SUNDEW |
DROSERA ANGLICA Some authors tell us that a water distilled from this plant is higher cordial and restorative; but it is more than probable that it never deserved the character given of it in that respect. A perennial, now known as Great Sundew, which catches and digests insects. It grows to about ten inches (25 cm) high with club-shaped, hollow leaves, full of red hairs. The leaves stay moist on the hottest day. The stalks bear small whitish buds which are the flowers and which afterwards contain the seeds. Where to find it: In bogs and wet places in woods. Flowering time: Early summer. Astrology: The Sun rules it, and it is under the sign of Cancer. Medicinal virtues: The leaves, bruised and applied to the skin, will erode it and bring out inflammations not easily removed. The juice destroys warts and corns if a little be frequently applied to them. Moderg uses: This is a fairly rare plant, except for some parts of Scotland and Ireland. Herbalists, therefore, use the Common or Round-leaved Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia). This is quite commonly found in Europe, the United States, South America and China, in bogs, wet moors and heathland, but is expensive to buy. The plant contains a natural antibiotic and is regarded as a specific for whooping cough, but also useful for chronic bronchitis, asthma and laryngitis. Drosera controls the spasms of whooping cough and can be administered as a prophylactic when an epidemic is threatened. Best results are obtained by using a fluid extract or tincture prepared by a herbalist. Five to ten drops are taken in water three or four times a day. Homoeopathic pills in various strengths are also available and have similar indications. |