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SYCAMORE TREE ACER
PSEUDOPLATANUS The fruit makes the belly soluble, but troubles it and gives little nourishment. Also known as the Great Maple and, in Scotland, the Plane Tree. It is a hardy, fast-growing tree reaching a height of 5o feet (15 m) or more in 50 years. The leaves are five-lobed, pointed at the ends and indented at the edges. It bears characteristic winged fruit following the appearance of the hanging racemes of flowers. The whole tree is full of juice. Where to find it: It grows wild in Europe, but is often planted near farmhouses for the protection it gives from winds. It is found in woods, hedges and gardens and at the roadside. Flowering time: Mid spring to early summer. Astrology: It is under the particular influence of Venus. Medicinat' virtues: The juice, or milk, is taken from the tree by piercing the bark, and dried. It is then made into troches and applied to tumours which it softens and dissolves. It also solders together the lips of fresh wounds. The fruit can be applied as a plaster to achieve the same effect. Modern uses: The juice has been used to make wine. Sugar is also obtainable from the sap by distillation. It is not used in medicine at the present time, but several related trees of the Maple family are of value. See Maple Tree. |