south Russia for experimental observation and study of the medicinal roots and rhizomes for expectorant influence in chronic bronchitis and long-established respiratory illness.
SENNA Cassia marilandica, L.( N. O.: Leguminosae)
Common Names: Wild Senna, Locust Plant. Features: Cassia is a genus of leguminous plants inhabiting the tropical parts of the world consisting of trees, shrubs, or herbs. American Senna is to be found from New England to Carolina, growing in rich soils.
The leaves have long petioles, ovate at base; each petiole has eight or ten leaflets, which are oblong, smooth, 1 – 2 in. long and quite narrow. The flowers are a bright yellow and the leaves are gathered while in bloom from June to September. The fruit is a legume, 2 – 4 in. long, and contains a quantity of thick pulp which is mildly laxative and cathartic and is used in the composition of the confection of Cassia and of Senna. It belongs to the sugar class of laxatives, its properties being due, for the most part, to the water-attracting properties of the sugar while in the intestinal canal. Medicinal Part: The leaves. Solvents: Water, alcohol. Bodily Influence: Laxative, Vermifuge, Cathartic. Uses: Senna sometimes causes griping effects. To modify this, combine Senna leaves with one of the aromatic herbs Ginger, Anise, Caraway, Fennel or Coriander. Can also be used in combination with Pink root( Spigelia marilandica). Should not be used in cases of inflammation of the stomach. Dose: Of the tincture, 1 – 2 tablespoonfuls. Of the powder, 10 – 20 grains. Of the infusion, ½ – 1 cupful steeped 30 min. Homoeopathic Clinical: Colic( flatulent) of infants, Exhaustion, Nitrogenous waste, Sleeplessness, Sneezing, with heat. Russian Experience: In Russia Senna leaves are known as Alexandre leaves, or Cassia. The species Cassia acutifolia grows in Russia, having the same properties as the American variety. Use: For treating conditions of constipations they prefer the buds with oils; this can be used repeatedly without side-effect. The leaves alone are rather harsh, so a compound of Cassia with similar herbs is recommended. India and Pakistan: Many varieties of Senna grow in India and Pakistan, one being Cassia angustifolia( Indian Senna). Uses: Their traditional use is not only as a laxative, but also for biliousness, gout and rheumatism, in the form of decoctions, infusions, powder and confections. Warning: it should not be administered for inflamatory conditions of the alimentary canal, fever, piles, menorrhagia, prolapse of the rectum and uterus or pregnancy. Externally: For skin diseases and pimples use a paste of the dried leaves made with vinegar.
SHEPHERD’ S PURSE Capsella bursa pastoris, Medik.( N. O.: Cruciferae)
Common Names: Mother’ s Heart, Pickoocker, Shepherd’ s Sprout, Case Wort. Features: This common herb of the mustard family( Cruciferae), found originally in Europe, is now