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BLACKBERRY RUBUS FRUCTICOSUS The berries area powerful remedy against the poison of the most venomous serpents. Blackberries are so well known that they need no description. Where to find it: The Blackberry or Bramble when not being trained to grow up walls and fences in gardens will be found in hedgerows. Flowering time: The blossoms and the fruits may be seen together in the late summer. Astrology. It is a plant of Venus in Aries. If any ask why Venus is so prickly, tell them 'tis because she is in the house of Mars. Medicinal virtues: The buds, leaves and branches, while green, are of good use in ulcers and putrid sores of the mouth and throat and for quinsy, and likewise to heal other fresh wounds and sores. The unripe flowers and fruits are very binding and so profitable for the bloody flux, laxes and for spitting of blood. The decoction or powder of the root is good to break or drive forth gravel and the stone in the reins and kidneys. The leaves and brambles can be used as a lotion for sores in the mouth or secret parts. The juice of the berries mixed with the juice of Mulberries bind more effectually and help all fretting and eating sores and ulcers. The distilled water of the branches, leaves and flowers, or of the fruit, is pleasant and effectual in fevers and hot distempers. Modern uses: The root and leaves are astringent and toning. The root is more potent. An infusion of 1 oz (28 g) of leaves or root to 1 Pt (568 ml) of boiling water is taken in doses of 2 fl oz (56 ml) for simple diarrhoea. The American Blackberry (Rubus villosus) has similar properties. |