Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Belladonna

The goal of life is living in agreement with nature.

Zeno (335 BC - 264 BC), from Diogenes Laertius, Lives of Eminent Philosophers

Throughout this course there will be information listed that in part, comes from the King's American Dispensatory by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D., 1898 CE. This is done in part to offer a background on the early uses of herbs, which in some cases has not changed to this day. As always, this information is offered in an educational way only. The use of herbs for whatever reason is a personal decision and not one that is suggested or implied in any way. We hope that you enjoy the course...

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson One - Glossary

Coltsfoot

Greetings and welcome to the Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course. It is our hope that your knowledge of herbs is expanded and that you enjoy the course.

One of the major uses of herbs is in fact medicinal. Therefore we need to learn certain terms in order to better understand the proper and safe use of herbs. Used in the wrong way, herbs can cause serious injury and even death. This information is for educational purposes only! No other use is suggested or implied...

Meng Shen, is a Chinese herbalist who wrote the first diet herbal describing 227 herbs. He lived to be 92 (621 CE-713 CE). His book was called "Shih Liao Ben Tsao" (Diet Therapy of Herbs) which was written in 686 CE.

Terms:

Adaptogen - Herbs that have immune system enhancers which help the body adjust to change, regulates stress and restores natural immune resistance. Ex: Echinacea, garlic, ginkgo balboa, ginseng, goldenseal, pau d'arco and suma

Alterative - Herbs with alterative properties stimulate gradual changes in metabolism and tissue function in acute and chronic conditions and increase overall health, energy, vigor and strength. Ex: aloe Vera, black Cohosh, blue Cohosh, blue vervain, capsicum, cascara sagrada, chamomile, damiana, dandelion, Echinacea, elecampane, fenugreek, garlic, ginger, gingo biloba, goldenseal, hawthorn, horsetail, milk thistle, red clover, red raspberry, yarrow and yellow dock root.

Abortifacient: Induces the premature abortion of the fetus. Ex: pennyroyal, aloe, sandalwood and arbor vitae .

Anodyne - Herbs with this property have the ability to soothe and reduce the intensity of pain. Ex: anise, chamomile, cloves, juniper, pleurisy root and rosemary.

Antacid: An agent that neutralizes the acid produced by the stomach. Ex: marshmallow root and leaf, meadowsweet, hops flower, and sweet flag.

Antilithic - These herbs work to prevent the formation of stones in the gall bladder and kidney, as well as helping to expell those already formed. Antilithics are similar to lithotriptics. Ex: buchu leaves, hydrangea and uva ursi leaves.

Anti-spasmodic – This is an agent who prevents or relieves convulsions or spasms. Ex: Devils claw, white willow bark, feverfew, meadowsweet, arnica, licorice.

Aphthae - Canker sores.

Blood Purifier – These are agents that clean and remove impurities from the blood. Ex: birch, buckthorn, calendula, couch grass, dandelion, plantain and watercress

Calcium phosphate - A colorless deliquescent powder, Ca (H2PO4)2, that is used in baking powders, as a plant food, as a plastic stabilizer, and in glass.

Camphor - An aromatic crystalline compound obtained from the wood or leaves of the camphor tree or synthesized and used as an insect repellent and in external preparations to relieve mild pain and itching.

Cardiac Stimulant: Herbs that promote circulation when there is a weak heart. Ex: Poke root, Scotch broom and Black Cohosh.

Carminative – This is a drug or agent that induces the expulsion of gas from the stomach or intestines. Ex: angelica root, capsicum, caraway seeds, catnip, chamomile flowers, Echinacea, fennel, ginger, hops, lemon balm, parsley root, peppermint, and valerian.

Cathartic – This is an agent for purging the bowels, especially a laxative. Ex: Cascara Sagrada, Aloe Vera, flaxseed, fenugreek, buckthorn, rhubarb, and senna.

Cephalic - This term refers to diseases affecting the head and upper part of the body.

Chloride of sodium - Is known as common salt, table salt, or halite, and is a chemical compound with the formula NaCl.

Cholagogue – This is an agent that increases the flow of bile which aids digestion, as well as acting as a mild laxative. Ex: Aloe Vera, barberry, culver root, dandelion, goldenseal, hops, licorice, Oregon grape root and wild yam

Collagen – This is the fibrous protein constituent of bone, cartilage, tendon, and other connective tissue.

Cubic centimeter - A metric unit of volume equal to one thousandth of a liter.

Dentition – This is the eruption through the gums of baby teeth.

Digestives – These are agents which promote or aid in the digestion process. Ex: anise, capsicum, Echinacea, garlic, horseradish, mustard, papaya, safflower and sage

Distilled - To exude or give off (matter) in drops or small quantities.

Emetic – This is an agent that is used to induce vomiting. Ex: bayberry, boneset, buckthorn, culver, false unicorn, lobelia, mandrake, mistletoe, mustard seed, pleurisy, and rue.

Estrogenic - Herbs which promote or produce estrus. Ex: Blue Cohosh, dong quai, false unicorn, fennel and licorice

Glucoside – This is a glycoside, the sugar component of which is glucose.

Glycerin - A sweet syrupy trihydroxy alcohol obtained by saponification of fats and oils, Glycerol.

Gram – This is a metric unit of mass equal to one thousandth (10-3) of a kilogram.

Macerate – This means to make soft by soaking or steeping in a liquid.

Mucilaginous – A material, resembling, containing or secreting mucilage, having the properties of glue.

Myotic – A condition, that causes the contraction of the pupil and diminution of ocular tension.

Precipitated - To cause (a solid substance) to be separated from a solution.

Refrigerant - Relieves fever and thirst. Any cooling remedy. Used to lower body temperature. Ex: Aloe, coriander, ginger, hibiscus, orange, lemon, licorice and sandalwood.

Soporific - Herbs that help to produce sleep. Ex: Chamomile, hops, mandrake and St. Johns Wort.

Triturate - To rub, crush, grind, or pound into fine particles or a powder; pulverize.

Troy ounce - A unit of apothecary weight equal to 480 grains or one twelfth of a pound.

Ulcerated - To develop an ulcer; become ulcerous.

Vermicide - Herbs that kill intestinal worms. Ex: Cloves, Black walnut, Elecampane and Garlic.

Vulnerary - Any form of first aid for wounds and skin abrasions. Ex: yarrow, hyssop, thyme, lemon balm, soapwort and chickweed.

Quiz:

1. Herbs that work to prevent the formation of stones in the gall bladder and kidney are called ______.

2. Diseases affecting the head and upper part of the body are called ______.

3. To make soft by soaking or steeping in a liquid is to ______.

4. Agents that clean and remove impurities from the blood are called ______.

5. Used in the wrong way, herbs can cause serious injury and even ______.

6. Herbs that have the ability to soothe and reduce the intensity of pain are called ______.

7. An Aphthae is a ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Two - Medicated Waters

Ginseng

DianChect is the physician of the Tuatha De Danann, known as the Celtic pantheon. He is renowned for forging a new arm for Nuada out of silver so that he could reclaim the kingship from the half Formorian, "Bres". In time and out of jealousy, DianChect, in a fit of jealousy, killed his own son, "Miach" who along with his sister, "Airmed" replaced the silver arm with a human arm. It is said that from Miach's grave grew 365 herbs which his sister Airmed, gathered and categorized for their medical uses.

In general, the term "Medicated Waters" is applied to all those aqueous liquids holding in solution the volatile oils of plants. Generally, medicated waters are obtained through one of two ways; either through "distillation" or at one time the Trituration Process, which is rarely used anymore. Trituration is where the herb material is first ground up with a mortar and pestle prior to processing.

A word on the process of Trituration from the American Journal of Pharmacy

Volume 56 #2, February, 1884

The process of Triturating the oil with magnesium carbonate is directed for the property possessed of reducing, mechanically, the size of the oily globules in order to present a greater surface to the solvent action of the water. The main objection to its use rests upon the fact of its appreciable solubility in distilled water and to a greater extent, when ordinary water containing in solution, as it usually does, carbonic oxide. The medicated waters thus made and holding in solution this alkaline earth salt may, when prescribed with alkaloids, their salts or certain metallic oxides, precipitate them from solution on standing and may lead to grave and serious results. To overcome this defect the substitution of paper pulp, chalk, pumice stone or charcoal has been proposed. These, however, are poor expedients and all fall through there inherent lack of the necessary power of diffusion of the oily ingredient upon trituration.

There are many methods of distillation. The most popular method and the one described within this lesson is "steam" distillation. Steam distillation is done in a still. Fresh or sometimes dried, botanical material is placed in the plant chamber of the still, and pressurized steam is generated in a separate chamber and circulated through the plant material. The heat of the steam forces the tiny intercellular pockets that hold the essential oils to open and release them. The temperature of the steam must be high enough to open the pouches, yet not so high that it destroys the plants or fractures or burns the essential oils. As they are released the tiny droplets of essential oil evaporate and together with the steam molecules, travel through a tube into the still's condensation chamber. As the steam cools, it condenses into water. The essential oil forms a film on the surface of the water. To separate the essential oil from the water, the film is then decanted or skimmed off the top. The remaining water is a byproduct of distillation and is called floral water, distillate, or hydrosol. It retains many of the therapeutic properties of the plant, making it quite valuable in skin care for facial mists and toners. In some situations, floral water may be preferable to pure essential oil, such as when treating an individual with sensitive skin or perhaps a child.

In modern usage, medicated waters/oils are used in a Ayurveda treatment called "Dhara". This is done by pouring a stream of the medicated liquid over the affected part of the body. Medicated waters are also used on occasion as a feminine douche.

Medicated waters have been made by adding to a few pounds of the leaves or flowers of the article required, 6 or 7 fluid ounces of proof-spirit, and 2 gallons of water; from which 1 gallon is distilled.

Aqua Foeniculi: (Fennel Water)

Preparation.—"Oil of fennel, two cubic centimeters (2 Cc.) [32]; precipitated calcium phosphate, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; distilled water in a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the oil of fennel with the precipitated calcium phosphate, add the distilled water gradually, under continued trituration, and filter"—(U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Fennel water is a pleasant aromatic, stimulant and carminative; and may be added to other medicines to render them more agreeable. It may be employed for gastric acidity and flatulent colic. The dose is from 1 fluid drachm to 1 fluid ounce.

Aqua Menthae Piperitae: (Peppermint Water)

Preparation.—"Oil of peppermint, two cubic centimeters (2 Cc.) [32]; precipitated calcium phosphate, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; distilled water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the oil of peppermint with the precipitated calcium phosphate, add the distilled water gradually, under constant trituration, and filter"—(U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Peppermint water is used as an antispasmodic and carminative, in flatulence and flatulent colic, to allay nausea and vomiting, and as a gentle aromatic stimulant. The dose is from 4 fluid drachms to 2 fluid ounces, 3 or 4, or more times a day.

Aqua Cinnamomi: (Cinnamon Water)

Preparation.—"Oil of cinnamon, two cubic centimeters (2 Cc.) [32]; precipitated calcium phosphate, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; distilled water a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the oil of cinnamon with the precipitated calcium phosphate, add the distilled water gradually, under continued trituration, and filter"—(U. S. P.).

When cinnamon water is prepared with true oil of cinnamon, it soon becomes turbid from oxidation of the oil, and the formation of cinnamic acid (C6H5.CH:CH.COOH), which crystallizes from the water. Oil of Chinese cinnamon yields water remaining clear for a much longer time.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Cinnamon water is useful in passive hemorrhage from the lungs, stomach, kidneys, or uterus, in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, and in flatulency. It is frequently employed to cover the unpleasant taste of other remedies, especially opiates, and will often allay vomiting. Its dose is from 2 fluid drachms to 2 fluid ounces. It should not be used when fever or inflammation is present.

Aqua Hedeomae: (Pennyroyal Water)

Preparation - Triturate oil of American pennyroyal, 1/2 fluid drachm, with precipitated calcium phosphate, 1 drachm, then with distilled water, 2 pints, to be gradually added; finally, filter through paper.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Pennyroyal water may be used as a substitute for, and in the same doses as peppermint and spearmint waters. Some persons prefer it.

Aqua Amygdalae Amarae (Bitter Almond Water)

Preparation - Oil of bitter almond, one cubic centimeter (1 Cc.) [16]; distilled water, nine hundred and ninety-nine cubic centimeters (999 Cc.) [33 fl, 374], to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the oil in the distilled water by agitation, and filter through a well-wetted filter"—(U. S. P.).

This medicated water soon undergoes decomposition, and so should only be prepared as required.

It is a sedative, of the character of hydrocyanic acid, and is preferable to the distilled water of bitter almonds; which is more dangerous in its effects upon the system, and which is sold under the same name; great care is required to distinguish between these two preparations in dispensing prescriptions.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Bitter almond water may be used in all cases where hydrocyanic acid or its sedative compounds are useful, as in whooping-cough, pulmonary affections, etc. It is more commonly used as an addition to other medicines to impart its peculiar flavor to them. The dose of bitter almond water, when freshly made, is from 1 to 2 fluid drachms, which may be repeated 2 or 3 times daily. The dosage is uncertain in strength, and so caution should be observed when used as a remedy.

Aqua Anisi (Anise Water)

Preparation - Oil of anise, two cc; of precipitated calcium phosphate, four grams distilled water, a sufficient, quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters. Triturate the oil of anise with the precipitated calcium phosphate, add the water gradually, under constant trituration, and filter.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Used principally as a pleasant vehicle for the administration of magnesia, and such cathartics as jalap, rhubarb, and senna, to modify their griping action. It is useful also as a carminative to expel flatus in flatulent colic, and indigestion accompanied with gaseous accumulations. The dose is from 2 fluid drachms to 1 fluid ounce.

Aqua Carui (Caraway Water)

Preparation.—Prepare caraway water in the same manner as cinnamon water on page 247, using oil of caraway instead of oil of cinnamon.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—the properties, uses, and dose of caraway water are the same as for anise water. It has a strong odor of caraway.

Aqua Sambuci (Elder-Flower Water)

Preparation.—to fresh elder flowers, 12 pounds, add water, 2 gallons. Distill 1 gallon. The Br. Pharm. directs 10 pounds of the fresh flowers freed from the stalks (or an equal weight of flowers preserved, while still fresh, with salt), to 5 gallons of water, to produce 1 gallon (Imp.) of elder-flower water.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—But little oil is contained in elder flowers; the water distilled from them is sometimes used in collyria and other lotions. It is more extensively employed in England than in America. According to Mr. Haselden, the water distilled from elder flowers is better, when the flowers have been previously mixed or beaten with half their weight of chloride of sodium, as it tends to preserve them much longer from decomposition. The dose (usually as an excipient) is from 1 to 2 fluid ounces.

Quiz:

1. The most popular method of distillation is ______.

2. Aqua Cinnamomi is ______.

3. The main ingredient of Aqua Carui is oil of ______.

4. The remaining water of steam distillation, is a byproduct of distillation and is called ______water.

5. Trituration is where the herb material is first ground up with a ______and ______prior to processing.

6. In some situations, floral water may be preferable to pure ______.

7. Aqua Hedeomae is called ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Three - Herbal Mixtures

Dr. Samuel Hahnemann himself prepared the very first homeopathic medicines in 1801 CE. He was a German physician who earned his Doctor of Medicine degree in 1779 CE. He concluded from his experiences that effective drugs must produce symptoms in healthy people that are similar to the diseases they will be expected to treat. Today this principal is known as the "Law of Similars" and is the basis for the use of the term homeopathy ("similar suffering").

When making herbal mixtures be very aware of the contraindications of each of the herbs being used. Adverse reactions to individual herbs, when combined with commercial medicines or for that matter with other herbs, can lead to serious consequences and even death.

