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CLOWN'S WOUNDWORT STACHYS PALUSTRIS The herb deserves commendation, though it has received such a clownish name. Whoever reads this, if he try as I have done, will commend it. The plant, also called Marsh Woundwort, grows two or three feet (60 to 90 cm) high with square, green, rough stalks and narrow dark green leaves. The flowers are at the top and have reddish-pink hoods. The whole plant has a strong odour. Where to find it. In or near ditches. Flowering time: Early to midsummer. Astrology. Under the dominion of the planet Saturn. Medicinal virtues: It is effectual in all wounds, for the staunching of blood and to dry up the fluxes in old fretting ulcers. A syrup is made of the juice for inward wounds, ruptures of veins, or vomiting blood. If any vein or muscle be swollen apply an ointment or plaster of this herb, adding a little Comfrey. Modern uses: It is antiseptic and anti-spasmodic. The juice is styptic and if the bruised leaves are applied to a wound the bleeding will stop. A similar application relieves painful joints and cramp. |