured. The kernels within the husks, commonly called ashen key, prevail against stitches and pains in the side, proceeding of wind and voiding away the stone by provoking the urine. 1 can justly except against none of this, save only the first - that Ash Tree tops and leaves are good against the biting of serpents and vipers. The rest are virtues something likely, only if it be in winter when you cannot get the leaves, you may safely use the bark instead. The keys you may easily keep all the year, gathering them when they are ripe. Modern uses: It has laxative and diuretic properties. Also useful for intermittent fever. An infusion of the dried leaves is used in rheumatic disease and gout. |