Heal All

Common Name: Heal-All, Prunella, All-Heal, Hook-Heal, Self Heal, Slough-Heal, Brunella, Heart of the Earth, Blue Curls, Carpenter-weed, Common Selfheal, Consolida Minor, Lance Selfheal, Sicklewort, Woundwort, Xia Ku Cao

Scientific Name: Prunella vulgaris

Origin: Europe

Range: Europe, Asia, Japan and the U. S….. Found growing in waste ground, grassland, woodland edges, usually on basic and neutral soils

Botanical Description: Vary in color from pinks and purples to while, bloom in the early and midsummer. Attractive perennial flower that acts as a well-behaved ground cover in the garden; will bloom for nearly 2 months.

Part Used: Flowers, leaves

What’s in a Name? It’s name is a description of what was felt for centuries to only be self discriptive

All in the family: Heal All is cousin to such choice delicacies as peppermint, oregano, rosemary and thyme

Harvest: Gather whole plant when flowers bloom, dry for later herb use. Leaves and small flowers are edible. Harvest the aerial parts of self-heal while it is in flower. This may have to be hand harvested with snips or scissors, as the plant is very low growing. May also have to rinse dust from the leaves after harvesting, as the plants can get quite dirty from rain splash.

Cultural Uses: Prunella Vulgaris, or Heal All Plant, has been used for over 500 years for all kinds of wounds, open sores, inflammation, sore throats and most any kind of skin ailment. A cold water infusion of the freshly chopped or dried and powdered leaves is a very tasty and refreshing beverage, weak infusion of the plant is an excellent medicinal eye wash for sties and pinkeye. It is taken internally as a medicinal tea in the treatment of fevers, diarrhoea, sore mouth and throat, internal bleeding, and weaknesses of the liver and heart. Clinical analysis shows it to have an antibacterial action, inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. coli, Mycobacterium tuberculi, which supports its use as an alternative medicine internally and externally as an antibiotic and for hard to heal wounds and diseases. It is showing promise in research for cancer, AIDS, diabetes, and many other maladies.

As the flower spikes resemble the throat, the herb was also used to treat inflammations of the mouth and throat. In Chinese medicine, the flower spikes are regarded as being very specific for the liver and gallbladder, cooling an over-heated liver condition, call “gan hao, or “liver fire,” from which the phrase “gung-ho” is thought to be derived. In western herbalism, leaves and young shoots applied to fresh wounds to stop bleeding and as first aid for clean cuts.

Medicinal Uses: The whole plant is medicinal as alterative, antibacterial, antipyretic, antiseptic, antispasmodic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, febrifuge, hypotensive, stomachic, styptic, tonic, vermifuge and vulnerary.

Food Uses: Edible, it is chewy and flavorless, so more to be eaten for nutrition than gastronomic delight. As a woodland grower, it affords good greens to people who hike far from cities. By all means, eat some leaves and fresh flowerheads if you have access to tender rank-growing specimens. It is good for you. Just add some pieces to sandwiches or salads.

Active Compounds: The plants most useful constituents are Betulinic-acid, D-Camphor, Delphinidin, Hyperoside, Manganese, Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid, Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and Tannins. Contains the anti-tumor and diuretic compound ursolic acid. Also rich in natural antioxidant compounds, containing more rosmarinic acid than Rosemary.

Research: Herpes- Research shows Prunella may lessen the severity and duration of outbreaks, however there is no proof that it will completely kill the virus in humans. Even if you don't have outbreaks, you can still spread Herpes to other people.

Recent research suggests the plant possesses antibiotic, hypotensive, and anti-mutagenic qualities. Contains the anti-tumor and diuretic compound ursolic acid. Also rich in natural antioxidant compounds, containing more rosmarinic acid than Rosemary.

In Lore, Legend and Life: Once proclaimed to be a Holy herb and thought to be sent by God to cure all ailments of man or beast, and said to drive away the devil, which lead to the belief that Heal-All was grown in the Witches garden as a disguise. The root was used to make a tea to drink in ceremonies before going hunting by one Native American tribe to sharpened the powers of observation.

Recipes: Medicinal tea or infusion: Add 1 oz. dried or fresh herb to a pint of boiling water, steep till cool, take in ½ cup doses, sweetened with honey, as a general strengthener

Pokeberry

Scientific Name: Phytolacca Americana

Common Name: Pokeweed, Pokeberry, Poke, Inkberry, Pigeonberry

Botanical Description: A large, smooth, branching herb from a large, perennial rootstock, and with green, red, or purple stems; leaves alternate and simple; flowers white, on a long stem, more or less erect; fruit a dark purple berry composed of 5-12 segments fused in a ring, the stem drooping. P. rigida differs by having shorter, erect fruiting stems
The berries are believed to be toxic to humans, but are eaten by birds. It is a native of northeastern North America where it is a common weed of disturbed, usually fertile, soils. The closely related Indian pokeberry, P. acinosa, is quite similar in appearance.

