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HERB CHRISTOPHER ACTAEA SPICATA The leaves may be applied with good success to hard tumours or swellings on the breast. A perennial, commonly called Banebarry, growing to about two feet (60 cm) high. The root is long and thick, black on the outside, yellow within. The leaves are large and divided and the flowers are small and white. It bears black, shiny berries. Where to find it: Woods and scrubland. Flowering time: Midsummer. Astrology: It is under the dominion of Saturn. Medicinal virtues: The berries are poisonous; but used externally, the leaves are good for inflammations and can be used in place of Common Nightshade. Modern uses: The whole plant is poisonous, and is not to be used internally. A homoeopathic medicine is made from the root and is a remedy for rheumatism.There is an American variety with white berries, known as White Cohosh (Actaea alba). This is indicated in the treatment of painful rnenstruation and pelvic congestion, with emotional upsets and depression. The dosage of the tincture is 2-5 drops only, three times a day. |