many families. Besides its use as a hot seasoning it is always handy as Nastoika in vodka( one or two pods in a bottle of vodka). They drink this decoction in wineglassful amounts by those tolerant of the kick of vodka spiked with the hot peretz. Uses: Diaphoretic for colds, Appetiser, Rheumatism, and stomach disorders. Externally: Nastoika is used as a poultice and liniment with other compounds. Clinically: There is a warning that dose should not exceed 1 – 2 grains at a time, as it can produce a burning sensation in the stomach and disorders, with undesirable effect on the heart. The oil is clinically used; powder most always in composition with other herbals.
CASCARA SAGRADA Rhamnus purshiana, D. C.( N. O.: Rhamnaceae)
Common Names: Sacred Bark, Chittem Bark, Persian Bark. Features: The flowering Cascara can be found in North Idaho, and west to the Pacific, Northern California. This is a species of the California Buckthorn, also known as Sacred bark. The small tree, Cascara sagrada, has dull green leaves, with black fruit, three lobed seeds and purplish-brown bark, changing to dark brown with age.
The bark should be obtained from the young trunk and large branches in the springtime, as taken from other parts and out of season it will have a different taste and characteristics. Age at least one year before using. Medicinal Part: The aged, dried bark. Solvents: Diluted alcohol and boiling water. Bodily Influence: Laxative, Bitter tonic. Uses: This plant has had early recognition from the Indians and has gained a mutual consummate as a tasteful Cascara cordial prepared by the Parke Davis Co.
A thoroughly established agent for habitual constipation, dyspepsia, indigestion and haemorrhoids. 1 oz. of the fluid extract in 8 oz. of syrup of Yellow dock( Rumex crispus) makes an excellent preparation for engorged liver and blood disorders with constipation. As a laxative 1 teaspoonful of the fluid extract at bedtime. Of the tincture, 40 – 60 drops with water, morning and evening, according to the individual. Homoeopathic Clinical: Extract of bark used in constipation and rheumatism. Russian Experience: Cascara sagrada in Russia is known as Krushina or Joster. It grows in Siberia, Kozahstan and central Russia. Uses: Folk Medicine first used the leaf or berry extract in herbal combinations as a laxative. Clinical use soon followed.
CASTOR BEAN Oleum ricini, L.( N. O.: Euphorbiaceae)
Common Names: Castor Oil, Palma Christe( from supposed shape of leaves resembling Christ’ s hand). Features: The variety is variable as to continent and conditions. In the United States the hollow stems are high with purplish bloom above, bearing bluish-green leaves which are one or two feet broad; flowers in July; capsule expelling the various tinted, shining bean. The plant is decorative and is