Range: Forest or natural areas, weedy in disturbed areas, in fields, fence rows, low grounds, clearings, waste places, roadsides.

Cultural Uses: The fresh and very young spring-time greens of the pokeberry were boiled, drained, and boiled again to make "poke salad" the traditional rural dish in the southern U.S. immortalized in the 1960's hit song "Poke Salad Annie". The plant is generally poisonous so this, and all other uses of this plant are not recommended without the guidance of a seasoned expert. This plant contains chemicals called the "pokeweed mitogens" that are being studied for use in treatments of autoimmune diseases including AIDS and rheumatoid arthritis. Mitogens are substances that promote cell division and may activate mitosis in animal cells that normally would not divide. Some lectins, e.g. those in pokeweed mitogens, can activate mitosis in white blood cells; it is this property that is of interest to AIDS researchers. Pokeweed is also being studied as an agent to combat fungal infections. The berries of the Indian pokeberry have been used for dye production.

Edible Parts: Young tender leaves eaten only as thoroughly cooked greens (in two waters). Cooked berries are safe for making pies. CAUTION: Berries, roots and mature plants are poisonous, therefore, only use as new, young growth. Also any red-tinged plant material should be discarded. To avoid possibly collecting part of the toxic root, do not cut below ground level.

Harvest: Only collect young shoots from areas you know have NOT been treated with pesticides. Collect in early spring. SAFE HANDLING PROCEDURES: Wash young shoots thoroughly with warm water. Do not use dish detergent or any type of sanitizer. These products can leave a residue. Peel and parboil tender young shoots (less than eight inches) in two changes of water several minutes each. Boil in a third water until tender and serve like asparagus. Young stalks less than one foot tall, with leaves removed, and before red tinged, can be cut and rolled in corn meal and fried like okra. They can also be pickled. Young leaves taken from stalks less than one foot tall can be parboiled in two changes of water for several minutes each and
boiled in a third water until tender. To freeze, parboil leaves twice, cook, pat dry and place them in plastic bags. (SOURCE: Larson, Ken. 1995. God's Free Harvest, Rhema Publishing, Inc., Suwanee, GA. 231 pp.)

Active Compounds: Toxic principle: Phytolaccatoxin and related triterpene saponins, an alkaloid (phytolaccin), and histamines.

Toxicity Rating: Low.

Animals Affected: All animals may potentially be affected.

Dangerous Parts of Plant: All parts, especially roots and seeds.

Class of Signs: Gastrointestinal irritation (colic, diarrhea which may be bloody). Rarely: anemia, possibly death. Birth defects and tumors may also be possible.

Animals do not voluntarily eat this plant unless there is no other forage available. If the animals are forced to eat pokeweed (especially if it has been incorporated into processed feeds), the primary signs relate to the irritant effects of the saponin toxins, in particular phytolaccigenin. Salivation, abdominal pain, diarrhea (which may become bloody) can be noted. Horses and ruminants do not exhibit vomiting, which is seen in humans, dogs, cats, and pigs. Signs usually resolve within a day or two. Only if large doses are consumed will the animal display more serious signs: anemia, alterations in the heart rate and in respiration, and in very rare cases, death.

Noted in the human literature but not well published in the veterinary literature is the mutagenic and teratogenic properties of pokeweed, that is the ability to induce mutations (and possibly cancer) and birth defects. For humans, even handling the plant is considered dangerous, so it would seem wise to not only prevent human contact with the plant, but animal contact as well. Despite this, the plant is eaten as a spring vegetable in the southern U.S. after cooking it first in several changes of water. Consumption of the plant is not advised.

First Aid: For gastrointestinal irritation, provide better feed and symptomatic care, and signs should abate in about 24 hours. Discard all feeds containing pokeweed, since the plant is never safe for consumption. For severely affected animals, or if it is known that a large amount was consumed, consult a veterinarian promptly for emergency care

Prevention: Pokeweed should be removed from pastures and barnyards. Exercise caution when doing so, since the plant is toxic to humans as well. Good pasture management, with mowing and weed removal, will suffice in keeping pokeweed under control.

Research: Used by Harry Hoxsey in a controversial cure for Cancer (in conjunction with other herbs). The formula is under long term study at the University of Texas School of Public Health. Early results are encouraging.

Silver Lupine

COMMON NAMES:Lupine, Bluebonnet, Quaker-Bonnets

LATIN NAME:Lupinus perennis (wild)
Lupinus polyphyllus (cultivated)
(pea family)

TOXICITY RATING: Low to moderate in Indiana. In the western rangelands, where lupine grows plentifully, the risk of toxicosis would be high. Different species of lupine have different toxicities. According to reports, L. leucophyllus (velvet or wooly-leafed lupine) is the most toxic and should never be grazed since all stages of plant growth are toxic.

