and May followed by a cluster of many seeded pods; the brightest yellow flowers should be collected when in bloom and dried thoroughly, as they will putrefy if moisture is present. Medicinal Parts: Flowers, leaves( less valued). Solvent: Water. Bodily Influence: Sedative, Antispasmodic. Uses: The Greeks called Cowslip“ Paralysis”, for the embracing strength given to the brain and central nervous system. For various infirmities such as heat waves of the head, vertigo, false apprehension, frenzy, epilepsy, convulsions, cramps, trembling, palsy, articular diseases of any name with violent pains, a daily drink of Cowslip tea will gradually make the symptoms disappear. Culpeper used the root to ease pains in the back and bladder, and to open the passage of the urine. Externally: The leaves( some say both, leaves and flowers) are made into an ointment by extracting the juice and mixing with linseed oil or coconut oil, for skin conditions of scaldings, or burns by fire, water or sun. As a beauty aid the ointment will nourish the skin, softening wrinkles, lightening freckles and discolorations, if applied faithfully. Homoeopathic Clinical: Tincture of entire fresh plant— Apoplexy( threatened), Eczema, Fevers, Migraine, Neuralgia, Vertigo, Voice( affections of).
COWSLIP Primula officinalis, Hill( Medicina, Moscow, 1965)
Russian Experience: Pervo-Tzvet, First Flower of Spring, a joy in its beauty and fragrance, is one of nature’ s signs of the fresh and alive unfolding beauty of the countryside, with many unsuspecting treasures, some of which are yet untold. The fresh leaves are used in spring salads, giving a pleasant aroma and sweet taste. The flowers are an export item and widely used abroad. Powder for Avitaminosis( deficiency of vitamins) as it is rich in Vitamin C and carotin. Folk Medicine: The importance as a home medicine for colds was known and employed as Diaphoretic, Expectorant, Diuretic and Antispasmodic. Used equally with Senega root( Polygala senega) for Bronchitis and respiratory trouble. Leaves: As a vitamin source are used as tea and food. Root and Rhizome: Medicinal for Bronchitis, etc. Clinically: Used as an extract or powder with other herbs, or separately, without toxic accumulation, as a mild laxative, stomach tonic, stimulant, vitamin builder to regenerate the blood.
CRAMPBARK, HIGH Viburnum opulus, L.( N. O.: Caprifoliaceae)
Common Names: High Cranberry, Snowball Tree, Guelder Rose, Squaw Bush, Cramp Bark.