The starting point for making herbal mixtures as a commercial enterprise can be traced to the compendium known as "He Ji Ju Fang (1080 CE)" from the Song dynasty. The history of powdered herb mixtures is also mentioned in the Huangdi Neijing and the pre-Neijing scroll "Wushier Bing Fang" (circa 168 BCE)). It should be noted that prior to dry herbal mixtures, that decoctions were the preferred method of ingesting herbs for medicinal purposes.

Blending of herbs and spices for seasoning meats, vegetables, fish and poultry was added to the culinary repertoire during the Middle Ages.

Mistura Acaciae (N. F.) - Mixture of Acacia.

Synonym: Mixtura gummosa.

Preparation.—"Acacia, in coarse powder, seventy-five grammes (75 Gm.) 12 ozs. av., 282 grs.]; sugar, seventy-five grammes (75 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 282 grs.]; water, eight hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (850 Cc.) 128 fl, 356]. Dissolve the acacia and sugar in the water. This preparation should be freshly made when wanted for use"—(

Gum Arabic is nutritive and demulcent, and exerts a soothing influence upon irritated or inflamed mucous tissues, by shielding them from the influence of deleterious agents, atmospheric air, etc. On this account it has been used in diarrhoea and dysentery, to remove tenesmus and painful stools, in catarrh, cough, hoarseness, gonorrhoea, ardor urinae, etc.—(Coxe.) It may be given almost ad libitum in powder, lozenge, or solution, alone or combined with syrups, decoctions, etc. In acute diseases, where it becomes necessary to use the lightest and most readily digested food, there is no article, probably, equal to gum arabic. It may be used for this purpose by dissolving half an ounce of the powdered gum in 5 ounces of water, and sweetening with loaf-sugar, of which a tablespoonful may be given every 2 or 3 hours; in low stages of fever, in typhoid fever, and wherever a mild stimulant is required, 1 ounce of a saturated solution of camphor in sulphuric ether may be added to the above, and administered in the same way; it is diuretic, promotes the action of the absorbents, and does not materially increase arterial action. Equal parts of pulverized alum and gum Arabic form a good preparation to check hemorrhages from small cuts, wounds, etc. Externally, the application of its solution to burns and scalds has proved serviceable, repeating it until a complete coating is secured. It is likewise much used for compounding pills, lozenges, mixtures, and emulsions; also for administering insoluble substances in water, as oils, resins, balsams, camphor, musk, etc.

Mistura Sennae Composita - Compound Mixture of Senna.

Preparation.—Dissolve, by means of gentle heat, 4 ounces (av.) of magnesium sulphate in 15 fluid ounces (Imp.) of infusion of senna, and add 1 fluid ounce of liquid extract of liquorice, 2 1/2 fluid ounces of tincture of senna, and 1 1/2 fluid ounces of tincture of cardamoms. This is the British form (Br. Pharm., 1885) of compound infusion of senna, or black draught (see Infusum Sennae Compositum for American black draught).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Same as for Compound Infusion of Senna. Dose, from 1 to 1 1/2 fluid ounces (Imp.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Senna is a certain, manageable, and convenient cathartic, very useful in all forms of febrile diseases in which a laxative action is desired, particularly in the forming stage of bilious and other fevers, especially in children, and in other diseases where a severe impression on the bowels is not desired. Constipation does not follow its employment. It is also efficient in flatulent and bilious colic’s. Its influence is chiefly exerted on the small intestines, augmenting their mucous secretions, exciting increased peristaltic motion, and producing loose, yellowish-brown evacuations. A nursing infant may be purged by the milk of the mother who has taken senna, and so susceptible are some persons to its action, that its odor is said to induce a cathartic action. It does not act as a sedative, as is the case with some other cathartics, nor as a refrigerant; but has a slight stimulating influence, insufficient, however, to contraindicate its use in case of general excitement or reaction. Besides the nauseating taste of senna, it is apt to cause sickness at stomach, and very few persons can use it alone, without experiencing more or less griping pains and flatulence. The additions of cloves, ginger, cinnamon, or other aromatics, are excellent correctives of these unpleasant effects. A teaspoonful of cream of tartar to a teacupful of the decoction or infusion of senna is a mild and pleasant cathartic, particularly suited for females, where it may be required soon after delivery. The addition of neutral laxative salts, as phosphate of sodium, Epsom, or Rochelle salts, is another mode, adopted by a certain class of practitioners, of preventing the tormina, and, at the same time, increasing the activity of the infusion of senna. These are, however, rarely used by Eclectics. Saccharine and aromatic substances are also combined for this purpose, as sugar, manna, aromatic seeds, electuary of senna, etc. The purgative effect of senna is much increased by the addition of the pure bitters; the decoction of guaiacum is said to answer a similar purpose. Senna is contraindicated in an inflammatory condition of the alimentary canal, or even irritation of those parts, general debility, hemorrhoids, prolapsus ani, etc. The dose, in powder, is from 30 to 50 grains; in tincture, from 1/2 to 2 fluid ounces; specific senna, 1 to 60 drops; electuary, 2 drachms; and of the infusion, which is the most usual mode of administration, from 2 to 4 fluid ounces.

But, according to Mr. T. B. Groves, the tincture of senna is without action; the decoction is of less value than the infusion, and the infusion less than maceration; the solution by maceration alone purges without gripings, as by this method the larger portion of the cathartic principle is extracted, leaving behind the acrid constituents. Cathartic acid has the same action of senna, purging with griping in doses of 1 1/2 to 3 grains. The seed-pods and leaf-stalks of senna are slower to act than senna, but are freer from griping and nauseating effects than the leaves.

Specific Indications and Uses.—Wind or bilious colics; a laxative for non-inflammatory conditions of the intestinal tract.

Mistura Copaibae Composita - Compound Copaiba Mixture.

Synonym: Diuretic drops.

Preparation.—Take of spirit of nitrous ether and oil of almonds, each, 1 fluid ounce; copaiba and oil of turpentine, of each, 1/2 fluid ounce; camphor, in powder, 10 grains. Mix the liquids, then add the camphor, and agitate briskly (Beach's Amer. Prac.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this forms a diuretic mixture, which has been successfully and extensively used in gonorrhoea, gleet, scalding of urine, and urinary affections. The dose is 1 fluid drachm three times a day, in some tea or mucilage. It should be well agitated previous to administration.

Mistura Guaiaci (N. F.) - Mixture of Guaiac.

Preparation.—"Guaiac (U. S. P.), in powder, twenty-five grammes (25 Gm.) [386 grs.]; sugar, twenty-five grammes (25 Gm.) [386 grs.]; acacia, in fine powder, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [231 grs.]; cinnamon water (U. S. P.), one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the powdered guaiac with the sugar and acacia, then gradually add the cinnamon water, and mix thoroughly. This mixture should be well agitated, whenever any of it is to be dispensed. Note.—This preparation is practically identical with the Mistura Guaiaci of the British Pharmacopoeia"—(Nat. Form.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Same as for Guaiacum. Dose, 1/4 to 1 fluid ounce, several times a day. Mixture of guaiac was once very popular in the treatment of constitutional syphilis and syphilitic rheumatism.

Mistura Cajuputi Composita - Compound Cajeput Mixture.

Synonym: Hunn's drops.

Preparation.—Take of oils of cajeput, cloves, peppermint, and anise, each, 1 fluid ounce; rectified alcohol, 4 fluid ounces. Dissolve the oils in the alcohol.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—This is a very valuable stimulant and antispasmodic preparation, and has been successfully used in colic, cramp of the stomach, or elsewhere, flatulence, pains in the stomach or bowels, painful diarrhoea, cholera morbus, Asiatic cholera, and in all cases where stimulant and antispasmodic action is desired. During the cholera of 1849-51, it was extensively used in Cincinnati for the purpose of overcoming violent spasmodic action, in the doses of 1 or 2 fluid drachms, every 10 or 15 minutes; 1 or 2 doses generally succeeded in relieving the pains and spasms when all other means had failed. The ordinary dose is from 10 drops to 1/2 fluid drachm. It should be given in simple syrup, mucilage of slippery-elm, or in hot brandy and water sweetened. Care should be taken not to give too much of this preparation, as a large amount would produce inflammation of the stomach. It is a very valuable agent when properly used, and should be kept by every physician and druggist (J. King).

Mistura Chenopodii Composita - Compound Wormseed Mixture.

Synonym: Worm mixture.

Preparation.—Take of castor oil, 1 fluid ounce; wormseed oil, anise oil, and tincture of myrrh, of each 1 fluid drachm. Mix (Beach's Amer. Prac.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—This is an excellent vermifuge, and may be used in doses of one teaspoonful for an adult, to be repeated three or four times a day, and after having been taken for three successive days, to be followed by a cathartic. This somewhat resembles Fahnestock's Vermifuge, which is said to be composed of castor oil, 1 fluid ounce; oil of wormseed, 1 fluid ounce; oil of anise, 1/2 fluid ounce; tincture of myrrh, 1/2 fluid drachm; oil of turpentine, 10 minims; croton oil, 1 minim. Mix. The dose is a teaspoonful for an adult, every 2 hours, to be continued for 10 or 12 hours.

Mistura Rhei et Sodae - Mixture of Rhubarb and Soda.

Preparation.—"Sodium bicarbonate, thirty-five grammes (3,5 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 103 grs.]; fluid extract of rhubarb, fifteen cubic centimeters (15 Cc.) [243]; fluid extract of ipecac, three cubic centimeters (3 Cc.) [49]; glycerin, three hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (350 Cc.) [11 fl, 401]: spirit of peppermint, thirty-five cubic centimeters (35 Cc.) [1 fl, 88]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the sodium bicarbonate in about four hundred cubic centimeters (400 Cc.) [13 fl, 252] of water. Then add the fluid extracts, the glycerin, and the spirit of peppermint, and, lastly, enough water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]"—(U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—This preparation, in large doses, is purgative and carminative; in smaller amounts, it cheeks diarrhoea and colic accompanying infantile dyspepsia. Dose, 1/2 fluid drachms to 2 fluid ounces.

Mistura Sanguinariae Composita - Compound Mixture of Bloodroot.

Synonym: Cough drops.

Preparation.—Take of syrup of ipecacuanha (more), syrup of squill (more), tincture of bloodroot, syrup of balsam tolu (more), camphorated tincture of opium (more), each, 1 ounce. Mix (J. King).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this is a very efficient preparation in severe coughs from colds, catarrhal, or bronchial irritations. The dose is from 1/2 to 1 fluid drachm whenever the fit of coughing is severe. I have used it for many years in practice, with much benefit. A very pleasant preparation for cough is composed of oil of anise, oil of sweet almonds, tincture of balsam of tolu, Canada balsam, Madeira wine, each, 1 ounce. Mix (Beach's Amer. Prac.). The dose is from 10 to 20 drops, 3 or 4 times a day, in a little elm or flaxseed infusion. It assists expectoration, and affords great relief in tickling coughs (J. King).

Mistura Sodae et Menthae (N. F.) - Mixture of Soda and Spearmint.

Synonym: Soda mint.

Preparation.—Sodium bicarbonate, fifty grammes (50 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 334 grs.]; aromatic spirit of ammonia (U. S. P.), ten cubic centimeters (10 Cc.) [162]; spearmint water (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the sodium bicarbonate in about seven hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (750 Cc.) [25 fl, 173] of spearmint water, add the aromatic spirit of ammonia and enough spearmint water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Filter, if necessary"—(Nat. Form.).

Action and Medical Uses.—Antacid and carminative.

Mistura Camphorae Composita - Compound Mixture of Camphor.

Preparation.—Take of camphor water, peppermint water, and spearmint water, each, 1 fluid ounce; camphorated tincture of opium, 2 fluid drachms. Mix.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this is a very efficient agent in allaying nausea and vomiting. It was extensively and successfully employed in Cincinnati in the nausea and vomiting attending Asiatic cholera. It possesses the virtues of the several articles entering into its composition, without the stimulating influence of the alcohol (which enters into their tinctures), upon already partially inflamed mucous surfaces. The dose is from a teaspoonful to a tablespoonful, every 5 minutes, if the patient be vomiting, and every 10 minutes if he be only nauseated (J. King). This preparation may be employed in painful states due to gaseous distension of the intestines.

Herbal Smoke:

There are a number of herbal mixtures that can be used for herbal smoking. These uses can be for strictly enjoyment, medicinal and for spiritual uses. Never should they be abused. And when drying such herbs, don't dry them to a crisp but rather to a slightly moist composition.

One example of these is Calamus (Sweet Flag). It is quite useful for those who are quitting long term marijuana use. In small doses it acts as a stimulant. In large internal doses it becomes hallucinogenic. Its main ingredient (TMA) is more psychoactive by weight than mescaline. However, smoking it will not cause psychic alterations. Instead it provides a relaxed, pleasant, mild psychotropic effect which is very different from Marijuana.

Mullein, (Verbascum thapsus) is another example.

When smoked it soothes inflamed or infected lungs, and prevents coughing until infection or inflammation is broken up. It then it aids in expectoration, helping to break up congestion and promote "effective" coughing. At one time it was smoked to stop the coughing of tuberculosis. It is great for any kind of lung cleansing. Very gentle and non-toxic, you can use it anytime. Mullein should be rubbed and slightly moist, prior to smoking.

And yet another herbal mixture is Coltsfoot, Tussilago farfara and Horehound, Marrubium vulgare. Again the mixture should be slightly moist. And the amounts of each herb will have to be adjusted so that consistent coughing is not the end result. This mixture promotes coughing and aid in the upward flow of mucus. And are ideal for a general lung cleansing, for the ending of respiratory flu’s and colds, and for when you are quitting Tobacco.

Ceremonial herbal mixtures will be covered in the Shamanic herb lesson.

Again, use common sense as to the use of these and all herbs...

Quiz:

1. Making herbal mixtures as a commercial enterprise can be traced to the compendium known as ______.

2. Mistura Chenopodii Composita is an excellent ______.

3. A very efficient agent in allaying nausea and vomiting is Compound Mixture of ______.

4. ______is quite useful for those who are quitting long term marijuana use.

5. Mistura Sanguinariae Composita is useful for making ______.

6. Cathartic acid has the same action of ______.

7. Blending of herbs and spices for seasoning meats, vegetables, fish and poultry was added to the culinary repertoire during the ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Four - Plasters

Slippery Elm

Poultices and plasters are generally the same thing: mashed and/or heated herbs applied to the skin as a dressing. The major difference between modern poultices and plasters is that plasters tend to have a layer of cloth between them and the skin, but the terms are often used interchangeably.

The Greek God of medicine is Aesclepius. His symbol is a single snake wrapped around a crude staff without wings (similar to the caduceus). Legend has it, that Hade, being alarmed that Asklepius's ability to keep people alive might put him (Hades) out of work. Hades convinced his brother Zeus, God of Earth and Sky, to kill Asklepius. For daring to wield power as mighty as that of the gods, Zeus struck the mortal Asklepius down with a Thunderbolt and then placed him among the constellations to honor him, calling him "Ophiuchus," which means serpent holder.

The Romans honor Aesclepius on Januarius 1. His temple was established, Januarius 1, A.U.C. 463 (January 1, 291 BCE) on Tiber Island (Insula Tiberina) to teach medicine in Rome.

Plasters: (some of the following information was obtained from King's American Dispensatory by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D., 1898.)

Emplastrum Capsici - Capsicum Plaster

Preparation.—"Oleoresin of capsicum, resin plaster (contains lead), each, a sufficient quantity. Melt the resin plaster at a gentle heat, spread a thin and even layer of it upon muslin, and allow it to cool. Then, having cut off a piece of the required size, apply a thin coat of oleoresin of capsicum, by means of a brush, leaving a narrow, blank margin along the edges. A space of ten centimeters (10 Cm.) [3.94 inches] square should contain about twenty-five centigrammes (0.25 Gm.) [3.85 grains] of oleoresin of capsicum"—(U. S. P.).