ANIMALS AFFECTED: Sheep are primarily affected, but all animals are susceptible.

DANGEROUS PARTS OF PLANT: All parts, especially pods with seeds.

CLASS OF SIGNS: Breathing problems, behavioral changes, trembling, birth defects, coma, death.

PLANT DESCRIPTION: Lupines (fig. 6) are herbaceous perennials grown in gardens or found wild along roadsides, in fields, and in open woods. Wild lupines are common only in the prairie and lake counties of Indiana. In the rangelands of the West, they are a leading cause of livestock poisoning. Several stems often grow from one creeping root and reach 12 to 30 inches in height. The leaves are alternate and pal-
mately compound with 7 to 11 spear-tip-shaped, softly hairy segments. Elongate spikes of blue, purple, white, magenta, or bicolored pea-like flowers in early summer are followed by 1- to 2-inch, fuzzy, pea-like pods.

SIGNS: Toxicity in lupine is believed to result primarily from the alkaloid D-lupanine. The signs of lupine poisoning can develop within an hour or may take as long as a day. The signs are related to the nervous system and resemble the signs seen with excessive consumption of nicotine (tobacco): twitching, nervousness, depression, difficulty in moving and breathing, and loss of muscular control. If large quantities were consumed, convulsions, coma, and death by respiratory paralysis may occur. In cows that graze lupine, skeletal birth defects in calves can occur, and the syndrome is called "crooked calf".

FIRST AID: There is no antidote. Allow affected livestock to rest quietly, especially if they are unfamiliar with human contact. Handling, trailering, or other stress on the animals after they have been grazing lupine will make the signs worse and can increase losses.

SAFETY IN PREPARED FEEDS: The alkaloids in lupine remain after the plants have dried, so prepared feeds are unsafe for consumption, especially if the feeds contain lupine seed pods.

PREVENTION: Do not allow hungry animals access to lupine, particularly when in the seed stage, if other forage is not available. If lupines are prevalent in the pasture, become familiar with the particular species, since toxicities vary. Do not handle, process, or ship animals that are heavily grazing lupine since this type of stress will increase the number of animals that will become sick and/or die. Livestock can graze lupine without incident as long as excessive ingestion is avoided and animals are not handled or trailered while on lupine pastures (and if the animals are not pregnant). In cattle, to avoid birth defects, do not allow grazing between days 40 and 70 of gestation.

Chicory

Scientific Name: Cichorium intybus

Common Name: chicory

Range: throughout the United States; found along roadsides, in field borders, in waste lands and barren meadows

Origin: chicory is native to Europe and temperate regions in Asia; it has been naturalized to the United States.

Botanical description: Chicory has a long fleshy root filled with a milky sap, much like that of its sister dandelion. Leaves form a basal rosette along the ground with a tough branched stem that is hard to break. Upper leaves are small and insignificant; lower leaves are large and toothed. The flowers are usually blue, although on some rare occasions they are white or pink. They are ray flowers with fringed edges and are about 1½ inches in diameter. They face toward the rising sun in the morning and by afternoon are faded and withered, to be replaced by a new set of flowers the next morning. Chicory is easily recognizable during its flowering season by the daisy-like blue flowers that seem to be in constant supply; when the flower is gone, the leaves and arrangement do resemble dandelion but are distinguishable because they have tiny hairs on them, while dandelion leaves are hairless.

What’s in a name: The origin of chicory’s name is uncertain, but it is suggested that an alternate name for the plant, succory, comes from the Latin word succorrere, meaning to run under, for the length and depth of chicory’s root. It is also suggested that the name may be a corruption of the Egyptian word Ctchorium (meaning unavailable). The species name of chicory, intybus, is derived from another name for the plant, Hendibeh, which is a name also used for endive, the only other member of the genus Cichorium.

All in the family: Chicory is a member of the composite family, a large group of wildflowers that includes dandelions, purple coneflower, daisies, and endive.

Cultural uses: Traditionally, chicory juice was used as part of a remedy for headaches. The Romans used chicory as a vegetable or in salads. The root was ground and used as a caffeine-free coffee substitute. It is still used that way today, and is the special ingredient in Luzianne coffee, a mellow blend of coffee and chicory that is sold in Louisiana.
A tea made from the flowers and leaves is good for the liver and gall bladder, and is used to treat jaudice, dyspepsia, loss of appetite and mild laxative, especially good for children. Chicory is also taken for gout and rheumatic conditions.

Active compounds: inulin, sesquiterpene lactones, vitamins, minerals, fat, mannitol and latex

Research: An article in the Journal of Nutrition examined the effect of chicory inulin in a variety of disorders. The results were favorable for the effectiveness of inulin in reducing risk of heart disease, treating gastrointestinal distress, elevating immune functions, facilitating the metabolism of lipids and reduction of risk of colonic carcinogenesis. Other research confirmed the cardioactivity of chicory in frog hearts in vitro, ascribing to the plant a digitalis-like property. This study has not been carried out in humans. It has also been shown to have anti-inflammatory activity in rats, but this also has not been tested in humans. Like many other herbs, chicory must be more thoroughly tested.

