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DOG'S TOOTH VIOLET ERYTHRONIUM DENS CANIS A very powerful remedy, and a small dose will take effect. A very pretty plant with two broad leaves and a drooping flower. It grows five or six inches (13 or 15 cm) high. The leaves enclose a round, slender, weak stalk, green at the top and often white at the bottom. The flower is large and white with a tinge of red. It is long and hollow and hangs down. A very elegant plant. Where to find it: A garden plant, but is also found in damp, open woodlands. Flowering time: Early summer. Astrology. It is governed by the Moon. Medicinal virtues: The freshly gathered roots are good against the worms in children and quickly ease the pains of the belly which the worms produce. The expressed juice is best, but if children will not take it, the roots should be boiled in milk. It is best to begin with a very small dose; and if that is well borne, to increase the quantity. Modern uses: Eiythronium americanum is the variety now used. This is commonly known as American Adder's Tongue as well as, Dog's Tooth Violet. English Adder's Tongue (Ophioglossum vulgatum) is dealt with separately in this book under Adder's Tongue. The American herb has a yellow flower. It is emetic, emollient and anti-scrofulous. The herb is mainly used externally as small internal doses cause vomiting. A poultice is made from the fresh leaves and applied to tumours, swellings and ulcers to stimulate healing. It is not recommended for internal use domestically. |