Action and Medical Uses.—This plaster is stimulant and slightly rubefacient. It may be applied where a mild counter-irritant is needed in neuralgic, rheumatic, and other painful conditions.

Emplastrum Capsici Compositum - Compound Capsicum Plaster.

Preparation.—Take of rosin, 4 troy ounces; yellow wax, 1 troy ounce; tincture of capsicum, 1/2, pint. Melt the rosin and wax, and add the tincture; keep stirring by a gentle heat, until the alcohol is evaporated; then remove from the fire, and, when nearly cold, add pulverized camphor, 1/2 troy ounce; oil of sassafras, 45 minims. Stir until cold (Beach's Amer. Prac.).

Action and Medical Uses.—this forms a gently stimulating and strengthening plaster, and may be used in all cases where artificial support, prevention of the contact of atmospheric air, or mild stimulation is required. It was a great favorite with Eclectic physicians 25 years ago, and is still extensively used by them.

Emplastrum Aconiti - Aconite Plaster.

Preparation.—Take of aconite root, in coarse powder, 4 troy ounces, moisten it with 6 fluid ounces of alcohol, sp. gr. 0.835, and permit it to macerate 24 hours; then put it in a displacer, and pour on gradually alcohol, sp. gr. 0.835, a sufficient quantity to make a pint of tincture. Distill off 3/4 of the alcohol, evaporate the residue on a water-bath to a thick, syrupy consistence, then add lead plaster, in a melted state, 3 1/2 troy ounces, and stir constantly until it is properly incorporated with the soft resinous extract, and cools.

Description.—this forms a brown, homogenous mass, weighing about 4 troy ounces. It should, when used, be spread in a thin layer on skin or oiled-silk, and may be used several times when its application has not been too long continued at first. It is considered superior to that in which only aconitine enters, being more uniform in its strength and of equal efficacy.

Action and Medical Uses.—It possesses the medicinal efficacy of the root, and has been found a valuable application in neuralgia, headache, rheumatic pains, painful tumors of the breast and other parts, and in inflammatory dysmenorrhoea.

Emplastrum Belladonna Compositum - Compound Plaster of Belladonna.

Preparation.—Take of resin plaster (contains lead), 5 troy ounces; alcoholic extract of belladonna root, 1 troy ounce; alcoholic extract of conium maculatum, 1 1/2 troy ounces; pulverized iodine, 40 grains. Place the plaster in an earthenware mortar, and put this in hot water. When the plaster commences to melt, add the extracts of belladonna and conium, and rub the ingredients well together; then take the mortar from the water-bath, continuing the trituration, and, when nearly cool, add the iodine. The inspissated juices of the above narcotics are preferable to the ordinary extract in preparing this plaster.

Action and Medical Uses.—This plaster may be used for the same purposes as the belladonna plaster, and is also an excellent application over scrofulous and other tumors, white-swelling, and goitre; and may likewise be applied over the region of the liver and spleen for chronic affections of these organs, and over the lumbar vertebrae in severe dysmenorrhoea. It occasionally affects the constitution, and then requires to be omitted for a few days

Emplastrum Picis Compositum - Compound Tar Plaster.

Preparation.—Take burgundy pitch, 24 troy ounces; white turpentine, 16 troy ounces; melt them together, add tar 48 troy ounces, stir well together and strain, remove from the fire, and add finely-powdered mandrake root, blood-root, poke-root, Indian turnip, each 10 troy ounces. Incorporate well together (T. V. Morrow). When it is desired to produce a more active preparation, and one which will act more promptly, euphorbium, in powder, 4 troy ounces, is added to the above.

Action and Medical Uses.—this plaster is irritant, rubefacient, and suppurative. It is used extensively in many cases where counter-irritation or powerful revulsion is indicated, in neuralgia, rheumatism, and in the majority of painful chronic diseases. It acts more efficiently, and is much more adhesive when spread quite thin, on soft leather, than when spread on any kind of cloth; though it may be spread on oil-silk, India-rubber cloth, or other substance that will not absorb any portion of it. This plaster may be held in place by a bandage or two, as it has to be removed daily, but when it is desired to have a firmer adhesion to the skin, some adhesive plaster may be applied around the margin left on the material upon which the tar plaster is spread. When applied to a part of the body, it must be removed daily, for the purpose of thinly spreading the same piece of leather, or oil-silk, etc., with the plaster, which is to be immediately reapplied upon the part. This course is to be continued until the surface, to which it is applied, commences discharging matter, after which it should be removed 2 or a times a day, wiping it quite dry each time before re-spreading it, and likewise carefully drying the sore as much as possible. This latter is best accomplished by lightly pressing upon it soft pieces of dry cotton, linen, or lint, so as to absorb all the pus. The practitioner must bear in mind that he is never, no matter what may be the condition of the sore or surrounding parts, to wet it; this will render it irritable and inflamed, and cause it to cease suppurating healthily, and even to require its immediate healing.

This plaster is very painful, producing more or less irritability of the system, and should never be used except when its use is indispensable; when it becomes very painful and irritating, depriving the patient of sleep, or causing him to complain loudly, it must be removed, and a slippery-elm poultice be applied. Many practitioners consider the disturbance of sleep, alone, as an indication for removing the plaster, which may be reapplied when it is desirable to continue the suppurative discharge for a longer time, as soon as the elm poultice has allayed the local irritation. If this is not required, the sore may be healed by some simple application, as simple cerate, a mixture of beeswax and tallow, red oxide of lead plaster, etc. Whenever the tar plaster or the dressing to the sore produced by it, are removed for renewal, the sore should each time be cleansed from matter in the manner referred to above. As the peculiar odor of the ingredients of this plaster may be observed in the excretions, there is no doubt but that they are absorbed into the system, and exert an alterative as well as a counter-irritating influence.

Emplastrum Myrica - Bayberry Plaster.

Preparation.—Take of white gum turpentine and bayberry wax, each 2 troy ounces. Melt together, strain, and stir till cold. In winter, a small quantity of olive oil may be added (Beach's American Practice).

Action and Medical Uses.—this forms a very valuable and efficient application to scrofulous and other ulcers; also too many cutaneous affections. It is often prepared of the consistence of an ointment for these purposes.

Emplastrum Menthol - Menthol Plaster.

Preparation.—Melt together resin, 7 ounces (av.), and yellow wax, 1 ounce (av.). Stir into the mixture, as it cools, menthol, 2 ounces (av.).

Action and Medical Uses.—this plaster is now official in the Br. Pharm. It is designed as a counter-irritant, and is used for local pains, neuralgic or rheumatic in character, and in migraine.

Emplastrum Picis Burgundicae - Burgundy Pitch Plaster.

Preparation.—"Burgundy pitch, eight hundred grammes (800 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 12 ozs., 96 grs.]; olive oil, fifty grammes (50 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 334 grs.]; yellow wax, one hundred and fifty grammes (150 Gm.) [5 ozs. av., 127 grs.]; to make one thousand grammes (1000 Gm.) [2 lbs. av., 9 ozs., 120 grs.]. Melt together the burgundy pitch and yellow wax, then incorporate the olive oil, and stir constantly until the mass thickens on cooling"—(U. S. P.).

Action and Medical Uses.—this plaster is stimulant, and may be employed where a mild counter-irritant is demanded, as well as for a strengthening or supporting plaster. Occasionally the pitch plaster will be found to cause, and keep up a discharge of serum, and when it does so, it should be often renewed.

Some suggested Herbs and their uses:

Toxin Drawing Herbal Ingredients:

Cabbage leaf

Plantain

Oatmeal (Avena sativa)

Sheep sorrel

Raw potato

Bites And Stings:

Onion

Garlic

Plantain

Chickweed

Red Clover flowers

Lobelia

Lavender

Yellow dock roots and leaves

Cucumber

Cuts and Wounds - Clean cut or wound and apply an anti-septic such as Aloe Vera or tea tree oil prior to using the poultice.

Comfrey leaf

Plantain leaf

Calendula flowers

Rosemary

Fractures, Bruises, Sprains:

Comfrey

Borage

Violets

Arnica

Mustard

Parsley - Bruises.

Sweet clover - Bruises

Skin Ailments:

Comfrey - Boils carbuncles.

Plantain - Itching and pain.

Rosemary - Soothes eczema.

Chickweed - Boils and abscesses.

Red clover flowers - Itching.

Mullein leaf - Boils, carbuncles, skin ulcerations.

Anise hyssop - Burns.

American spikenard - Burns, sores, itching, swelling.

Sheep sorrel - Tumors and cysts.

Yellow dock root and leaves - Skin irritations, boils, burns.

Cucumber - Reduce inflammation and swelling.

Jewel weed - Poison ivy.

Quiz:

1. A very valuable and efficient application to scrofulous and other ulcers is ______.

2. Rosemary is used to soothe ______.

3. The Greek God of medicine is ______.

4. Emplastrum Capsici Compositum forms a gently ______and ______plaster.

5. When a counter-irritation or powerful revulsion plaster is need, ______plaster should be used.

6. For a stimulant and slightly rubefacient plaster, use ______.

7. Emplastrum Aconiti forms a brown and ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Five - Herbal Infusions

Horehound

The Yoruba Deity of herbal medicine is "Osanyin". He is the God of Herbs and is often depicted as standing on one leg. He is also depicted with one ear shriveled while the other is truly enormous. He is said to be deaf. It is said that he lives deep in the forest and never speaks. The Lucumí/Santería religion uses omiero, a sacred mixture of plants to consecrate ceremonies in honor of Osanyin.

Herbal Infusions:

Herbal infusions can be used externally as skin washes, compresses, douches, or poultices. Infusions are created by soaking the herbs in a liquid. Generally the term is used to indicate steeping the herb in hot water, what one would call a tea or tisane.

In a teapot, glass or ceramic bowl, place 1-2 tsp of herb (leaves, roots ect.) to each cup of water. Heat the water to boiling. Pour the water over the herbs. Leave to steep 3-5 minutes for a tea, 15-30 minutes for a bath or wash. Strain. Use hot or cool. Store unused portions in the refrigerator.

Another way to make an infusion is to: fill a teapot with one quart of boiling water. Then throw in a large handful of fresh herbs or an ounce or more of dried herbs. Add some honey, if desired, and let the mixture steep for ten to twenty minutes. Now strain and drink.

Or

Boil Water (1 quart for every ounce of herb) Place one ounce of herb (for each quart of water) in a tea pot, fresh press or canning jar When the water boils pour the water over the herb (if you are using a canning jar place a butter knife in the jar to act as a conduit-the knife will absorb some of the heat and keep the jar from breaking) Put a lid on the container and set aside for 4-8 hours After 4-8 hours strain the herb

Using Dried Leaves:

Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried leaves into a quart jar and fill the jar with boiling water. Screw the lid on tight and let steep until completely cool. Strain out plant material.

Using dried flowers:

Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried flowers into a quart jar and fill the jar with boiling water. Screw the lid on tight and let steep 2 or 3 hours. Strain out plant material.

Using Dried Seeds:

Put 1 ounce (a large handful) of dried seeds into a pint jar and fill the jar with boiling water. Screw the lid on tight and let steep for 1/2 hour - no more or the taste will be bitter. Strain out seeds.

Infusions from King's American Dispensatory.

by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D., 1898.

Infusum Anthemidis - Infusion of Chamomile.

Preparation.—Infuse, in a closed vessel for 15 minutes, 1/2 ounce (av.) of chamomile flowers in 10 fluid ounces (Imp.) of boiling distilled water. Strain. This accords with the Br. Pharm., 1885.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.— A useful preparation in the bowel troubles of dentition. Dose, 1 to 2 fluid ounces, smaller doses being given to children. It is emetic when warm; tonic and nervine when cold.

Infusum Lini - Infusion of Linseed.

Preparation.—Infuse, in a closed vessel, for 2 hours, 150 grains (av.) of linseed (whole), and 50 grains (av.) of liquorice-root (No. 20 powder), in 10 fluid ounces (Imp.) of boiling distilled water. Strain—(Br. Pharm.). The U. S. P., 1870, process directed flaxseed, 1/2 troy ounce; bruised liquorice-root, 120 grains, and boiling water, 1 pint. Macerate 2 hours and strain. The linseed should not be bruised, else the swelling of the seed will prevent straining, and as the mucilage is in the testa of the seed, bruising is wholly unnecessary.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.— Useful in acute respiratory disorders, but the liquorice impairs its usefulness in intestinal inflammations. It may be freely used for the administration of magnesium sulphate and quinine salts, though it is employed chiefly for coloring and flavoring purposes. Buccal and faucial inflammations and ulcerations maybe washed with it, and given internally, through the sulphuric acid contained in it, it exerts some control over colliquative sweats. The dose is 1 to 4 fluid ounces.

Infusum Caryophylli - Infusion of Cloves.

Preparation.—Macerate, in a closed vessel, for 30 minutes, 1/4 ounce (av.) of bruised cloves in 10 fluid ounces (Imp.) of boiling distilled water. Strain—(Br. Pharm.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—(See Caryophyllus.) Carminative. Used chiefly in the nausea of debility, and in pains induced by flatulence.

Infusum Apii Compositum - Compound Infusion of Parsley.

Preparation.—Take of parsley roots and seeds, coarsely bruised, carbonate of iron, each, 4 ounces; horseradish root, in small pieces, 2 ounces; juniper berries, squill, white mustard seed, mandrake root, and queen of the meadow, of each, finely bruised, 1 ounce; good cider, 6 quarts. Boil the cider and pour it on the rest of the articles mixed together in an earthen vessel; cover the vessel, and digest with a gentle heat for 24 hours.

The cider should not be hard, or too new, but sparkling and pleasantly tart, and, after digestion by heat, it should be allowed to remain upon the articles without straining it off. By this course, the liquid becomes still further impregnated with the properties of the medicines.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this is a most excellent preparation in several varieties of dropsy, for which alone it is used. It increases the action of the kidneys, regulates the bowels, improves the digestive functions, and promotes activity of the absorbent vessels. The dose is 1 or 2 fluid ounces, 3 times a day. In the summer season, half the above quantity may be made at one time, as otherwise it becomes very sour and moldy. It should always be used immediately after its preparation (J. King).

Infusum Pruni Virginianae - Infusion of Wild Cherry.

Preparation.—"Wild cherry, in No. 20 powder, forty grammes (40 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 180 grs.]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Moisten the powder with sixty cubic centimeters (60 Cc.) [2 fl, 14] of water, and macerate for 1 hour; then pack it firmly in percolator, and gradually pour water upon it until the infusion a conical glass percolator, and measures one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]"—(U. S. P.).

On account of the volatile character of the active constituents of wild cherry, cold water only should be used in preparing an infusion of it. A transparent, wine-colored infusion, pleasantly bitter, and possessing the well-known flavor of bitter almonds.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - Sedative and tonic. Dose, 1 to 3 fluid ounces, 3 or 4 times a day.

Infusum Digitalis - Infusion of Digitalis.

Preparation.—"Digitalis, bruised, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [232 grs.]; alcohol, one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]; cinnamon water, one hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (150 Cc.) [5 fl, 35]; boiling water, five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435]; cold water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Upon the digitalis, contained in a suitable vessel, pour the boiling water, and allow it to macerate until the mixture is cold. Then strain, add the alcohol and cinnamon water to the strained liquid, and pass enough cold water through the residue on the strainer to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (.1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]"—(U. S. P.).

The cinnamon in this preparation is merely added to flavor the infusion, while the alcohol tends to preserve it. Infusion of digitalis throws down a precipitate on standing several hours.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—(See Digitalis.) Infusion of digitalis is the most efficient preparation of foxglove, and is particularly applicable when a diuretic action is desired. It should be remembered that digitalis acts slowly and the infusion should not be pushed too fast, lest an over action result from it a day or two after its administration. The dose is 1 to 4 fluid drachms, 3 times a day, carefully watching its action.