In lore, legend and life: Chicory is known as the blue sailor weed in some countries, based on a legend about a young woman who fell in love with a sailor. The sailor left her for his true love, the sea, and the young woman was left alone. The gods took pity on her and turned her into the beautiful blue flower we know as chicory

Echinacea

Scientific Name: Ecinachea purpurea

Common Name: purple coneflower

Range: Most of the eastern United States; another similar species of the flower is found in Western states with similar medicinal and cultural uses; found in open woods, thickets, fields, and meadows.

Origin: Purple coneflower is native to Eastern and Central United States

Botanical description: Purple coneflower is a 2-3 foot perennial with large, daisy-like flowers with swept back reddish-purple rays. The center disk of the flower is cone shaped, large and orange-brown in color. The leaves are low on the flower stem, long and tapering with a rough-toothed edge. The flower is unmistakable; it resembles a black-eyed susan dipped in raspberry juice. When not flowering, the plant is somewhat harder to identify.

What’s in a name: Purple coneflower’s genus name, Ecinachea, is derived from the Greek word for hedgehog, which was inspired by the appearance of the central cone.

All in the family: Purple coneflower is a member of the Compositae family, the composites, which includes the daisy-like flowers, dandelions, chicory, and a host of other Echinachea species that are also used medicinally.

Cultural uses: Purple coneflower has a long history of medicinal use. Native Americans used it as an antidote for snake bit and other venomous bites and stings. It was also used in a smoke treatment for headaches. Purple coneflower was used to calm toothaches and sore gums, and tea form it was drunk to treat colds, mumps, arthritis, and a blood purifier (often a euphemism for the treatment of venereal diseases). Further, it was used as a treatment for pain, indigestion, tumors, malaria and hemorrhoids. After a long period of disregard, purple coneflower has come back into vogue in recent years. It is used primarily as an immune-system booster and it has been used as a treatment for skin diseases such as eczema and psoriasis, boils and wounds, burns, cold sores and genital herpes. It is also recommended for use to treat bronchitis, tonsillitis, meningitis, tuberculosis, abscesses, whooping cough, arthritis and ear infections.

Active compounds: alkamides, caffeic acid esters, polysaccharides, volatile oil, echinolone, and betaine

Research: Research has yet to determine what exact compounds in purple coneflower give it its medicinal properties. Early research with purple coneflower and its relatives were done with adulterated or misidentified samples, so results of those tests are unreliable. Although clinical trials have been poorly designed, animal and test tube studies have shown that purple coneflower extracts do fight certain viruses and appear to stimulate the immune system to ward off bacterial infection. Some animal studies have shown that purple coneflower promotes phagocytosis, but the results are not conclusive. Laboratory findings have shown that purple coneflower is effective in healing superficial wounds. More study must be done before any clear recommendations about the use of purple coneflower can be made.
In lore, legend and life: No particular stories ascribed to purple coneflowers could be located.

Common Plantain

Scientific Name: Plantago major

Common Name: common plantain

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, pastures, meadows, cracks in sidewalks, waste places and disturbed habitats

Origin: native of Europe and temperate parts of Asia

Botanical description: The common plantain has broad, irregularly rounded to oval leaves, 1-6 inches in length that form a basal rosette that is prostrate to the ground. The leaves have smooth, wavy, or toothed edges; 3 – 11 parallel veins run their length and are large and noticeable. A tall spike of inconspicuous flowers, then tiny seeds cover the central flower stalk, which stands erect from the center of the basal rosette and can be 3 – 12 inches tall. This spike of seeds easily identifies common plantain. The round, prominently veined leaves are readily found during all seasons. Plantain is so common in grassy areas that it is likely to be overlooked.

What’s in a name: Plantain’s common name comes from the Latin word planta, which means sole (as in sole of a shoe). Native Americans associated the plant with the Europeans, who seemed to leave a trail of the alien weed wherever they went, and called it “white man’s foot”.

All in the family: Common plantain is in the same family as Plantago psyllium, the plant whose mucilaginous fiber is the active ingredient in Metamucil and other bulk fiber/laxative products.

