SWALLOW-WORT  |
ASCLEPIAS SYRIACA Its root is a counter-poison, both against the bad effects of poisonous herbs, and the bites and stings of venomous creatures. An herbaceous plant with stringy roots, tough stems about two feet (60 cm) high and bunches of star-shaped flowers, white or a dull red in colour. The seeds are in pods containing a silky down. Where to find it: A cultivated plant for the herbaceous border, but found wild in Syria, although it is a native of the United States and Canada where it is a common roadside weed. Flowering time: Early summer. Astrology: Jupiter owns this plant. Medicinal virtues: The root is the only part used. It is helpful against malignant pestilential fevers, which it carries off by sweat. It is also good against the dropsy and jaundice. Modern uses: The root has analgesic properties and is powdered and administered by infusion for asthma and fevers accompanied by much mucus. It helps expectoration, giving relief from coughing and reduces pain. The juice is applied to warts. The young shoots of the plant can be eaten like Asparagus. The name Swallow-wort is also applied to Asclepius tuberosa, which has similar properties, but is generally known to herbalists as Pleurisy Root because of its specific action on the lungs. It is also a native of the United States and Canada. The root is powdered and 1 oz (28 g) is infused in i 1/2 pt (1.1 1) of boiling water and given in doses 0f 2 fl Oz (56 ml) three or four times a day. It reduces the pain in pleurisy and helps breathing. Overdoses cause vomiting and purging. The fluid extract is best combined in equal parts with composition essence, available from herbalists, and taken in teaspoonful doses in warm water sweetened with honey. |