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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for the efficacy of any herb nor for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Additionally, some of these plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals who have the means to process them properly into appropriate pharmaceuticals. One final note: many plants were used for a wide range of illnesses in the past, but be aware that many of the historical uses have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.



PEONY
(Paeonia officinalis)
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CAUTION! All parts of the plant are TOXIC, particularly the flowers! A tea made from the petals can be fatal!

PROPAGATION: By division in fall. Spread the roots so the eyes are covered with just 2 inches of soil; sprinkle a handful of bonemeal or fertilizer into the planting holes.
NEEDS: Full sun to partial shade and rich moisture-retentive soil.
HARVEST: The faded blooms for craft projects.

USES

CRAFT:
(Although beads can be made from the petals, please remember the plant is toxic and observe common sense precautions! You might wish to try rose beads as a safer alternative.)
After the blooms have begun to fade, make beads from the petals.
Grind them in a food grinder every day for 4 days, always storing them in the refrigerator (please label!); there will eventually be a black, fragrant mixture about the texture of mud; shape into any size bead desired; stick onto a straight pin to make the center hole and pin bead to cardboard, foam, etc.; can be left rough or sanded smooth; makes fragrant beads for jewelry, rosaries or other craft ideas.


©2001 by Ernestina Parziale, CH

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