Medicine Woman Herbals

The following are photos of some of the herbs that grow on or near our farm. All images and text are Copyrighted by Medicine Woman Herbals and All Rights Are Reserved. The content can only be reproduced by the express written consent of Medicine Woman Herbals!

Ginseng - Grows in the rich soil of the forest floor. The berries on this plant have not yet turned red and dropped to the ground to re-seed. Therefore, it is much too early to dig the root for medicine.

Basil is used to treat stomach cramps, vomiting, fevers, colds, flu, headaches, whooping cough, and menstrual pains. It is also used to reduce stomach acid, making it a valuable part of any treatment for ulcers, and a valuable addition to any recipe using tomatoes for those with sensitive stomachs. Externally it can be used for insect bites, to draw out the poisons. It has been used in other countries to eliminate worms from the intestines, and the oil from Basil leaves is applied directly to the skin to treat acne.

BERGAMOT Also known as Oswego tea and Bee Balm. It is used to treat nausea and vomiting, and cold and flu relief. The essential oil is used to treat acne, coughs, fevers, tension, stress, and depression. Bergamot also makes an effective douche for vaginitis.

Black-Eyed Susan - Contains immune system boosting properties similar to Echinacea. This beautiful wildflower covers the meadow near our farm.

GOLDEN ROD Golden Rod is perhaps the first plant to think of for upper respiratory catarrh, whether acute or chronic, it may be used in combination with other herbs in the treatment of influenza. The carminative properties reveal a role in the treatment of flatulent dyspepsia. As an anti-inflammatory urinary antiseptic, Golden Rod may be used in cystitis, urethritis and the like. It can be used to promote the healing of wounds. As a gargle it can be used in laryngitis and pharyngitis. Golden Rod is aspecific for cat allergies. This herb grows in abundance in the meadow on our farm.

Jimsonweed � These flowers, which are opened in the early morning and slowly close as the day progresses are beautiful to look, but you sure don't want to touch them! Whole plant contains atropine and other alkaloids, used in eye diseases (to dilate pupils); causes dry mouth, depresses action of bladder muscles, impedes action of parasympathetic nerves; used in Parkinson�s Disease; also contains scopolamine, used in patches behind the ear for vertigo. Folk cancer remedy. WARNING: Violently toxic! Causes severe hallucinations. Many fatalities recorded. Those who collect this plant may end up with swollen eyelids. Licorice Root has been suggested as an antidote. This is another plant that is abundant in the meadow on our farm. I love to look at them in the early morning when the blooms are fully opened.

Beth Root (Trillium) - This plant is quite rare and should not be harvested in the wild. It is now on the protected plant list. We have several of these rare plants in the forest near our farm.

Passion Flower - Traditionally used for its sedative and soothing properties, to lower blood pressure, prevent tachycardia and for insomnia. Can be harmful if taken in large quantities. This herb grows wild in abundance on and near our farm.