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CELANDINE (The Lesser) RANUNCULUS FICARIA The virtue of an herb may be known by its signature, as plainer appears in this. For if you dig up the root of it, you shall perceive the perfect image of the disease which they commonly call the piles. The Lesser Celandine, also known as Pilewort, neither resembles Celan- dine in nature or in form. It spreads many round pale green leaves on weak and trailing branches, which lie on the ground and are flat, smooth and somewhat shining. The yellow flowers are like Buttercups, but about one inch (25 mm) across. Where to find it: Moist corners of fields and near watersides, but also in drier ground if it be shady. Flowering time: It flowers in early spring and is quite gone by late spring, so it cannot be found until the next year. Astrology: It is under the dominion of Mars. Medicinal virtues: The decoction of the leaves and root doth wonderfully help piles and haemorrhoids, also kernels by the ears and throat, called the king's-evil, or any other hard wens or tumours. Pilewort made into an oil, ointment or plaister cures piles or haemorrhoids and the king's-evil. 1 cured my own daughter of the king's-evil, broke the sore, drew out a quarter of a pint of corruption and she was cured without any scar at all in one week's time. Modern uses: Another herb that is still extensively used. Its astringent properties make it a valuable remedy for haemorrhoids. It can be taken internally as an infusion in doses of 2 fl oz (56 ml), or an ointment can be obtained and applied to the piles. The tincture is available from medical herbalists. |