Cultural uses: In Gaelic, plantain is known as the “healing herb” because it was used in Ireland to treat wounds and bruises. Plantain was hailed by Pliny as a cure for the “madness of dogs”, and Erasmus claimed it to be an antidote for spider bite toxins. It was also said that if someone was bitten by a mad dog, rubbing plantain on the bite would heal it. Native Americans used it as an antidote to snakebite venom by rubbing its juices on the wound. It was listed as one of the nine sacred herbs in Anglo-Saxon medicine because of its healing powers. It was used as a cure for disorders of the kidney, a remedy for worms, a diuretic, and a cure for hemorrhoids, as well as a laxative.
Current use of plantain is the commercially significant extraction of its mucilage – a carbohydrate fiber that is used in gentle laxatives. Ironically, plantain infusions can be used to halt diarrhea. Mucilage also acts as an appetite suppressant and reduces intestinal absorption of fat and bile. It reduces LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the blood. Plantain is commonly used as an astringent; its juice, when rubbed on an insect bite or bee sting, immediately sooths the area and begin the healing process. Plantain may also stop poison ivy from blistering and itching if applied to the skin immediately after contact. Plantain is still considered a diuretic; in addition, it is used as an expectorant and decongestant. It is also thought to sooth the throat and is taken to relieve laryngitis. Finally, when chewed, plantain acts as a breath freshener. If eaten early enough in the spring, plantain leaves are said to make a tasty cooked vegetable dish.

Active compounds: beta carotene, mucilage, calcium, monoterpene alkaloids, glycosides, sugars, triterpenes, linoleic acid, iridoids, and tannins.

Research: Clinical studies have verified plantain’s astringent properties; research has been conducted into the possible connection between allergic responses and the inhalation or ingestion of psyllium (see Arlian, Vyszenski-Moher, Lawrence, Schrotel, Ritz; 1992).

In lore, legend and life: Shakespeare referred to plantain in Romeo and Juliet as a cure for a broken shin; he also spoke of it as cure for sores. Chaucer also made reference to the healing powers of plantain.
Native Americans carried a small bag of powdered plantain root as a charm against snakebite.
Unscrupulous herbalists long ago removed a portion of plantain seeds from the recipe for a salve and planted them instead; the patient then had to return to the herbalist for another dose of the medicine.
Plantain, like dandelion, is a ubiquitous weed that vexes all who wish for a perfect lawn. Left to its own device, plantain can quickly overtake any grassy area.

White Clover

Scientific Name: Trifolium repens

Common Name: white clover

Range: throughout United States, except Great Plains and extreme South; found in lawns, fields, roadsides, and disturbed habitats

Origin: native to Eastern Mediterranean and Asia

Botanical description: White clover is a perennial plant with alternate compound leaves found in threes. The dark green leaves often have a white “V” or crescent in their center.
The flowers are white, sometimes tinged with pink, and are actually dense groups of individual red clover by this close to the ground growth pattern and, of course, the white flowers when flowerettes arranged in a round head. The plant grows close to the ground and is notorious for its ability to creep, or spread, by the use of stolons. White clover is most easily distinguished from blooming. Red clover plants often have larger leaves than those of white clover.

What’s in a name: Like red clover, white clover’s genus name, Trifolium, means “three leaves”, and its species name, repens, means “to creep”.

All in the family: White clover is a member of the Leguminosae family, which includes red clover and other plants such as peas, beans and peanuts that are nitrogen fixers (see description in red clover information sheet).

Cultural uses: White clover blossoms were used in folk medicine against gout, rheumatism, and leucorrhea. It was also believed that the texture of fingernails and toenails would improve after drinking clover blossom tea. Native Americans used whole clover plants in salads, and made a white clover leaf tea for coughs and colds. White clover is thought to clean the system, decreasing irritation and muscular activity of the gastrointestinal tract. It is also used to decrease the activity of the central nervous system. Like red clover, it was thought to give anyone who carried its leaves the ability to detect witches, sorcerers and good fairies in his presence. It also was seen as representing the Trinity by Christians.

Active compounds: The active compounds of the white clover are unknown.

Research: none found

Red Clover

Scientific name: Trifolium pratense

Common name: red clover

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, on roadsides, in fields and in other disturbed habitats.

Origin: native to the Eastern Mediterranean and Asia; naturalized to the United States

Botanical description: Red clover grows up to 16 inches, with a hairy upright stem. The leaves are made up of three (and sometimes, the lucky four!) oval leaflets with a prominent white “V” mark in the center, called a chevron. The flowers are purple to pink and are egg-shaped. Red clover are found in fields and grassy areas and are readily identified by the three part leaves, the white V in the center of each leaf, and the distinctive purple-pink flower. Without the flower, the key to differentiating red from white clover is the V mark on the leaves, present in the red clover but absent in the white.
Also, leaves of white clover are all on stems that originate from the base of a central stem; red clover leaves spring from both the base of the central stem and above.

What’s in a name: The genus name Trifolium means “three leaves”, which is characteristic not only of red but also of white clovers.

All in the family: Red clover is a member of the Leguminosae, or pea family. Other members of the family include not only peas, but beans and peanuts. These are a group of plants that are able to take nitrogen from the atmosphere and “fix” it, or make it biologically available to other plants. Nitrogen fixation is of critical importance in protein production in plants and makes the legumes a critical player in agricultural planning.

