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SOUTHERNWOOD
ARTEMISIA ABROTANUM The seed bruised, heated in warm water, and drank, helps those that are troubled with cramps or Convulsions of the sinews. A perennial with woody stems, grey-green leaves and small yellow flowers. Also called Old Man's Tree, Boy's Love and Lad's Love. Where to find it: A common garden plant, but a native, of southern Europe. Flowering time.. Midsummer. Astrology: A mercurial plant. Medicinal virtues: The seed and dried herb kills worms in children. The herb bruised and applied draws out splinters and thorns from the flesh. The ashes mingled with salad oil, helps those that are bald, causing the hair to grow again on the head or beard. A strong decoction of the leaves is a good worm medicine, but is disagreeable and nauseous. The leaves are a good ingredient in fomentations for easing pain, dispersing swellings, or stopping the progress of gangrenes. Modern uses: The infusion of the dried herb - 1 oz (30 g) to 1 pt (570 mI) of boiling water - is taken in doses of 2 fl oz (56 ml) three times a day to promote menstruation. Combined with the infusion of Rosemary, it makes a good lotion, stimulating circulation in the scalp and encouraging the growth of healthy hair. The powdered herb is given in teaspoonful doses in syrup twice a day to remove intestinal worms. |