Infusum Hydrastis Compositum - Compound Infusion of Golden Seal.

Preparation.—Take of golden seal, blue cohosh, witch-hazel, of each, in powder, 1 ounce; boiling water, 1 pint; pulverized alum, 1 drachm; honey, a sufficient quantity. Add the plants to the boiling water, and digest with a gentle heat, in a closed vessel, for 1/2 hour, remove from the fire, strain, add the alum, and sufficient honey to thoroughly sweeten the infusion.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this infusion is very valuable as a wash or gargle in various forms of sore mouth and ulcerated sore throat. Without the alum, it may also be employed internally in the same cases as named in the preceding article (J. King). The dose is 1/2 to 1 fluid ounce.

Infusum Salviae Compositum - Compound Infusion of Sage.

Preparation.—Take of sage leaves, hyssop leaves, of each, 1 ounce; boiling water, 2 pints; pulverized borax, 1 drachm. Place the herbs in the boiling water, allow them to digest for 1/2 hour, then strain and add the borax.

Action and Medical Uses.—this infusion is employed as a wash and gargle in aphthtae, sore throat, and quinsy, when accompanied with inflammation.

Infusum Geranii Compositum - Compound Infusion of Cranesbill.

Preparation.—Take of cranesbill, witch-hazel, black cohosh, and golden seal, each, coarsely bruised, 1/2 ounce; boiling water, 2 pints. Mix the articles together and digest with a gentle heat, in a closed vessel, for 2 hours; remove from the fire and strain. If required, alum, 1 drachm, may be added.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this forms an efficient astringent wash in aphthous and other diseases of the mouth and throat, when unaccompanied with inflammation; and is also useful as an injection in leucorrhoea, prolapsus ani, and prolapsus uteri. Without the alum, this infusion may be administered internally in doses of from 1 fluid drachm to 1/2 fluid ounce, repeated 3 or 4 times a day, and will prove efficient in chronic diarrhoea and dysentery, in passive hemorrhages, in hemorrhoids, and in debilitated conditions of the venous system (J. King).

Infusum Aurantii Compositum - Compound Infusion of Orange Peel.

Preparation.—Infuse, in a closed vessel for 15 minutes, 1/4 ounce (av.) of bitter orange peel (cut small); 56 grains of fresh lemon peel (cut small), and 28 grains of bruised cloves, in 10 fluid ounces (Imp.) of boiling distilled water. Strain—(Br. Pharm.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Used chiefly as a carminative. Dose, to 2 fluid ounces.

Some Suggested Herbs for Infusion:

Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) - Alfalfa contains vitamin A and k as well as many of the B vitamins. Alfalfa is one of the best natural sources of vitamin K. It is used to detoxify and alkalize the body. It is also used for treating arthritis, atherosclerosis, anemia, bad breath, cancer, constipation, diabetes, endometriosis, osteoporosis and ulcers. Seeds, sprouts, and the aboveground parts of the plant are used.

Bergamot (Monarda didyma) - Bergamot induces perspiration, lowers fevers, and through its carminative action, aids digestion. It has been used for colds, fevers, headaches, gastric disorders such as flatulence, nausea and vomiting.

Horsetail (Equisetum arvense) - No other herb on this planet has a higher silicon content. Silicon is the material of which collagen is made, and it promotes the growth and stability of the skeletal structure. When using Horsetail as an infusion, fractured bones will heal more quickly and osteoporosis is greatly reduced. It is also useful for bed-wetting and urinary incontinence, bursitis, emphysema and hemorrhoids.

Do not use while pregnant or nursing. Do not use if you have prostate cancer, cardiac disease or high blood pressure. Not for use by small children.

Oatstraw (Avena sativa) - Oat straw is very useful for nourishing the nervous and hormonal systems. Regular usage has been shown to alleviate mild depression and help to balance blood sugar levels. The nourishing properties of this herb make it a useful in treating eczema, attention deficit disorders, and nervous exhaustion.

Raspberry Leaf (Rubus idaeus) - A popular uterine stimulant with astringent and tonic properties. Raspberry leaf is one of the most popular pregnancy herbs because it has both relaxing and toning or astringent actions, with a particular affinity for the uterus. The astringent and stimulating properties help to strengthen and tone up the uterine and pelvic muscles, while the relaxing and more soothing properties relax the uterus at the same time.

Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) Red Clover infusion prevents and eases the constipation so common during pregnancy. It also strengthens the liver and improves the appetite, especially when morning sickness is a problem, and it relieves anxiety. Red clover blossom infusion is one of the world's best remedies for infertility, no matter what the cause. It nourishes the health of both eggs and sperm, opens blocked fallopian tubes, adjusts hormones, and generally makes the entire body more receptive to pregnancy. It is also highly regarded as an anti-cancer remedy. It is considered safe for consumption by pregnant and lactating women.

Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) - It is often used to reduce inflammation in allergic resposes, arthritis and lupus. Being very high in iron,chlorophyl and vitamin C, it is also a good tonic for treating anemia, especially if used as an infusion over many weeks. An infusion of the leaf is said to be a nourishing tonic during pregnancy and lactation. It's also a helpful uterine tonic. The high clorophyll and mineral content are good for the hormonal system.

Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus) - The roots of yellow dock are very high in minerals, especially calcium, which makes this an excellent herb for treating anemia. It is also used as a blood purifier to treat skin disorders like eczema and psoriasis. Yellow Dock is a good tonic for the liver and gallbladder as well.

Quiz:

1. Herbal infusions can be used externally as skin washes, compresses, douches, or as ______.

2. When using dried flowers put 1 ounce (a large handful) into a ______jar.

3. Infusum Caryophylli is infusion of ______.

4. A very valuable infusion as a wash or gargle in various forms of sore mouth and ulcerated sore throat is Compound Infusion of ______.

5. Alfalfa is one of the best natural sources of vitamin ___.

6. ______is often used to reduce inflammation in allergic responses, arthritis and lupus.

7. Infusum Aurantii Compositum is used chiefly as a ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Six - Herbal Poultices

Saw Palmetto

The name Althea is derived from the Greek Altho, meaning to heal, and its medicinal qualities have been recognized since Ancient Egyptian times. Theophrastus reported that the root could be added to sweet wine to relieve coughs. Horace and Martial mentioned the laxative properties of the leaves and root; and Pliny wrote that "whosoever shall take a spoonful of the Mallows shall that day be free from all diseases that may come to him". Marshmallow is mentioned in the Bible and in Arabic and Chinese history as a valuable food during times of famine.

Poultices and plasters are generally the same thing: mashed and/or heated botanical applied to the skin as a dressing. The major difference between modern poultices and plasters is that plasters tend to have a layer of cloth between them and the skin, but the terms are often used interchangeably. The term Cataplasm is a synonym for poultice.

Poultices help the body to absorb herbal compounds through the skin. A poultice is a moist paste made from crushed herbs that is applied directly to the affected area, or wrapped in cloth to keep it in place and then applied. Poultices are useful for treating bruises, wounds, and abscesses. Use only fresh herbs for poultices.

Cold poultices:

Cold poultices, such as plantain, provide cool moist heat. Soothing mucilaginous herbs and botanicals such as plantain and oatmeal are supposed to soothe the heat of a wound or injury, and ease skin irritation.

Collect a large quantity of the fresh herb, mash/bruise/macerate it with a mortar and pestle, or grind it to a paste in a food processor (for small hurts, chew a leaf of plantain to serve as a poultice).

If you must use dry herb, reconstitute it by soaking in water, or better, make an infusion and use as a compress. Powders can be mixed with water to form a paste, spread it on the affected part.

Hot poultices:

Hot poultices provide moist heat. Hot grain poultices used to be used simply for this purpose in veterinary practice. Hot poultices and compresses can be used to ―draw‖ things like wound infections, pimples and boils to the surface. Hot applications to the face, neck, and chest have been used to combat congestion.

Gather a large quantity of the fresh herb. (Use dried herb only when absolutely necessary.)

Bruise or macerate and cook with a little water until hot, or mix powder with a little hot water to form a paste.

Apply to the affected area and cover with a cloth or bandage to keep the heat in.

Mucilaginous poultices such as plantain and marshmallow root can stay on longer than those with active ingredients.

Cataplasma Conii. — Hemlock Poultice.

Preparation.—This poultice is official in the British Pharmacopoeia, and is prepared as follows: One fluid ounce of hemlock juice is evaporated to 1/2 fluid ounce, and this is added to a mixture of 4 ounces of linseed-meal in 10 ounces of boiling water, and the whole stirred together. Conium extract may be substituted for hemlock juice if so desired, though the juice only is directed by the above-mentioned authority.

Action and Medical Uses.—this poultice is desirable when a preparation of this class is needed with pain-relieving properties. It has been employed in malignant sores, being especially valuable in cancer.

Cataplasma Phytolaccae. — Poke-Root Poultice.

Preparation.—Place fresh poke-root in hot ashes to roast, when sufficiently done, mash it and form a cataplasm.

Action and Medical Uses.—this may be applied to all kinds of tumors in order to discuss them; or if they be too far advanced, it will hasten suppuration. In the latter instance its action is accompanied with much pain. It is applicable when it is desired to hasten suppuration in mastitis. It is especially valuable in tumors of an indolent character, as buboes. It should be renewed 2 or 3 times a day.

Cataplasma Ulmi. — Elm Poultice.

Preparation.—Take of powdered elm bark (Ulmus fulva) a sufficient quantity; stir it in hot water, or milk and water, to the consistence of a cataplasm (Beach's American Practice).

Action and Medical Uses.—this cataplasm is of almost universal application, and is superior, in many respects, to every other. As an application to painful swellings, inflammations, ulcerations, and to facilitate the separation of the slough produced by caustics, and for various other purposes, it stands, and justly, too, in high repute among American physicians.

Cataplasma Oxycocci. — Cranberry Poultice.

Preparation.—Take of ripe cranberries, any quantity, and bruise them to form a cataplasm.

Action and Medical Uses. — Applied around the throat in quinsy, and in swelling of the glands of the throat in scarlatina and other diseases, its action is prompt. It has been likewise reputed useful in cancerous ulcers, erysipelatous inflammation, and gouty rheumatism. A split cranberry, secured in position by a daub of starch, is recommended for boils on the tip of the nose, when a poultice cannot be retained in place.

Cataplasma Lobeliae. - Lobelia Poultice.

Preparation.—To equal parts by weight of powdered lobelia and fine elm bark, add a sufficient quantity of weak lye, warm, to form a cataplasm.

Action and Medical Uses.—this forms an excellent application to felons, white-swelling, wounds, fistula, inflammation of the breast and other parts, stings of insects, erysipelatous inflammations, and painful swellings or ulcerations. It should be frequently renewed.

Cataplasma Dauci. — Carrot Poultice.

Preparation.—Take of garden carrots, scraped, 4 ounces, Indian meal (corn meal), 1 ounce, boiling water, a sufficient quantity to form a cataplasm of the proper consistence.

Action and Medical Uses.—This will be found a valuable application to indolent and gangrenous ulcers, and painful tumors.

Cataplasma Lini. — Linseed Poultice.

Preparation.—to boiling water, 10 fluid ounces, add gradually, powdered flaxseed, 4 1/2 ounces, or a sufficient quantity; stir constantly, so as to make cataplasm (Lond.).

The British Pharmacopoeia directs 4 ounces of linseed-meal. If American "cake-meal" be employed, the addition of about 1/4 ounce of olive oil will be necessary. Some prefer a mixture of linseed-meal and cake-meal for this purpose.

Action and Medical Uses. — this is a valuable emollient cataplasm, to allay pain, inflammation, and favor suppuration. It is used for similar purposes with the elm poultice. If it should decompose, as it is apt to do, it may vesicate, or at least cause a pustular eruption, sweet oil, lard, glycerin, or olive oil may be mixed with or spread upon the poultice, both as a preservative and preventive. Flaxseed poultice causes the skin to be blanched, sodden, and wrinkled. Flaxseed poultice is frequently employed in acute pulmonic disorders.

Some herbs that are used as a poultice:

Adam & Eve (Aplectrum hyemale): The root is used and its medicinal properties are Analgesic; Pectoral; Poultice.

Althea (Althea officinalis) The roots, leaves, and flowers mixed with Slippery Elm is used as a poultice.

St. Johns Wort ((Hypericum perforatum) For wound treatment: Apply crushed leaves and flowers to the affected area after you have cleaned it with soap and water. Active constituents are Hypericin, pseudohypericin, procyanidins, glycosides, flavonoids, tannins, resin and volatile oil.

Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris) is used as a poultice for wounds, bruises and ulcers. The whole plant is used. Its active constituents are Betulinic-acid, D-Camphor, Delphinidin, Hyperoside, Manganese, Oleanolic-acid, Rosmarinic-acid, Rutin, Ursolic-acid, and Tannins. Best when collected in Midsummer.

Slippery Elm (Ulmus fulva): The inner bark is used as a poultice for inflammations. Active constituents are Mucilage, polyuronides, starch and tannin.

Some Poultice recipes:

Sage and Vinegar Poultice

Bruise whole fresh sage leaves by flattening them with a rolling pin, but do not break or tear them. Put the leaves into a pan and barely cover with vinegar. Simmer gently for five minutes over a very low heat. The vinegar should not boil, but it should steam so that the sage leaves soften and blanch. After five minutes, remove the leaves and lay them on a cloth. Work quickly, but carefully, as the leaves will be very hot. Fold the cloth into a package which will just cover the affected area. Apply as hot as can be tolerated and cover with towels to retain the heat. Leave on for an hour or so until the swelling has subsided. Sage and Vinegar poultices are traditional for treating bruises or sprains. Vinegar brings bruises to the surface, cooling and reducing swelling. When used together, they are unsurpassed for easing sprains.

Vinegar and Brown Paper Poultice

Put five or six sheets of strong brown paper into a pan and cover with sage vinegar. Place a lid on the pan and steam over a very low heat for a few minutes. The time will depend on the type of paper used. It should soften and absorb some of the vinegar without breaking or disintegrating. Remove the paper and wrap it in overlapping layers around the affected part. Apply as hot as possible and build up several layers. Cover with plastic wrap and bandage in place. Leave for four hours and reapply twice a day until the swelling and bruising have subsided.

Clay Poultice

4 ounces to one pound (depending on the area to be covered) of pure, green, healing clay

Distilled water

Mix the clay with enough water to make a thick paste. Spread with a spoon onto the center of a piece of cloth, as a diaper, an area that corresponds to the affected area of the skin. Apply the clay directly to the area, pressing it into the flesh so that it adheres. Cover with a dry cloth and leave on until the clay pulls away of its own accord. This indicates that the therapy is completed.

Comfrey or Plantain Poultice

Fresh comfrey or plantain leaves Distilled water

Blend the leaves and water together in a blender or with a mortar and pestle until mucilage is formed. Place on a gauze pad and apply to the affected area. Wrap with a bandage to hold in place. A little olive oil applied to the area first will prevent the poultice from adhering to the wound and prevent any skin irritation that may arise from sensitivities to the plant. Both can be used on deep cuts, scrapes, stings, and burns, as well as to draw out such foreign objects as splinters or glass. Faithful application will eventually see the skin regenerate.

Onion Poultice

3 large fresh, organic onions Distilled water

Slice onions thinly, and then sauté them in a small amount of distilled water until transparent. Fold half into a diaper so that the finished pack is approximately 8x8 inches. Apply to the chest as hot as can be tolerated and immediately cover with a towel to hold in the heat. Begin preparing another poultice with the other half of the onions. When the first one is cool, immediately replace it with the second. After treatment, gently dry the chest and tuck the patient into bed to rest. This is used in cases of deep lung congestion and bronchial inflammation. It will bring penetrating relief from the annoying itch when it hurts too much to cough. It can also be applied over the ear and lymph nodes to treat ear aches only make the poultice smaller.