Cultural uses: Historically, tea made of the red clover flower has been used as an antispasmodic, expectorant, a mild sedative, and a blood purifier; additionally, the tea has been used for asthma, bronchitis and respiratory spasms. A wash made from the flowers is used as a topical remedy for cancer; the belief was that a concentrated decoction applied to the site of the tumor would draw it out and clear it from the body. Red clover was also used for athlete’s foot, sores, burns and skin ulcers. The flowers were also smoked in “anti-asthma” cigarettes. Today, red clover flowers are made into a wine as well as the previously described tea; they are also used to treat coughs and respiratory spasms. Estrogens in red clover may be useful in treating menstrual problems. Native Americans have been known to eat red clover in salads, and dried flowers can be dried and turned into flour that can be used in breads, muffins or pancakes. Use of red clover as an anti-AIDS and anti-diabetic medicine has been suggested.

Active compounds: flavenoids, phenolic acids (including salicylic acid), volatile oils such as methyl salicylate and benzyl alcohol, sitosterol, fatty acids, tannin and starch

Research: Studies are being done in the use of red clover for combating AIDS, diabetes and the increased cardiovascular risk associated with menopause.

In lore, legend and life: Red clover is the state flower of Vermont.
The V or crescent markings on the leaves of the red clover were once believed to be a sign that the plant would be useful in curing cataracts (in accordance with the Doctrine of Signatures, which was a belief that a plant’s appearance indicated the ills it would cure).

In ancient times, the red clover was believed to bring good luck in gaming as well as in living.
It was believed that whoever carried a three-leaf clover with him would be able to detect witches, sorcerers and good fairies around him.

Christianity believed the three-leaf clover to be a symbol of the Trinity, so the plans of churches and church windows are designed around a cloverleaf.

A favorite activity of children is to pull the individual blossoms out of the red clover flower head and suck the nectar out of the ends

Queen Anne's Lace

Scientific Name: Daucuscarota

Common Name: Queen Anne’s Lace, wild carrot

Range: throughout the United States; found in fields, meadows, waste places, roadsides, fence rows, and disturbed habitats

Origin: native to Europe

Botanical description: Queen Anne’s Lace has feathery, finely divided leaves and a stem that rise 2-4 feet tall. The showy white flower is shaped like an umbrella and is made up of many small flowers in a lace-like pattern. At the center is a purplish-black floret. The root of Queen Anne’s Lace is thick and resembles a carrot. When in bloom, Queen Anne’s Lace looks like no other flower; without the showy white umbrella of florets, the leaves of the plant look like those of the domestic carrot and a pair of deadly relatives, poison hemlock and fool’s parsley.

What’s in a name: The word carrot is Celtic and means red of color; the species name, Daucus, comes from the Greek word dais, which means to burn, signifying Queen Anne’s Lace’s pungent and stimulating qualities

All in the family: Queen Anne’s Lace is a member of the Apiaceae, or parsley, family. It is the ancestor of the domestic carrot, and is related to parsley, and the aforementioned poison hemlock and fool’s parsley.

Cultural uses: Traditionally, tea made from the root of Queen Anne’s Lace has been used as diuretic to prevent and eliminate kidney stones, and to rid individuals of worms. Its seeds have been used for centuries as a contraceptive; they were prescribed by physicians as an abortifacient, a sort of “morning after” pill. The seeds have also been used as a remedy for hangovers, and the leaves and seeds are both used to settle the gastrointestinal system. It is still used by some women today as a contraceptive; a teaspoon of seeds are thoroughly chewed, swallowed and washed down with water or juice starting just before ovulation, during ovulation, and for one week thereafter. Grated wild carrot can be used for healing external wounds and internal ulcers. The thick sap is used as a remedy for cough and congestion. The root of Queen Anne’s Lace can be eaten as a vegetable or in soup.

Active compounds: Queen Anne’s Lace contains flavonoids, essential oils, vitamins B and C, pectin, lecithin, glutamine, phosphatide and cartotin, a vitamin A precursor

Research: Chinese research has confirmed the function of Queen Anne’s Lace seeds as an abortifacient; other research has shown the plant to be a bactericidal, a diuretic, a hypotensive, and an effective treatment for parasites.

In lore, legend and life: Queen Anne’s Lace is said to have been named after Queen Anne of England, an expert lace maker. When she pricked her finger with a needle, a single drop of blood fell into the lace, thus the dark purple floret in the center of the flower.

Disaster Preparedness -- Take Your Companion Animals With You

Storm Warning! Emergency Preparedness

Everyone has been informed of the necessity of being prepared for an emergency evacuation. Very frequently the animals you are closest to are forgotten or left behind. We have all seen on TV reports in flood areas of rescue workers saving a dog from the roof of a submerged house. There is one easy solution to these and worse tragedies...TAKE YOUR PET WITH YOU!
With careful preplanning and preparation there is no need for animals to be lost or injured due to a hurricane, flashflood or anything else that may arise that you need to get the “family” to safety.

