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BLUE-BOTTLE CENTAUREA CYANUS It is a remedy against the poison of the scorpion. We know it now as the Cornflower, a most attractive wild plant, but it was called Cyanus because of its blue colour and also Hurtsickle because its tough stems blunted the edges of the farmer's sickle as he reaped the corn. Another name is Blue-blow. Its leaves spread upon the ground, being of whitish-green colour. The flowers are an innumerable company set in a scaly head. Where to find it. In cornfields. Flowering time: From late spring until the corn is harvested. Astrology: Under the dominion of Saturn ... cold, dry and binding. Medicinal virtues: The powder or dried leaves is given with good success to those that are bruised by a fall, or have broken a vein inwardly, and void much blood at the mouth. Taken in the water of Plantain, Horsetail or the Greater Comfrey, it is a remedy against the poison of the scorpion and resisteth all venoms and poison. The seed or leaves taken in wine is good against the plague and all infectious diseases and in pestilential fevers. The juice put into wounds doth quickly solder up the lips of them together and heals ulcers and sores in the mouth. Thejuice dropped into the eyes takes away heat and inflammation. Modern uses: The flowers are occasionally used for their tonic and stimulant properties, but the Blessed Thistle (Carbenia benedicta) which has similar properties is now more popular with today's herbalists. The Cornflower gives an infusion a bluish colour. Its main uses are in the treatment of dyspepsia and as an eye lotion. |