Quiz:

1. Cold poultices provide cool moist ______.

2. A split cranberry, secured in position by a daub of starch, is recommended for boils on the tip of the _____.

3. The medicinal properties of Aplectrum hyemale, are ______, ______and ______.

4. The name Althea is derived from the Greek ______.

5. A Vinegar and Brown Paper Poultice is left in place for ______.

6. Flaxseed poultice is frequently employed in ______disorders.

7. Cataplasma Conii is employed in ______, being especially valuable in cancer.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Seven - Mucilage’s

Iceland moss

The earliest fragmentary herbal records are Egyptian, Sumerian, and Chinese. Emperor Shen Nung composed the Pen T'sao Ching about 2700 BCE; medical prescriptions are listed on a 5000 year-old Sumerian tablet; and the earliest surviving herbal is the Papyrus Ebers from about 1550 BCE, containing material gathered five to twenty centuries before. The earliest mention of Ginkgo Biloba as a medicine is found in the Chinese materia medica, Pen T'sao Ching (The Classic of Herbs). Some believe the Papyrus Ebers to be a copy of the even more ancient books of Thoth (3000 BCE), reputed father of medicine, pharmacy and alchemy.

Mucilage is a gummy substance obtained from certain plants. Nourishing the mucous membranes of the digestive tract can be done by using herbal mucilage’s and enzymes. Mucilage’s are herbs that have properties to soothe inflamed tissues. Gums and Mucilage’s are used to treat inflamed soft tissue, membranes and mucous linings. Mucilage herbs act as bulking agents and swell up within the gut. It is essential to drink lots of water. These bulking herbs will give a sensation of fullness, though it is generally short-term.

Mucilage herbs are often high in nutrients and they are complex carbohydrate molecules.

Some Useful Herbs:

Mallow (Althaea officinalis) - The roots of mallow are rich in beneficial mucilage. Boiled, they make a drink which is diuretic and soothing. A painful chest, as in bronchitis or flu, can obtain relief from this drink too. Marsh Mallow contains starch, mucilage, pectin, oil, sugar, asparagin, phosphate of lime, glutinous matter and cellulose.

Burdock (Arctium lappa) The root is rich in vitamins B-complex and E. Its trace minerals include potassium, phosphorous, chromium, cobalt, iron, magnesium, silicon, zinc and sodium. It also contains; Inulin, mucilage, sugar, a bitter, crystalline glucoside (Lappin) and a little resin, fixed and volatile oils, and some tannic acid.

Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) - The root works longer in the intestines than does pepsin. Comfrey root's mucilage helps heal ulcers by coating them and destroying amoebic parasites. Comfrey root also acts as a strong deterrent to Escherichia coli and similar intestinal microorganisms by absorbing them and other toxins. It is highly esteemed for all pulmonary complaints and bleeding of the lungs.

A strong decoction, or tea, is recommended in cases of internal hemorrhage, whether from the lungs, stomach, bowels or from bleeding piles. To be taken every two hours till the hemorrhage ceases. In severe cases a teaspoonful of Witch Hazel extract being added to the Comfrey root tea.

Comfrey contains two alkaloids which, when taken in large quantities, have produced depression in the central nervous system. Comfrey may be contraindicated in patients on dietary potassium restrictions.

Sheep Sorrel (Rumex acetosella) - It is rich in Vitamin A, B complex, C, D, K, and E. Its minerals include significant levels of calcium, iron, magnesium, silicon, sulphur, zinc, maganese, iodine, and copper. Sheep Sorrel is also rich in potassium oxalate.

Slippery Elm Bark (Ulmus fulva) - Slippery Elm has a lubricating property which helps protect membranes linings, joints and relieves inflamed areas. It possesses as much nutrition as is contained in oatmeal.

Make a mucilage drink by mixing a teaspoonful of the powder into a thin and perfectly smooth paste with cold water and then pouring on a pint of boiling water, while steadily stirring. It can, if desired, be flavored with cinnamon, nutmeg or lemon rind. This makes an excellent drink in cases of irritation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines, and when taken at night will induce sleep.

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis) - Aloe vera gel is the leaf pulp or mucilage, a thin clear jelly-like substance obtained from the parenchymal tissue that makes up the inner portion of the leaves. The gel contains carbohydrate polymers, such as glucomannans or pectic acid, plus various other organic and inorganic compounds. Aloe gel has been used for topical treatment of wounds, minor burns, and skin irritations.

The only substantiated internal use is as a laxative. The anthroquinones and anthrones in the aloe latex produce their laxative effect by increasing colonic peristalsis and increasing the intestinal water content by opening chloride channels of the colonic membrane to cause a net reduction of liquid absorption by the colon. The anthroquinone glycosides reach the colon for the most part, undigested, although some are metabolized by enzymes produced by intestinal bacteria. The result includes more frequent stools with softer consistency. Aloe vera has six antiseptic agents (sulphur, lupeol, salicylic acid, cinnamic acid, urea nitrogen and phenol) which act in unison to provide antimicrobial activity.

Papaya Leaf (Carica papaya) - The fruit yields an enzyme, papain, best known as a digestive aid. Pepsin is an enzyme that helps digest protein in the body. Since stomach ailments are the direct result of indigestion, Papaya may help prevent and remedy these by increasing digestive processes.

The leaf contains beta-carotene, calcium, carpaine, fats, flavonols, niacin, papain, tannins, and vitamin C (in higher concentration in the leaf than in the fruit). The leaf, unlike the fruit, is not a source of the protein-dissolving enzyme papain, but the latex (sap) in the leaf stem is.

Excessive use of this herb can result in a very strong laxative effect.

Iceland Moss (Cetraria islandica) - Iceland moss is rich in mucilage’s and its demulcent action is of value in the treatment of gastritis, gastric ulcer, hiatus hernia, reflux oesophagitis, vomiting and dyspepsia. It helps to contain vomiting arising from irritation and inflammation of the stomach. Iceland moss contains mucilage (including 40% lichenin and 10% isolichenin); bitter lichen acids (including fumaroprotocetraric, protocetraric, cetraric and usnic acids), some iodine, traces of vitamin A.

Quiz:

1. Sheep Sorrel is also rich in ______.

2. Boiled Mallow makes a drink which is ______and ______

3. Papain, is best known as a ______.

4. A strong decoction, or tea of Comfrey, is recommended in cases of ______.

5. Iceland Moss helps to contain ______.

6. Emperor Shen Nung composed the ______about 2700 BCE.

7. The crystalline glucoside, Lappin, is found in ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Eight - Herbal Syrups

Licorice

Hippocrates (460-377 BCE), "the father of medical literature" as he is called, was so far as we know the first man to practice medicine as an art. Hippocrates believed and taught that in nature there was strength to cure disease. Often, Hippocrates used diet and herbs as the basis of treatment.

The Oath of Hippocrates

I swear by Apollo, the physician, and Aesculepius and Health and All-Heal and all the gods and goddesses that according to my ability and judgment, I will keep this oath and stipulation:

To reckon him who taught me this art equally dear to me as my parents, to share my substance with him and relieve his necessities if required; to regard his offspring as on the same footing with my own brothers, and to teach them this art if they should wish to learn it, without fee or stipulation, and that by precept, lecture and every other mode of instruction, I will impart a knowledge of the art to my own sons and to those of my teachers, and to disciples bound by a stipulation and oath, according to the law of medicine, but to none others.

I will follow that method of treatment which, according to my ability and judgment, I consider for the benefit of my patients, and abstain from whatever is deleterious and mischievous. I will give no deadly medicine to anyone if asked, nor suggest any such counsel; I will not give to a woman an instrument to produce abortion. With purity and with holiness I will pass my life and practice my art. I will not cut a person who is suffering from a stone, but will leave this to be done by practitioners of this work. Into whatever houses I enter I will go into them for the benefit of the sick and will abstain from every voluntary act of mischief and corruption; and further from the seduction of females or males, bond or free. Whatever, in connection with my professional practice, or not in connection with it, I may see or hear in the lives of men which ought not to be spoken abroad I will not divulge, as reckoning that all such should be kept secret. While I continue to keep this oath inviolate, may it be granted to me to enjoy life and the practice of the art, respected by all men at all times but should I trespass and violate this oath, may the reverse be my lot.

Syrups are made by boiling infusions, decoctions, or juices with sugar or honey. They can be taken alone by the teaspoonful, added to food, or mixed with water as a julep. Syrups can be made from many different herbs. Do your research before mixing various herbs.

King's American Dispensatory.

by Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D., 1898.

Syrupus Acaciae - Syrup of Acacia.

Preparation.— Mucilage of acacia, recently prepared, twenty-five cubic centimeters (25 Cc.); syrup, seventy-five cubic centimeters (75 Cc.) to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.). Mix them. This syrup should be freshly prepared when required.

Mucilage of acacia is easily and very quickly decomposed, and the formula of the U. S. P. (1870) is, by some, regarded as preferable to the preceding. It is made practically as follows: Dissolve 2 troy ounces of gum Arabic (in pieces) in 8 fluid ounces of water, without heat, add 14 ounces of coarsely-powdered refined sugar, and, by aid of gentle heat, dissolve it, and then strain the product. Momentarily heating the preparation to 100° C. (212° F.) is thought advisable by some.

Action and Medical Uses.—Demulcent for catarrhal disorders of the throat, and as a fever drink. It may be used as a medium for suspending powders when about to be swallowed.

Syrupus Amygdalae - Syrup of Almond

Preparation.—Sweet almond, one hundred and forty grammes (140 Gm.) [4 ozs. av., 411 grs.]; bitter almond, forty grammes (40 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 180 grs.]; sugar, two hundred grammes (200 Gm.) [7 ozs. av., 24 grs.]; orange-flower water, one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]; water, one hundred and thirty cubic centimeters (130 Cc.) [4 fl, 190]; syrup, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Rub the almonds, previously blanched, in a mortar, with one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.] of the sugar and thirty cubic centimeters (30 Cc.) [1 fl, 7] of water to a smooth paste. Mix this well with the orange-flower water and two hundred cubic centimeters (200 Cc.) [6 fl, 366] of syrup, and strain with strong expression. To the residue add one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183] of water, and express again. In the strained liquid dissolve the remainder of the sugar, without heat, adding enough syrup to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Keep the syrup in well-stopper, completely filled bottles, in a cool place"—(U. S. P.).

Action and Medical Uses.—A feebly sedative preparation, used considerably in admixture with diuretics and expectorants in irritable conditions of the renal and broncho-pulmonic tracts.

Syrupus Limonis - Syrup of Lemon.

Preparation.—"Take of fresh lemon peel, 2 ounces (av.); lemon juice, strained, 1 pint (Imp.); refined sugar, 2 1/4 pounds (av.). Heat the lemon juice to the boiling point, and, having put it into a covered vessel with the lemon peel let them stand until they are cold, then filter, and dissolve the sugar in the filtered liquid with the aid of heat. The product should weigh 3 1/2 pounds (av.), and its specific gravity be about 1.340"—(Br. Pharm., 1885). The British Pharmacopoeia (1898) directs the previous maceration of the lemon peel for 7 days in alcohol of 90 per cent, pressing off the tincture and mixing it with the lemon juice and sugar.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—when diluted with water, this forms an agreeable drink for febrile affections when an acid is indicated. Dose, 1 fluid drachm, well diluted.

Syrupus Zingiberis - Syrup of Ginger.

Preparation.—"Fluid extract of ginger, thirty cubic centimeters (30 Cc) precipitated calcium phosphate, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [232 grs.]; sugar, eight hundred and fifty grammes (850 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 13 ozs., 430 grs.]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, Triturate the fluid extract of ginger with the precipitated calcium phosphate, and expose the mixture in a warm place until the alcohol has evaporated. Then triturate the residue with four hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (450 Cc.) 15 fl, of water, and filter. In the filtrate dissolve the sugar by agitation, without heat, strain, and pass enough water through the filter to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) 33 fl. Mix thoroughly. Syrup of ginger may also be prepared in the following manner: Prepare a percolator or funnel in the manner described under syrup (see Syrupus). Pour the filtrate obtained as directed in the preceding formula upon the sugar, return the first portions of the percolate, until it runs through clear, and, when all the liquid has passed, follow it by water, until the product measures one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) 33 fl. Mix thoroughly".

"Take of strong tincture of ginger, 6 fluid drachms; syrup, sufficient to produce 20 fluid ounces (Imp.). Mix with agitation"—(Br. Pharm., 1885). This produces milky syrup.

Take of Jamaica ginger, in a uniform coarse powder, 4 ounces; water, deodorized alcohol, each, a sufficient quantity; carbonate of magnesium, 1 ounce; refined sugar, 20 pounds. Pack the ginger in a percolator, and slowly pour on it the alcohol, until 8 fluid ounces of tincture have passed; evaporate this spontaneously, or at 48.8° C. (120° F.), until it is reduced to 3 fluid ounces. Triturate it with the carbonate of magnesium and 2. ounces of the sugar, gradually adding 2 pints of water. Filter, and add enough water to make 8 pints of filtrate, to which add the rest of the sugar, in a covered vessel, and dissolve by a very gentle heat. If necessary, strain the syrup, while hot, through a damp cotton-flannel bag (Prof. Procter). This forms beautiful, clear syrup, free from turbidity, possessing a decided taste of the ginger, with most of its medicinal virtues. That made by the official process is yellowish, and has the strong pungency and characteristic odor of ginger.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Syrup of ginger is used as a remedy in atonic bowel complaints of children, and as a stimulating aromatic addition to various medicinal preparations. The dose is from 1/2 fluid drachm to 2, 3, or 4 fluid drachms.

Syrupus Mori - Syrup of Mulberries.

Preparation.—"Take of mulberry juice, 1 pint (Imp.); refined sugar, 2 1/4 pounds (av.); rectified spirit, 2 1/2 fluid ounces. Heat the mulberry juice to the boiling point, and, when it has cooled, filter it. Dissolve the sugar in the filtered liquid by the aid of heat, and add the spirit. The product should weigh 3 pounds, 6 ounces (av.), and its specific gravity is about 1.330"—(Br. Pharm., 1885).

Raspberry (more), pineapple (more), currant (more/more), strawberry (more), blackberry (more/more/more), and other fruit syrups may be made after this method, or by the one followed in making Syrupus Rubi Idaei. The object of heating in this instance is to coagulate and separate the albumen present. Only porcelain or enameled-iron vessels should be used in preparing syrups from acid juices.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this syrup is used chiefly to flavor fever drinks and so- called "soda water" (carbonic acid water). The dose, as given in the British Pharmacopoeia, is 1 fluid drachm.

Syrupus Lobeliae - Syrup of Lobelia.

Preparation.—Take of vinegar of lobelia, 1 pint; sugar, 2 pounds. Dissolve with the aid of a gentle heat, and strain while hot.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this forms pleasant expectorant syrup, and although the volatile properties of lobelia are dissipated by heat, this syrup will be found sufficiently active for practical purposes; the long-continued digestion removes the peculiar, disagreeable taste of the lobelia. It will be found very useful in infantile catarrh, pertussis, croup, pectoral diseases, to produce emesis, and to bring the system under the relaxing influence of lobelia. The dose is from 1 fluid drachm to 1/2 fluid ounce

Syrupus Cinnamomi - Syrup of Cinnamon.