My children were always taught the necessity of being prepared no matter what the crisis (they grew up near 3-mile Island in Pennsylvania)….they carry backpacks with extra clothes, first aid kits, potable water and emergency rations of food in the trunks of their cars. They have also been taught that their companion animals are their children and should be planned for also.
So when the situation arises, everything is ready…..people, animals and supplies, all
set to go. Get in the car and leave before the situation turns deadly, go when life is easily spared.

Preplanning

Preplanning includes getting your supplies and your family ready for any emergency. Have a predesignated meeting place in or near your home. Just remember to have someone remember the dog, cat, bird, etc. They do not understand the words as children do.
Preplanning also includes having a place to go, contacts numbers set up outside of your area that anyone can call and reconnect with you if separated.

Preplanning also includes being ready for any type of emergency….injuries included to people or animal family members!

What to Take:

When you leave home plan for 1 weeks stay away. The following is a suggested list of items to have together and ready for an evacuation situation.

Medications
Medical records
First Aid Kite
Food & Water in sealed
containers
Bowls
First aide kit
Bedding
Litter and box
Leash
Collar and tags
Grooming supplies
Current pet photo (in case pet gets lost
A favorite toy or two
(esp. for cats) a sturdy well ventilated carrier

Where to Go

There are literally NO human emergency shelters which allow you to take your pets into the shelter with you, unless they are work animals (I.e. seeing eye dogs.) So the question arises HOW do you take the pet with you...preplanning!

Call now to find out which motels outside your area allow pets in their rooms, keep a list near the phone for easy access. When the situation arises, call and reserve a room early.
Another option is to set up with a family member or friend outside of your area that would allow you to come and stay with them during the crises, knowing that that would mean pets and all!
Find camping areas that allow your pets to come with, if you are fortunate enough to have an RV this should be simple! Post these numbers by the phone also so that reservations may be made as early as possible!

First Aide

Before worry over injuries prepare the pets with constant health maintenance, such as keeping all vaccines current, flea control and heartworm prevention monthly.

In preparing for an emergency evacuation it is wise to have the training and knowledge to handle any situation. A good early step in being ready is to take the Red Cross First Aid Course for animals. There they will teach you how to handle basic first aid procedures and animal CPR.

The next step is to have a basic first aid kit. Below is a list of first aide supplies to have in a water proof container to carry with you:

Latex gloves
Gauze sponges a variety of sizes, both large and small Roll gauze, 2 inch
Roll bandages, such as gauze wrap that stretches and clings to itself
Material to make a splint ( pieces of wood, news paper or magazines
Adhesive tape, hypo-allergenic
Non-adherent sterile pads
Small scissors (bandage)
Grooming clippers or a safety razor
Nylon leash
Towel
Muzzle
Compact thermal blanket
Pediatric rectal thermometer
Water based sterile lubricant
Hydrogen peroxide
Rubbing alcohol
Topical antibiotic ointment
Epsom salts
Baby dose syringe or non-glass eye dropper
Sterile eye lubricant
Sterile saline eye wash
Glucose paste or kayro corn syrup
Styptic powder or pencil
Expired credit card to scrape away stingers
petroleum jelly
penlight
clean cloth
needle-nosed pliers
A list of emergency numbers
Pet’s vet
24 hr ER Vet Hospital
National Animal Poison Control Center 1-800- 548-2423 or 1-900-680- 0000

Going Home

After an evacuation the return home can be just as traumatic. Prepare for it in advance also. Make sure that the authorities have cleared the area for entering, do a dry run home before moving back in and let others know of your plans to go and check everything out before you leave your evacuation place.

When you return home, Proceed with Caution, check out the area around your home and property for any hazards before allowing pets to enter, run and explore. A downed tree can be hiding live electrical lines; weakened floor boards can lead to a nasty fall; etc.

Check your food and water supply to make sure there are no contaminations.
Walk pets on a leash until all hazards are removed and the animal is reoriented to the area. Also until all repairs to home, fences, etc can be accomplished.

Disaster Preparedness - First Aide

When preparing for a disaster one must think about the safety of the family. Injuries and sickness do occur, especially during time of emergency.

The best way to handle any emergency is thorough preperation. Take the time to contact The Red Cross in your area and take their first aide, advanced first aide and CPR classes. In fact every person, including children, should take these classes. Also purchase a good first aide book.....Red Cross also offers these.

