Herb Library
| Earthnotes Herb Library |
| Back to Herb Menu Back to Index |
| 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. |
Image
MEDICINAL USES:
Antitussive, detoxicant, diuretic, febrifuge.
Has been used for cough, pulmonary tuberculosis, pterygium (a growth of mucous membrane extending over inner portion of the conjunctiva of the eye).
A decoction of the leaf has been used for dysentary.
Has also been mixed with leek and stuffed into nostrils (reason unknown).
Image
Common in Britain but found worldwide in sandy, gravelly heaths and waste places near the sea. Flowers all summer. There are two marked varieties: an inland variety which is smaller and the seaside variety (Spergularia marina) which is larger in every respect and has fleshy leaves. Species is annual or biennial.
MEDICINAL USES:
Has been used in bladder diseases, acute and chronic cystitis, and calculus diseases.
DOSE: TRADITIONAL DOSAGES FOR PROFESSIONAL NOTE ONLY
All others buy commercial preparations and follow directions carefully.
FLUID EXTRACT = 1 fluid drachm 3 or 4 times daily.
INFUSION = 1 oz dried herb to 1 pint boiling water; steep 10 min.