Preparation.—"Cinnamon (cassia), in moderately coarse powder, one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.] ; alcohol, fifty cubic centimeters (50 Cc.) [1 fl, 332]; sugar, seven hundred grammes (700 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 8 ozs., 303 grs.]; cinnamon water (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl 391]. Mix the alcohol with four hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (450 Cc.) [15 fl, 104] of cinnamon water, moisten the cinnamon with a sufficient quantity of this menstruum and allow it to macerate for about 2 hours. Then transfer it to a small percolator, and percolate in the usual manner, using first the remainder of the menstruum above directed and afterward cinnamon water. Collect the first five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435] of the percolate separately, and dissolve in it the sugar. Then collect an additional quantity of percolate, and add it to the syrup, so as to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Note.—this preparation is practically identical with that official in the German Pharmacopoeia"—(Nat. Form.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—this syrup is a warm aromatic stomachic, carminative, and astringent. It is chiefly used as an adjuvant to other less pleasant medicines, especially in the treatment of diarrhoea, dysentery, hemorrhages, and where astringents are indicated. It may be given in doses of 1 or 2 fluid drachms.

Some Herbal Syrup recipes:

Sugar syrup recipe:

In a glass, ceramic, enamel or stainless steel pot, mix the juice, decoction, or infusion with honey or sugar: 1 part juice/infusion to 1 part honey, or 1 part juice infusion to 1 to 1.5 parts sugar. (For light syrup, you can use as little as 1 part sugar to 2 parts liquid.)

Heat to a simmer. Strong syrups can be simmered to reduce by 1/3 to 1/2, but oils will be lost. Pour into a clean bottle and cap tightly. Strong sugar/honey syrups (reduced by 1/2) can often be stored in the cupboard; but others should be stored under refrigeration or canned.

Garlic Syrup:

For coughs, colds, sore throats, bronchial congestion, high and/or low blood pressure, heart problems and nervous disorders. Take 1 tablespoon, 3 times a day before meals.

1 pound peeled and crushed garlic cloves Apple cider vinegar Pure water 1 cup glycerine 1 cup honey

Put the peeled and crushed garlic cloves in a wide-mouthed 2-quart jar. Add equal parts of apple cider vinegar and pure water until the jar is 3/4 full. Cap the jar loosely and let the mixture stand in a warm place for 4 days. Shake the jar several times a day. Add the glycerin. Shake thoroughly to blend. Allow the mixture to stand in a warm place for 1 more day, shaking several limes. Strain the mixture through cheesecloth or muslin, squeezing to remove all of the garlic pieces. Return the mixture to the jar. Add the honey and stir until thoroughly mixed. Store the garlic syrup in a cool; dry place.

Wild Cherry Syrup:

2 teaspoons Wild Cherry bark 2 teaspoons Cubeb berries 2 teaspoons mullein 2 teaspoons skunk cabbage 2 teaspoons lobelia herb 4 pounds brown sugar juice of 4 lemons

Place the first 5 ingredients in a large kettle and add 2 quarts of boiling water. Let simmer for 20 minutes.

Let stand covered until nearly cold, and then strain through a doubled cheese cloth. Put in a large non-metal cooking pan and add the four pounds of brown sugar. Boil this down to medium thick syrup. Add the juice of 4 lemons and let boil for two or three minutes longer. Strain again. When cool, it is ready for use or for bottling.

Strawberry balm syrup:

Refreshing and very delicious, with ice cream, waffles, or mixed in a drink.

2 pt Strawberries 3 c Sugar; approximately 10 Lemon balm sprigs fresh 2 pt Raspberries 3 c Sugar; approximately 10 Thyme sprigs

You can substitute lemon verbena or lemon thyme as well.

To make a drink put several tablespoons in bottom of glass add cold or sparkling water and ice. Wash and hull the strawberries and then place in a bowl and crush with a potato masher. Line a medium bowl with cheesecloth pour the crushed strawberries and the juice into the cloth then gather up the corners and squeeze until all the juice has been extracted. Weigh the juice then combine it with an equal amount of sugar and the lemon balm in a non-aluminum saucepan. Bring to a boil and allow boiling for 5 minutes. Remove from the heat and skim any foam from the top and let cool. Discard the lemon balm before bottling.

Store in the refrigerator. It makes 1/2 to 1 full pint.

Cough and Sore Throat Syrup

2 parts Slippery Elm Bark 2 parts Valerian root 1 part Wild Cherry bark 2 parts Licorice root 1 part Ginger 1 part Cinnamon bark 4 parts Fennel Seeds 1/8 part Orange Peel

Use 2 ounces of herb mixture to one quart of water. Simmer the liquid down to one pint. This will give you a very strong, thick tea. Strain the herbs out and add in your sweetener. Drink either 1 or 2 cups. You may need to warm the liquid for everything to dissolve and mix well. Add in any brandy, essential oils and/or fruit concentrates. Mix again and bottle

Verbena Simple Syrup:

2 cups water 2 cups sugar Generous handful fresh lemon verbena leaves

Bring all ingredients to a boil, then let cool to room temperature. Remove lemon verbena leaves - the syrup should be a light yellow-green color and have the definite flavor and odor of lemon verbena. This syrup has an infinite number of uses; here are some of my favorites:

Use it to sweeten your favorite herbal, black or green tea. Brush it over your favorite white or citrus cake or sweetbreads and muffins; this will add a delicate flavor and help keep your baked goods extra moist. Gently drizzle over a bowl of freshly sliced strawberries, blueberries, or peaches. Use as a sweetener on top of crepes, French toast, or pancakes.

Invigorating Syrup

This syrup is used to ward of the effects of aging and to be mentally and physically aware.

In a bowl mix the following herbs:

2 cups Alfalfa 2 cups Bilberry 1 cup Butcher's Broom 2 cups Ginkgo Biloba leaves 1 cup Nettles leaf 2 cups Korean or Siberian Ginseng 1/2 cup turmeric 1 teaspoon Cayenne

For a male tonic, place 1 cup crushed Saw Palmetto berries into a pint jar and soak for 3 weeks. For a woman add 1 cup red raspberry leaves to the above mixture.

If the recipient has heart problems add 1/2 cup ground Hawthorn berries.

Double the Bilberry if the person has vision problems like cataracts, nearsightedness, glaucoma, etc.

Add a cup of St. John's Wort if they struggle with anxiety or nervousness.

Take one quart jar and fill 1/3 full with herb mixture (Take whole or cut herbs and grind them in a blender or crush them). Wet the herbs with about 1/2 cup of water. Then fill the jar to within 1 inch of the top with vegetable glycerin. Put your crock pot on low. Fill with water and place quart jar filled with mixture in the water. Let steep in the crock pot on low for 3 days.

An adult dose is 1-2 teaspoons 2-3 times a day.

Energy Syrup

This formula will make syrup with easily digestible vitamins and minerals. It is high in iron, calcium, vitamin A and many other trace minerals.

2 parts nettles leaf 3 parts dandelion leaf 3 parts dandelion root 3 parts raspberry leaf 2 parts watercress 2 parts alfalfa leaf 1 part hawthorn berries 1 part yellow dock root 1 part dulse 1/4 part horsetail

Place 2 ounces of herb mixture in 1 quart of water and on low heat boil down to a pint. Strain and add 1-2 cups of sweetener. Warm and mix thoroughly. Add 1/4 cup Brandy

1/4 cup any fruit concentrate (I like Black Cherry Concentrate). It adds lots of flavor and is used to dissolve crystals in the body such as kidney and gall stones. It also dissolves crystals in the joints that make them stiff and cause arthritis. Do not add juice, it will dilute the syrup and cause it to spoil.

Suggested Dosage: 4-6 Tablespoons

Honey Cough Syrup:

1 tablespoon licorice root 1 tablespoon marshmallow root 1 tablespoon plantain leaf 1 teaspoon thyme leaf 1 pint water 4 tablespoons honey 4 ounces vegetable glycerin 1/8 teaspoon anise essential oil (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare a triple-strength tea by simmering the herbs in water for 10 minutes, then steeping for 20 minutes. Strain the tea, and then stir in honey and glycerin while the tea is still warm. Add optional essential oil. Take 1 tablespoon at a time.

Stored in a cool place, this syrup will keep for 2 weeks. In the refrigerator, it will keep for several months.

This recipe is suitable for children, but not for infants.

Quiz:

1. Syrups are made by boiling infusions, decoctions, or juices with ______or ______.

2. Syrupus Mori is used chiefly to flavor ______.

3. Syrupus Cinnamomi is chiefly used as an adjuvant to other less ______.

4. For nervous disorders, ______syrup is recommended.

5. Energy syrup is high in vitamin ___.

6. A feebly sedative preparation is Syrup of ______.

7. Syrup of ______is a demulcent for catarrhal disorders of the throat, and is a fever drink.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Nine - Decoctions

Dandelion

During the prime of the Tang Dynasty (618 – 907 A.D.), a caravan on the Silk Road stopped for a rest at an inn and noticed a young lady reprimanding and whipping an old man. A merchant approached them and enquired the young lady, ―For what reason are you assaulting and abusing this elderly person?‖ The lady replied, ―I am disciplining my great-grandson. It is none of your business.‖ Everyone at the scene was shocked by her reply. Further enquiries revealed that the lady was more than three hundred years old! The old person was being punished because he refused to take a type of herb and started to age. Amazed at the magic of the herb, the merchant bowed to the lady with respect and asked, ―May I be so bold as to ask the lady what type of magical herb do you take?‖ The lady replied, ―This herb has five names. You want to take a different part of the herb each season. In spring you take its leaves, which are known as the essence of heaven herb. In summer you take its flowers, which are known as the longevity herb. In autumn you take its fruits, which are known as Chinese Wolfberry. In winter you take the bark of its roots, which is known as the skin and bone of the earth, or the staff of the deities. Taking these four parts in the four seasons respectively, will give you a life as lofty as heaven and earth.‖

Thereafter the Chinese Wolfberry was introduced to the Middle East and Western countries and was eulogized as the divine herb from the East.

The earliest written information about therapy by bathing with decoctions of aromatic herbs is contained in the Indian Vedas dating back to 1500 BCE.

A decoction is a tea-like liquid made by boiling your herbs in water (rather than steeping them in water that has already boiled).

In a ceramic or stainless steel pot, combine water with an appropriate amount of the herbs. Bring the water to a boil, and boil 15 minutes (for fresh or very aromatic ingredients) to half an hour (dried ingredients). Strain the liquid through a strainer or cloth; add sweetener if desired. Pour into a clean, hot jar and close tightly.

Some decoctions are used hot; others are cooled and used cold. Decoctions will keep, refrigerated, about 3-6 days.

The solution procured from the various parts of plants, by boiling them in water, is called a decoction. Decoctions are generally prepared from those herbs which do not readily yield their active constituents to water, at a temperature below 100° C. (212° F.). Yet it must be remembered, that as most plants contain starch, gum, and other inert matters, which are readily soluble in boiling water, these will generally be found associated with the remedial principles in a decoction. Medicines containing volatile principles, or substances liable to be changed into insoluble and inert matters at a boiling heat, should never be subjected to decoction.

Or

A decoction is also similar to an infusion, and necessary when using tougher plant material like herbal roots, barks, seeds, berries, and stems. These parts need to have their active components extracted in a more intense process.

Chop up the plant material thinly. Use 1-2 teaspoons of the dried or fresh herbs for 1 ½ pints of water. Place the herbs in a saucepan with the water, and boil the decoction. Simmer the mixture until the volume of the liquid has been reduced by about a third. This will take about 15 minutes. Strain the mixture. The decoction should be used in three wine-glass-sized doses throughout the day. It should be stored in a pitcher in a cool place. The decoction can be reheated and flavored with a little honey if desired.

Decoctum Aloes Compositum (N. F.) - Compound Decoction of Aloes.

Preparation.—Formulary number, 29: "Extract of aloes (U. S. P.), ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs]; myrrh, seven and one-half grammes (7.5 Gm.) [115 grs.]; saffron, seven and one- half grammes (7.5 Gm.) [115 grs.]; potassium carbonate, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]; extract of glycyrrhiza, in powder, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 102 grs.]; compound tincture of cardamom (U. S. P.), two hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (250 Cc.) [8 f1, 218]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 f1, 391]. Reduce the myrrh and extract of aloes to a coarse powder, mix this with the potassium carbonate and extract of liquorice in a suitable covered vessel, and pour on six hundred cubic centimeters (600 Cc.) [20 fl, 138] of water; boil for 5 minutes and add the saffron. When cool, add the compound tincture of cardamom, and allow the mixture to macerate for 2 hours; then filter through flannel and add enough water to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. This preparation should be freshly made when wanted for use"—(Nat. Form.).

This decoction contains the same ingredients, and varies but little in proportions from that official in the British Pharmacopoeia.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Compound decoction of aloes is employed like compound tincture of aloes and myrrh, though the decoction is less stimulating. It is a gentle cathartic and emmenagogue for atonic states, as constipation and amenorrhoea. The dose is 1/2 to 2 fluid ounces.

Decoctum Taraxaci - Decoction of Dandelion.

Preparation.—Slice and bruise 1 ounce (av.) of dried dandelion root, and boil it in 1 pint (Imp.) of distilled water for 10 minutes; strain, and pour upon the residue in the strainer enough distilled water to make the finished product measure 1 pint (Imp.). This is in accordance with the British Pharmacopoeia. A little orange peel added at the end of the boiling period, is said to increase its usefulness. It does not keep well and must be freshly prepared.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—(See Taraxacum.) This may be employed as a vehicle for the simple bitters. The dose is about 2 fluid ounces before meals.

Decoctum Hordei - Decoction of Barley.

Synonym: Barley water.

Preparation.—Wash 2 ounces (av.) of pearl barley in cold water and throw away the washings. Then boil the barley in a closed vessel for 20 minutes, in 1 1/2 pints (Imp.) of distilled water, and strain. This is in accordance with the British Pharmacopoeia. Boiling the barley for 1 or 2 minutes will remove mustiness or other unpleasant extraneous matter, if present; better than washing in cold water.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage. — an admirable un-irritating, nutritious, and readily digestible drink for fevers or irritable states of the gastro-intestinal and urino-genital tracts. May be sweetened or acidulated when not contraindicated. The dose is 1 to 4 or more fluid ounces.

Decoctum Scoparii - Decoction of Broom.

Preparation — the British Pharmacopoeia directs the preparation of decoction of broom essentially as follows: Boil in a covered vessel 1 ounce (av.) of broom tops in a pint (Imp) of distilled water for 10 minutes. Strain and pour upon the residue in the strainer sufficient distilled water to produce a pint (Imp.) of the finished product.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage. — this is actively diuretic, and is useful in dropsically disorders. Care must be taken in its administration, as it may provoke renal and cystic irritation. The dose is about 2 fluid ounces, given so that from to 1 pint is taken in 24 hours.

Related Preparation - Decoctum Scoparii Compositum. Compound decoction of broom. Take of broom-tops, juniper berries, and dandelion root, of each, 1/2 troy ounce; water, Ojss. Boil down to 1 pint. The dose is from 1 to 2 fluid ounces.

Decoctum Ulmi - Decoction of Elm-Bark

Preparation.—Take 2 1/2 ounces (av.) of small pieces of elm-bark and boil in 1 pint of distilled water, for 10 minutes, in a suitable covered vessel; strain, and pour upon the residue in the strainer sufficient distilled water to make the finished decoction measure 1 pint. This is in accordance with the British Pharmacopoeia, of 1867.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — A mucilaginous, astringent, and bitter decoction. The dose is from 2 to 4 fluid ounces. Mucilage of slippery elm is preferable.

Decoctum Sarsae - Decoction of Sarsaparilla.

Synonym: Decoctum sarsaparillae.

