Its been so warm lately so a couple of weeks ago I dug some more roots out of the garden. It was a little tricky because the ground was wet, the soil is clay and it can be a little messy.
Valerian is one of my favorite plants for sleep. If this plant works for you it is a blessing because so many people have a hard time sleeping. It is not for everybody though. Some people have a opposite reaction, it makes them jumpy and wired. People have told me that it is too sedative for them but most of the people who use it for sleeping are very grateful for its attributes of rest and relaxation.
My other all time favorite plant for sleeping is Passionflower, although I have tried to grow it in my garden , it is hard to grow so far up north. I could get it to grow but it never flowered for me so I grew it in pots instead.
I use several valerian preparations: tinctures, dried root for tea ( although it is a root, do not simmer it, just treat it as a leaf) and powdered. Sometimes I put the powder in capsules.
Burdock root was called a “blood purifier” plant, or in today’s language a “detoxifying plant. There is a common perception today that we all need detoxification. Some people take this to an extreme level. Regardless, the first year burdock root (burdock is a biannual) helps move unwanted substances through the body and works very well when combined with dandelion root and milk thistle seed. I like to make a herbal powder combining all those plants. It is a good liver tonic.
Marshmallow root works as a demulcent. It is soothing to the mucous membranes of the body, the lungs and the digestive systems benefit from using this herb. A simple decoction of marshmallow root and licorice make a soothing tonic for the respiratory system.
Dandelion roots work as a tonic to the liver, helping the liver do its job of cleaning the blood. The leaves are a very effective diuretic. This plant is an example of the different actions of the different parts of the plant. Needless to say it is a common plant and it is ironic that people go to such lengths to eradicate it from their lawns, putting poisonous chemicals on it in their quest for the perfect looking lawn.
Solomon seal roots are know for their tonic action on the joints. The roots look like joints. The roots are a visible example of the doctrine of signatures which states that a plant resembles the part of the body that it can heal. Solomon seal powder is included in many animal herbal recipes. The oil of the root helps alleviate aches and pains of joints when applied externally.
Comfrey has become a controversial plant. It has been used forever for skin conditions. I use it externally to make a superb skin oil. I prefer the roots rather than the leaves for making oil, although both parts of the plant make excellent oil. It is used in biodynamic gardening.
The first year roots of the teasel plant are being used to treat Lyme disease. It has helped many who have used it. It is the first year plant roots that are being used. Preparations include using the roots to make a tea or decoction or using the tincture.
