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COSTMARYBALSAMITA MAJOR (= B. VULGARIS) It is an especial friend and help to evil, weak and cold livers. Once a common garden herb, now a rarity. It is closely allied to the common Tansy. It gives off a pleasanter aroma than Tansy and where it is still grown it is known as Mace. It is also called Alecost and Balsam Herb. Where to find it: An oriental herb formerly grown in every herb garden. It does well in all soils, but prefers dry. Flowering time: Early to midsummer. Astrology: It is under the dominion of Jupiter. Medicinal virtues: It provoketh urine, gently purgeth choler and phlegm and is a wonderful help to all sorts of dry agues. It is astringent to the stomach, and strengthens the liver and other inward parts. Taken first thing in the morning it is very profitable for pains in the head that are continual. It is helpful to those that have fallen into the continual evil disposition of the body called eachexia, but especially in the beginning of the disease. The seed is given to children for the worms and so is the infusion of flowers in white wine, two ounces (56 g) at a time. It maketh an excellent salve to cleanse and heal old ulcers, being boiled with olive oil and Adder's Tongue with it. After straining a little wax is added to thicken it. |