Preparation.—Digest for 1 hour 2 1/2 ounces (av.) of transversely cut Jamaica sarsaparilla in 1 1/2 pints (Imp.) of distilled water. Then, in a closed vessel boil for 10 minutes. Cool, strain, and by the addition of distilled water, if necessary, bring the finished product to the measure of 1 pint (Imp.) This is in accordance with the British Pharmacopoeia.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — many prefer to use the bruised root, and to avoid boiling, for the longer the preparation is boiled the weaker it becomes. An infusion is preferable to the decoction. Digestion of the root at a temperature of about 80° C. (176° F.) is probably the best method. This decoction is but little employed. Its uses are those of sarsaparilla. Dose, 2 to 4 fluid ounces 4 times a day.

A Further Look at Herbal Decoctions and their uses:

Yusif Khoyi in 1311 CE prescribed bathing with juniper cones to ease allergic itch of the skin. According to Azerbaijani folk medicine, juniper baths are effective against allergic itch of the skin. It was recommended to carefully boil 50 juniper cones in 8 glasses (approximately 2 liters) of water and add the decoction to the bathtub.

In Azerbaijan, baths prepared with a 10 percent decoction of needles, cones, and branches of pine are considered a cure for allergic itch of the skin. Owing to counter-irritant and anti-inflammatory properties of the pine needle baths, they may relieve allergic itch.

An herbal decoction of Lemon Verbena protects and tones the venous system, improves digestion and can ease migraines.

Making a herbal concoction with equal amounts of mugwort, comfrey, white willow, pennyroyal, Agrimony, wintergreen and sage is great for relieving aching joints and sore muscles.

Make a strong decoction of Rue (Ruta graveolens), and then soak a compress and apply to the chest. This decoction/compress has been used beneficially for chronic bronchitis.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca) is made into a strong decoction by adding 1 oz. of herb to a pint of boiling water. The decoction is used for female disorders, and for allaying nervous irritability and inducing quiet and passivity of the whole nervous system. Take in wine glasses 2 to 3 times daily.

Marsh Mallow Water

Soak one ounce of marsh mallow roots (Althaea officinalis) in a little cold water for half an hour; peel off the bark, or skin; cut up the roots into small shavings, and put them into a jug to stand for a couple of hours; the decoction must be drunk tepid, and may be sweetened with honey or sugar, and flavoured with orange-flower water, or with orange juice. Marshmallow water may be used with good effect in all cases of inveterate coughs and catarrhs.

A decoction made of Milk Thistle seed (Silybum marianum) is ideal for chronic and post- acute stages of hepatitis, rapidly bringing an improvement in appetite and well-being. It is also used in fatty degeneration and even cirrhosis of the liver. It even prevents poisoning from the deadly Amanita or death cap mushroom if administered quickly enough.

It contains polyphenolic compounds referred to collectively as silymarin.

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus). A decoction made of artichoke is used as a bitter digestive and is a major remedy for liver and gall bladder disorders. It is the leaf that contains these properties, Cynarin and other phenolic acids; sesquiterpene lactones; flavonoids; inulin, minerals, vitamins and enzymes.

Quiz:

1. A decoction is a ______liquid.

2. Compound decoction of aloes is employed like compound tincture of _____ and _____.

3. The ______was eulogized as the divine herb from the East.

4. Decoctum Taraxaci employed as a vehicle for the simple bitters.

5. Decoctions will keep, refrigerated, about ___ to ___ days.

6. The earliest written information about therapy by bathing with decoctions of aromatic herbs is contained in the Indian Vedas dating back to ______.

7. Decoctum Hordei is used for fevers or irritable states of the ______and ______tracts.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Ten - Herbal Liniment

Monkshood

Monkshood was used to poison enemy water supplies during times of war in ancient Europe and Asia. Hunters used its sap to poison spears, arrowheads and trap baits, as well. In Greek mythology Monkshood was said to drip from the three-headed dog that guarded the gates of the underworld.

The benefit derived from Liniments depends either upon their counter-irritating influences, or from absorption of their active constituents. Liniments are usually prescribed extemporaneously or for external use. The only difference between Liniments and tinctures is that Liniments are used externally while tinctures are used internally. Liniments may be made using oil, vinegar, water or alcohol as a quality solvent.

Making Liniments:

Folk Method:

Chop your herbs finely. Use fresh herbs whenever possible, though dried herbs can also be used. Fill a clean, dry jar to the top with the herbs. Pour the menstruum over the herbs. Fill the jar to the top, being sure the menstruum completely covers the entire herb. Seal with a tight fitting lid. If using vinegar as the menstruum, warm the vinegar first. It facilitates the release of the herb essence. Place the jar(s) in a warm, dark place and let macerate for 2 to 6 weeks. The longer it sits, the better. At the end of the appropriate time strain, using a large stainless steel strainer lined with cheesecloth or muslin. You can use the cloth to wring out every drop of herbal essence. Reserve the liquid and compost the herbs. Rebottle and label. During the macerating process, shake the bottle once a day.

Percolation Method:

Place the herbs in a bowl.

Moisten them with the menstruum and let sit overnight.

Place moistened plant material in the percolator which has been lined with a filter (a paper or cloth filter will work just fine). The degree to which you pack it in will determine the rate of percolation. If you pack it in loosely, the percolation will be much quicker and less potent. It is suggested that you pack it firmly so the percolation is slow and thorough.

Pour Menstruum over the herb. Use the same proportions as when making the Standardized method.

Collect the tincture into a receiving jar and bottle for use.

Herb: Menstruum:

There are three standard ratios in use today. The type of herb you are using determines them. These include:

1. Dry Herb - If you are using dry herbs in your liniment, use 1 part herb to 5 parts menstruum. The herbs are measured by weight in gram (g) and the menstruum is measured by volume in milliliters (ml).

2. Fresh Herb. If you are using fresh herbs in your liniment, use 1 part herb to 2 parts menstruum.

3. Resinous Herbs. If you are using resinous herbs like pine in your liniment, use 1 part herb to 4 parts menstruum. For each 1 g of resinous herb, use 4-ml menstruum.

The Menstruum: Water - Alcohol

This ratio can vary depending on the herbs you are using and the chemical substances you wish to extract. The most common standard ratio is 1:1 or 1 part water to 1 part alcohol.

First we determine how much menstruum you need from the table above.

Weigh out your herb in grams and multiply that number by the ratio determined by whether the herb is dry, fresh or resinous.

This will give you the number of ml of menstruum you need.

Example 1: If you have 4 grams of dry herb, using a 1:5 ratio; 4g x 5 = 20ml of menstruum

Example 2: If you have 10 grams of resinous herb, using a 1:4 ratio; 10g x 4 = 40ml of menstruum.

When you have determined the amount of menstruum needed, the next step is to decide what water: alcohol ratio is best for the particular herb/s. This is where the pharmacopoeias are not always in agreement and thus the Standardized Technique isn’t exactly standardized.

The following chart provides water: alcohol information:

Water/Alcohol % Water % Alcohol Proof

1:1 - 50% 50% 100

1:2 33% 67% 134

1:3 25% 75% 150

1:4 20% 80% 160

55:45 55% 45% 90

60:40 60% 40% 80

70:30 70% 30% 60

When you determine ratio, the water/alcohol ratio; look on the chart above. If you can buy alcohol in the proof you want all you have to do is measure the number of ml you need and that is your menstruum.

Example: The particular herb you are tincturing works best with a 40% alcohol menstruum. You have 12 g of dry herb from example 1 above. Look on the chart and see that 40% alcohol is the same as 80 proof. Go to a liquor store and buy 80 proof vodka, brandy or whatever. Measure out 60 ml (12g x 5) of it and your menstruum is completed.

These methods can also be applied when making tinctures.

Linimentum Stillingiae Compositum - Compound Liniment of Stillingia

Synonyms: Stillingia liniment, Compound tincture of stillingia.

Preparation.—Take of oil of stillingia, 1 fluid ounce; oil of lobelia, oil of cajeput, of each, 1/2 fluid ounce; alcohol and glycerin, of each, 2 fluid ounces.

Mix in the order named. This formula is that revised by Prof. W. E. Bloyer, and is far preferable to the formula given below. Prepared in this manner, the component parts of the liniment do not separate as readily as in the old preparation, the formula for which is as follows: Take of oil of stillingia, 1 fluid ounce; oil of cajeput, 1/2 fluid ounce; oil of lobelia, 2 fluid drachms; alcohol, 2 fluid ounces. Mix together.

Stillingia liniment is prone to precipitate, and often thickens to a magma or jelly. It should be well shaken before being used. If it has solidified, it should be replaced by a fresh supply.

Action and Medical Uses. — This forms a peculiar kind of liniment, possessing stimulant and relaxant properties. It is used in chronic asthma, croup, epilepsy, chorea, etc. In asthma and croup, the throat, chest, and neck are to be bathed with it 3 or 4 times a day. With Prof. Scudder it was regarded as of great value externally in croup, and given internally it forms a good remedy for irritative and chronic coughs. It may be given on sugar, discs, or in syrup. In chorea, epilepsy, and spasmodic diseases, the whole vertebral column is to be bathed with it. In rheumatism, sprains, and painful affections, the diseased parts are to be bathed with it. In asthma its action is very prompt and effectual, relieving and ultimately curing some very obstinate cases. In the majority of instances, when applied to the chest, neck, etc., the patient experiences a peculiar taste in the mouth, somewhat resembling that of the lobelia and stillingia combined. It is often used of less strength, as— Take of oil of stillingia, 1/2 fluid ounce; oil of cajeput, 1/2 fluid ounce; oil of lobelia, 1 fluid drachm; alcohol, 3 fluid ounces. Mix. It is an agent peculiar to Eclectic practice, and is very active and efficient (R. S. Newton). The dose of stillingia liniment is from 1 to 5 drops.

Linimentum Succini Compositum - Compound Liniment of Oil of Amber.

Preparation.—Take of oil of stillingia, rectified oil of amber, each, 1 fluid ounce; oil of lobelia, 3 fluid drachms; olive oil, 2 fluid ounces. Mix.

Action and Medical Uses.—I have found this preparation very efficient in chronic asthma, croup, pertussis, chorea, epilepsy, rheumatism, sciatica, and various other spasmodic and painful affections; in many instances being much superior to the compound liniment of stillingia. Its manner of application is the same as recommended for the preceding liniment. In very severe cases, it may be applied every hour, or half-hour, and continued until vomiting ensues. It acts as a stimulant, relaxant, and antispasmodic. In many of the above diseases it will effect a cure without the exhibition of any internal medicine, and is especially useful among children to whom it is difficult to administer remedies by mouth, or in cases where the stomach rejects all medicines. Care must be taken not to use too much of this liniment at any one application. Owing to the presence of stillingia in this preparation, the liniment is prone to precipitation

Linimentum Crotonis - Croton-Oil Liniment.

Related entry: Oleum Tiglii (U. S. P.)—Croton Oil - Liniments

Preparation.—"Take of croton oil, 1 fluid ounce; oil of turpentine, 7 fluid ounces. Mix together with agitation" (Dub.).

Action and Medical Uses. — This acts as a prompt rubefacient, and when used for some time, produces pustulation. From 10 to 30 minims may be placed upon a limited surface, and rubbed in; and when pustulation is required, this should be repeated two or more times every day.

Linimentum Terebinthinae (U. S. P.)—Turpentine Liniment.

Oleum Terebinthinae - Oil of Turpentine

Preparation.—"Resin cerate, six hundred and fifty grammes (650 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 6 ozs., 406 grs.]; oil of turpentine, three hundred and fifty grammes (350 Gm.) [12 ozs. av., 151 grs.]; to make one thousand grammes (1000 Gm.) [2 lbs. av., 3 ozs., 120 grs.]. Melt the resin cerates in a capsule, on a water-bath, then add the oil of turpentine, and mix them thoroughly"—(U. S. P).

This is Kentish liniment. In its preparation a low heat should be employed to melt the cerate, after which the oil may be added gradually with constant stirring.

Action and Medical Uses. — This was at one time highly praised as an application to burns and scalds. It should be applied as soon as possible after the accident, and be allowed to remain on for at least a day. It should be applied on lint, care being taken to keep it from contact with the sound tissues. After healthy granulations set in, it should be discontinued. It may be employed in erythematous and erysipelatous conditions, when superficial or arising from injury, and in frost-bites.

Linimentum Terebinthinae Compositum - Compound Liniment of Turpentine.

Synonym: White liniment

Preparation.—Take of rose-water, 2 1/2 fluid ounces; yolk of egg, 1; oil of turpentine, 3 fluid ounces; oil of lemon, 1/2 fluid drachm; pyroligneous acid (or in its absence acetic acid), 1 fluid ounce. To the yolk slowly add the rose-water, and rub together in a mortar, then add the turpentine and oil of lemon. Pour the mixture into a pint bottle, and agitate to mix thoroughly; then add the acid, and agitate quickly and briskly. It must be kept well corked.

Action and Medical Uses.—Used in asthma and inflammation of the lungs, rubbing it on the throat and chest with a sponge or cloth, from the epiglottic region to the epigastric; also useful whenever a counter-irritant is required.

Linimentum Calcis (U. S. P.)—Lime Liniment.

Synonym: Carron oil.

Preparation.—"Solution of lime, linseed oil, of each, 1 volume. Mix them by agitation"— (U. S. P.).

Or, take of olive oil, or linseed oil, and lime-water, equal parts. Mix and agitate them together (Ed.—Lond.).

The lime and oil unite and form a calcareous soap, the oleate of calcium, with some glycerin. It is called Carron oil. Turpentine may be sometimes advantageously added to it.

Action and Medical Uses.—This is a very useful and probably the best application to recent burns and scalds; it is best applied on carded cotton. It is recommended to prevent the pitting of variola. The following is also reputed beneficial in burns: Take of lime-water, 2 fluid ounces; oil of turpentine, olive oil, each, 1 fluid ounce. Mix. If it be used immediately after the accident, add oil of pennyroyal, 1 fluid ounce.

Linimentum Capsici Compositum - Compound Capsicum Liniment

Preparation.—Take of tincture of capsicum, 2 fluid ounces; tincture of opium and aqua ammoniae, each, 3 fluid drachms; oil of origanum, 2 fluid drachms; oil of cinnamon and tincture of camphor, each, 1 fluid drachm. Mix well.

Action and Medical Uses. — This is a very efficient application in rheumatic, pleuritic, neuralgic, and other pains.

Linimentum Aconiti - Aconite Liniment.

Synonym: Linimentum aconiti radicis.

Preparation.—Take of aconite root, in powder, 4 ounces; glycerin, 2 fluid drachms; alcohol, a sufficient quantity. Macerate the aconite with 1/2 pint of alcohol for 24 hours, then pack it in a small percolator, and add alcohol gradually until a pint of tincture has passed. Distill off 12 fluid ounces, and evaporate the residue until it measures 12 fluid drachms. To this add alcohol, 2 fluid drachms, and the glycerin, and mix them. This preparation was offered by W. Procter, Jr., as a substitute for aconitine as an external anaesthetic application. It is twice the strength of the root, and is exceedingly active. The glycerin is added for the purpose of retarding evaporation after application of the liniment to the skin, and which may be further secured by using oiled silk.

Aconite liniment, based on Procter's formula, was official in the U. S. P., 1870. A similar liniment may be prepared by mixing together 1/2 fluid ounce of glycerine with 4 fluid ounces of fluid extract of aconite root. Evaporate to 4 fluid ounces.

Action and Medical Uses. — This liniment may be used in all cases in which aconitine would prove useful, as in gout, neuralgia, and rheumatism. It is to be used as follows: Cut a piece of lint or muslin of the size and form of the part to be treated, lay it on a plate or waiter, and by means of a camel's hair brush, saturate it with the liniment. Thus prepared, it should be applied to the surface, a piece of oiled silk laid over and kept in place by an adhesive edge, or by a bandage. Care should be taken not to apply it to an abraded surface, and in its use the patient should be informed of its character, and avoid bringing it in contact with the eyes, nostrils, or lips.