You will need a first aide kit. The following items are suggestions only:

MEDICATIONS

· Antibiotic Ointment
· Medications For All Family Members
· Aspirin and/or Pain Relief Medication
· Diarrhea Medication
· Eye Drops
· Cold/Cough Medicine
· Benadryl
· Insect Spray
· Ear and Nose Drops
· Hydrogen Peroxide
· Skin Disinfectant Spray
· Extra Prescription Medication
· Old Pair Of Prescription Eyeglasses For Spare

MEDICAL MATERIALS

· Band-aids
· Medical Latex Gloves
· Surgical Mask
· Instant Cold Packs
· Instant Hot Packs
· Ace Bandages
· Butterfly Bandages
· Gauze Pads
· Cotton Swabs
· Adhesive Tape
· 2" & 4" Wide Sterile Bandage Rolls
· Triangular Bandage For Sling, Etc. (37" x 37" x 52")
· Tongue Depressors (Pop-sickle Sticks)
· Splint Material Spray Bottle With 10% Bleach Solution For Disinfecting Objects

Remember that this list is a suggestion only....every family is different, with different needs, allow for this, plan for this

Dandelion

Scientific Name: Taraxacum officinale

Common Name: common dandelion

Range: throughout the United States; found in lawns, fields and meadows, along roadsides, cracks of sidewalks, and disturbed habitats.

Origin: Native of Europe and Asia

Botanical description: The common dandelion is a perennial, herbaceous plant with long, lance-shaped leaves that are deeply toothed. The leaves are 3 to 12 inches long and grow from a basal rosette. It has yellow composite flowers that are 1-2 inches wide and grow individually on hollow, purplish stalks 2 to 18 inches tall. Each flower head is made up of hundreds of tiny rays. Familiar to most viewers is the white, globular “seed head”.

The dandelion has a thick, highly branched taproot. All parts of the plant contain a sticky, milky white sap.

Dandelions are generally easily recognizable in all seasons. The growth of leaves from the basal rosette, the leaf shape with its characteristic multi-toothed edges (although some dandelions exhibit less toothiness and a smoother, broader leaf – these are generally found in shady areas) is easy to spot even in winter. If unsure, break a stem or leaf and the characteristic milky sap will emerge. When in bloom, dandelions are bright yellow and hard to miss.

What’s in a name: The genus name of the dandelion comes from the Greek word taraxos, which means disorder, and akos, which means remedy. The species name, officinale, means that it is used medicinally. The common name may come from the Greek word leontodon, which means lion’s tooth. Other sources claim the word dandelion comes from the old French word Dent-de-lion or from the Latin dens leonis, both also meaning lion’s tooth or teeth.

All in the family: The common dandelion is a member of the Composite family, with relatives including Ecinachea (purple coneflower), chicory and other daisy-like flowers.
Cultural uses: Various Native American groups used dandelions for food, a dermatological aid, a gastrointestinal aid, a cure for sore throats, an analgesic, a blood purifier, a sedative, a laxative, an emetic, a love potion, and a general tonic for good health. The first use of the dandelion as a medicine was by Arabian physicians in the 10th and 11th centuries. References to the use of dandelion as a medicine was also found writings of physicians in Wales in the 13th century.
Today, dandelions are still used as food; many enjoy the dandelion leaves boiled like spinach or mixed in salads. Baby dandelion leaves are often found in haute cuisine. The root, when dried, has been used in coffee substitutes. But it is as a medicine that dandelion continues to shine. Dandelion leaves are used as a diuretic, but an unconventional one. While most diuretic preparations leach potassium from the body, dandelion leaves provide an abundant source of potassium. Leaves are also used to treat high blood pressure because of their ability to reduce the volume of fluid in the body. Dandelion root has been shown to stimulate bile production by the liver and is used to cleanse the liver. The root is also a gentle laxative. It is considered one of the most effective detoxifying herbs. It works on the liver, the kidneys and the gallbladder to accelerate the removal of toxins from the body. It also is used to relieve constipation, skin problems such as eczema and psoriasis, to prevent and possibly dissolve gallstones, and to treat osteoarthritis and gout. Parts of the dandelion may be consumed in a tea, a wine, an extract or tincture, or in combination with other medicinal herbs and flavorings in a reduced broth.

Active compounds: sesquiterpene lactones, triterpenes, vitamins A,B,C,D, coumarins, carotenoids, potassium and other minerals, taraxacoside, and phenolic acids

Research: Various clinical studies have demonstrated the legitimate use of dandelion as a diuretic, a bile production stimulant, a mild laxative, and an excellent source of potassium. Other studies have been only mildly indicative of any medicinal properties of dandelion, and those have been done in mice and rodents.

In lore, legend and life: Dandelions were actually brought to the United States from Europe to provide food for honeybees; now they grow wild worldwide and are more difficult to exterminate than almost any other weed.

Dandelions are used to make an herbal beer in England and Canada. Children use dandelion seed heads to make wishes by blowing the seeds away from the receptacle on which they are held.

Dandelion pollen causes severe allergic reactions in people who are sensitive to other pollens such as ragweed.

Young dandelion buds can be fried in butter and eaten; enthusiasts claim they taste like mushrooms.

Dandelions have been called “piss-a-beds” because of their strong diuretic properties.