| CHICKWEED
STELLARIA MEDIA Boil a handful of Chickweed and a handful of red Rose leaves dried in a quart (1.1 1) of muscadine until a fourth part be consumed, then put to them a pint(568 ml) of oil of troters or sheep's feet; let them boil a good while still stirring them well, which being strained, anoint the grieved part therewith, warm against the fire, rubbing it well with one hand; and bind also some of the herb, if you will, to the place, and with God's blessing it will help in three times dressing. Chickweed is generally known to most people being a common weed, if not the most common, the world over. Where to find it: It prefers moist places and wood-sides, but seeds readily on cultivated soil. Flowering time: It flowers throughout the year. Astrology: A fine, soft pleasing herb under the dominion of the Moon Medicinal virtues: The bruised herb or the juice applied with sponges to the region of the liver, doth temperate the heat of the liver, and is effectual for all imposthumes and swellings whatsoever, for all redness in the face, wheals, scabs and the itch. The juice, simply used or boiled with hog's grease and applied, helpeth cramps, convulsions and palsy. The juice or distilled water is good for all heats and redness in the eyes if some is dropped into them and is good to ease pain from the heat and sharpness of blood in the piles. It is used also in hot and virulent ulcers and sores in the privy parts of men and women, or on the legs or elsewhere. The leaves boiled with Marsh Mallow and made into a poultice with Fenugreek and Linseed, applied to swellings and imposthumes, ripen and break them, or assuage the swellings and ease the pains. It helpeth the sinews when they are shrunk by cramp or otherwise. Modern uses: Chickweed is a valuable healing and soothing agent, used in many ways, both internally and externally. The herb digested in oil and made into an ointment is excellent for haemorrhoids and ulcers, or for eczema, psoriasis or other irritating skin diseases. A decoction of the herb is used to wash and bathe swollen and inflamed tissues. The powder is used in poultices to give relief in bronchitis, pleurisy and rheumatism. The tea can be taken internally at the same time - one teaspoonful to a cup of boiling water. Three or four cups a day may be taken. |
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