Linimentum Belladonnae (U. S. P.)—Belladonna Liniment.

Preparation.—"Camphor, fifty grammes (50 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 334 grs.]; fluid extract of belladonna root, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the camphor in about two hundred cubic centimeters (200 Cc.) [6 fl, 366] of the fluid extract, and then add enough of the latter to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Mix thoroughly"—(U.S.P.).

Action and Medical Uses.—This preparation may be applied locally to rheumatic and neuralgic parts, sprains, and other painful conditions, particularly when there is also spasmodic muscular action.

Some additional Liniment Recipes and Suggestions:

Liniment for sprains, bruises, rheumatism and wounds:

Combine 4 tsp. powdered Myrrh; 2tsp. powdered Goldenseal, 2 tsp Echinacea root powder, 1 tsp. Cayenne pepper, in one quart of alcohol.

Mix together and let stand 7-10 days. Shake well every day. After 7-10 days strain and bottle.

You may choose to let the liniment "set" for 6-8 weeks, increasing the potency.

Liniment for soothing strained muscles and ligaments:

Combine one ounce of each of the following; golden seal powder, myrrh powder and Echinacea, plus 1/4 ounce cayenne powders. Place these dried herbs in a bottle and add one pint of rubbing alcohol. Shake this bottle daily for three to ten days. Strain and store in a bottle.

Herbal Liniment:

Use this massage oil to ease the pain of sore muscles and joints or to warm your muscles before heavy exercise.

1⁄4 cup chopped peppermint leaves 1⁄4 cup chopped rosemary leaves 2 tablespoons cayenne pods, chopped 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger 8 bay leaves, broken 2 cups oil

Place herbs in a double boiler, cover completely with oil and put a lid on the pan. Heat the mixture over low heat for 1 hour. Turn off heat and allow herbs to steep at least 2 hours longer. Strain out the herbs. Bottle the oil and store in a cool place.

Recipe for sprains, bruises, rheumatism and wounds:

Combine 4 tsp. powdered Myrrh; 2tsp. powdered Goldenseal, 2 tsp Echinacea root powder, 1 tsp. Cayenne pepper, in one quart of alcohol.

Mix together and let stand 7-10 days. Shake well every day. After 7-10 days strain and bottle.

You may choose to let the liniment set up for 6-8 weeks, thus increasing the potency.

Thyme (Thymus vulgaris )

Use the leaves and flowering tops to make a liniment for a calming influence on smooth muscle. Thymol is twenty times more antiseptic than phenol.

For loosening up stiff muscles.

2 teaspoons castor oil 1 tablespoon each of glycerin, aloe gel, cayenne tincture 30 drops essential oil of cinnamon

Combine all ingredients in a bottle and shake well. Apply as necessary

Frankincense (Boswellia carterii; Burseraceae)

Try making a liniment out of Frankincense for bruises and injuries, and for its antiseptic properties. Its constituents are boswellic acid A and B, olibanoresene Arabic acid, bassorin, pinene, dipentene A and B phellandrene.

Quiz:

1. Liniments are used ______.

2. To make a 1:1 - 50% menstrum, you would need what proof alcohol?

3. Compound Liniment of Stillingia is prone to ______.

4. Aconite Liniment is used in cases of gout, neuralgia, and ______.

5. When you have determined the amount of menstruum needed, the next step is to decide ______.

6. Thymol is ___ times more antiseptic than ______.

7. Turpentine Liniment at one time was highly praised as an application to ______and ______.

Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Eleven - Tinctures

Tinctures are more powerful and last longer than dried herbs. The majority of herbs have a solvency between 40 and 60 percent. The standard dosage for a tincture is 1 teaspoon, 1-3 times daily. This can be diluted in tea, juice or water. Tinctures can last up to two years when stored in a tightly closed container. Water is a good medium to extract gums, mucilage, saponins and tannins, but should not be used for oils and resins. Alcohol is ideal for extracting fats, resins, waxes and most alkaloids. It is an excellent preservative and is quickly assimilated. Because fresh herbs contain more water than their dried counterparts, they tend to require higher amounts of alcohol in the extraction process. For example, peppermint, spearmint and lemon balm are best extracted fresh with pure ethanol, whereas when dried, require only 75 percent alcohol. For Chamomile use 75 percent alcohol for a fresh tincture and 50 percent when tincturing the dried flower. The substance that is used to extract the herbs is known as the "menstrum". The herbs you are tincturing are known as the "mark". Tincturing will extract and preserve both the water-soluble and alcohol-soluble properties of an herb.

Basic Tincture Preparation:

To prepare an herbal tincture, you will need a supply of dried, powdered or fresh herbs; a clean wide-mouthed jar; cheesecloth or muslin; and a supply of vodka or rum. Never Prepare the selected herbs by chopping or grinding them. If you are creating a formula using several different herbs, it is best to tincture all of the herbs together. Put them in a sterile jar (such as a Mason jar) with a tight lid, and cover them with brandy or vodka. Alcohol must be at least 50 proofs to have good preservative qualities.

Shake daily. Strain after a month, first with a strainer and then through a cheesecloth, squeezing tightly. When ready to bottle, use sterile amber-colored glass bottles. Label and date the bottles and then store in a dark, cool area. Tinctures can be taken by putting 1 dropper full into a hot drink.

Other suggestions are:

Place the herbs inside the jar and pour enough vodka or rum to cover them completely. Continue to pour the alcohol until you've reached the halfway point of the jar. Place a lid on the jar and store it in a dark, cool place for up to two weeks. Shake the jar at least once a day. The alcohol or glycerin will draw out the essence of the herbs. After two weeks, carefully strain the tincture through a cheesecloth or muslin into another clean jar and store it in a medicine cabinet. Most tincture recipes call for one tablespoon to be consumed at mealtime at least once a day.

Tinctures may also be made using vegetable glycerin rather than alcohol. This is suggested when making tinctures for those that are alcohol intolerant as well as for children, pregnant and nursing mothers. Glycerin is both a solvent and preservative that has an effectiveness midway between water and alcohol. It is naturally sweet, pleasant tasting and helps to extract mucilage, vitamins, minerals and tannins from the plant material. It is good for herbs high in tannins but doesn't extract resins well. It is slightly antiseptic and demulcent when diluted. Glycerites are usually prepared using a ratio of 1 part water to 2 parts glycerin. Glycerites have a shelf life of about 1 to 3 years.

Some Suggested Herbs for Tinctures:

Hawthorn is an excellent choice to promote healthy heart and circulation. Hawthorn helps to improve the blood vessels and strengthen the contraction of heart muscles. The berries are the most often used part of this shrub. Hawthorn is the best known of the cardiac tonics, and possibly the most valuable tonic remedy for the cardiovascular system found in the plant kingdom.

Rose and Calendula are traditionally used to support healthy circulation and stimulate natural resistance to cold and flu. With Calendula, either the whole flower tops or just the petals are collected between June and September. They should be dried with great care to ensure there is no discoloration.

Mullein is traditionally used to help improve lung functions, relieve dry cough and soothe the irritation of the bronchial passages. The leaves are collected in mid-summer before they turn brown, dry in the shade. The flowers are gathered between July & September during dry weather, & dried in shade or with heat no higher than, 40 deg C. The flowers turn brown with moisture and will become ineffective.

Lungwort and Licorice have both, expectorant and anti-inflammatory actions and supports soothing effects. The leaves of the Lungwort should be gathered during and after flowering, between March and September. The roots of the Licorice herb are unearthed in the late autumn. Clean thoroughly and dry.

Thyme helps combat infections of the upper respiratory tract. The flowering branches should be collected between June and August on a dry sunny day. The leaves are stripped off the dried branches.

Black Cohosh can be more effective than estrogen in relieving symptoms. As a relaxing nervine it may be used in many situations where such an agent is needed. The roots are unearthed with the rhizome in autumn after the fruits have ripened. They should be cut lengthwise and dried carefully.

Valerian root helps reduce excessive anxiety, restlessness and facilitates natural sleep. The rhizome, stolons and roots are used. To be effective it has to be used in sufficiently high dosage.

Passion flower promotes anxiolytic and stress- relieving action. The leaves and whole plant are used.

Blessed Thistle helps nursing mothers by stimulating the mammary glands and helps to increase breast milk supply. It is also used as a digestive tonic. The flowering tops are used.

Lemon Balm and Marjoram both achieve similar effects and are combined to produce potent tincture with anti-anxiety and sedative actions. To harvest Lemon Balm, cut the whole stems within a few inches of the base of the plant, gather into groups of 5-6 stems, tie and hang in a warm, airy location. When dry, strip off the leaves, store in a covered container and use as needed. The dried leaves of the Marjoram are used.

Bugleweed acts as a natural diuretic and is used specifically for over-active thyroid glands. Bugleweed has also been used to treat coughs and heart conditions where there is associated build-up of water in the body. The whole plant is used.

Do not use bugleweeds if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or if you have an underactive thyroid condition.

Chamomile is a gentle, soothing herb. It is excellent for irritability associated with teething, colic, or minor illness. The flowering tops are used.

Burdock Root is a blood purifier. It has been used to aid kidney function and to heal cystitis. It has also been used in anorexia nervosa and similar conditions. The roots and rhizome should be unearthed in September or October.

Cherry Bark is good for coughs and phlegm and is anti asthmatic. It relaxes the lungs and dilates the bronchioles. As an expectorant, it helps clear mucous from the lungs. The bark is gathered from young plants in the autumn, when it is most active. The outer bark is stripped off and the inner bark is carefully dried in the shade. It must be stored in an air tight container and protected from light.

Angelica Root is generally used as a stimulating herbal expectorant. It is used for coughs, bronchitis and pleurisy, especially when they are accompanied by fever, colds or influenza. The roots and leaves are used.

Barberry is used for treating gallbladder disease, heartburn and indigestion and diarrhea. Barberry is one of the best remedies for correcting liver function and promoting the flow of bile. The bark of the root or stem is used.

Bayberry is used to improve circulation, promote perspiration, boost your immune system naturally, and ward off infections. It has been used in the treatment of colds, the `flu and other acute feverish conditions. The bark of the root is used.

Quiz:

1. Fresh herbs contain more ______than their dried counterparts.

2. Alcohol or glycerin will draw out the ______of the herbs.

3. Bugleweed acts as a natural ______.

4. The substance that is used to extract the herbs is known as the ______.

5. Alcohol must be at least ___ proof to have good preservative qualities.

6. Tinctures may also be made using ______glycerin rather than alcohol.

7. Glycerites have a shelf life of about __ to __ years.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Twelve - Elixirs

Paracelsus (b. 1493 d. 1541) who is generally accredited with instituting a new era in the study of elixirs demonstrated that alchemy, which flourished in his day, and of which he was a zealous student, could be made of value to the physician. He originated the famous concoction "Elixir Proprietatis," made of saffron, aloes, and myrrh, claiming that whoever used it would "live as long as Methuselah;" then he died in his 47th year. At present, an elixir is considered to be an alcoholic liquid free from sugar.

National Formulary Elixirs

Elixir Ammonii Bromidi (N. F.), Elixir of ammonium bromide.—Formulary number, 32: "Ammonium bromide, eighty-five grammes (85 Gm.) [3 oz. av.]; citric acid, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the ammonium bromide and the citric acid in about five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435] of aromatic elixir by agitation. Then add enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391], and filter if necessary. Each fluid drachm contains 5 grains of ammonium bromide"—(Nat. Form).

Elixir Ammonii Valerianatis (N. F.), Elixir of ammonium valerianate.—Formulary number, 33: "Ammonium valerianate, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 103 grs.]; chloroform, eight-tenths of a cubic centimeter (0.8 Cc.) [13]; tincture of vanilla (U. S. P.), sixteen cubic centimeters (16 Cc.) [260]; compound tincture of cudbear (F. 419), sixteen cubic centimeters (16 Cc.) [260]; water of ammonia (U. S. P.), aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), of each, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the ammonium valerianate in about seventy-five cubic centimeters (75 Cc.) [2 fl, 257] of aromatic elixir, in a graduated vessel, and add enough water of ammonia, in drops, until a faint excess of it is perceptible in the liquid. Then add the chloroform, tincture of vanilla and compound tincture of cudbear and finally, enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Filter, if necessary. Each fluid drachm contains 2 grains of ammonium valerianate. Note.— Should the odor of valerianic acid become perceptible after the elixir has been kept for some time, it may be overcome by slightly supersaturating with water of ammonia"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Apii Graveolentis Compositum (N. F.), Compound elixir of celery.—Formulary number, 36: "Fluid extract of celery seed (F. 139), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; fluid extract of erythroxylon (U. S. P.), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; fluid extract of kola (F. 175), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; fluid extract of viburnum prunifolium (U. S. P.), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; alcohol, one hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters (125 Cc.) [4 fl, 109]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity, to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Mix the alcohol with two hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (250 Cc.) [8 fl, 218] of aromatic elixir. To this add the fluid extract of celery seed in several portions, shaking after each addition, and afterwards the other fluid extracts. Finally add enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391], allow the mixture to stand 24 hours, and filter. Note.—If this preparation is prescribed or quoted under its Latin title, it is recommended that the full title be given, so that the word 'Apii' may not be mistaken for 'Opii'"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Bismuthi (N. F.), Elixir of bismuth.—Formulary number, 37: "Bismuth and ammonium citrate, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 103 grs.]; water, hot, sixty cubic centimeters (60 Cc.) [9 fl, 14]; water of ammonia (U. S. P.), and aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), of each a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the bismuth and ammonium citrate in the hot water, allow the solution to stand until any un-dissolved matter has subsided; then decant the clear liquid, and add to the residue just enough water of ammonia to dissolve it. Then mix it with the decanted portion and add enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Filter, if necessary. Each fluid drachm represents 2 grains of bismuth and ammonium citrate"—(Nat. Form).

Elixir Buchu (N. F.), Elixir of buchu.—Formulary number, 38: "Fluid extract of buchu (U. S. P.), one hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters (125 Cc.) [4 fl, 109]; alcohol, sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) 12 fl, 46]; syrup (U. S. P.), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; magnesium carbonate, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [231 grs.]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Mix the fluid extract of buchu with the alcohol, then add seven hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (750 Cc.) [25 fl, 173], of aromatic elixir and the syrup. Incorporate with it the magnesium carbonate, and filter. Finally, pass enough aromatic elixir through the filter to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Each fluid drachm represents about 71 grains of buchu"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Buchu Compositum (N. F.), Compound elixir of buchu.—Formulary number, 39: "Compound fluid extract of buchu (F. 144), two hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (250 Cc.) [8 fl, 218]; alcohol, sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; syrup (U. S. P.), sixty-two cubic centimeters (62 Cc.) [2 fl, 46]; magnesium carbonate, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [231 grs.]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc. [33 fl, 391]. Mix the compound fluid extract of buchu with the alcohol then adds five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435] of aromatic elixir and the syrup. Incorporate with it the magnesium carbonate, and filter. Finally, pass enough aromatic elixir through the filter to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Each fluid drachm represents 15 minims of compound fluid extract of buchu"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Buchu Et Potassii Acetatis (N. F.), Elixir of buchu and potassium acetate.— Formulary number, 40: "Potassium acetate, eighty-five grammes (85 Gm.) ozs. av.]; elixir of buchu (F. 38), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the potassium acetate in about seven hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (750 Cc.) [25 fl, 173] of elixir of buchu; filter, if necessary, and add enough elixir of buchu to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Each fluid drachm represents 5 grains of potassium acetate and about 7 grains of buchu"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Caffeinae (N. F.), Elixir of caffeine.—Formulary number, 41: "Caffeine, seventeen and one-half grammes (17.5 Gm.) [270 grs.]; diluted hydrobromic acid E 8. P.), four cubic centimeters (4 Cc.) [65]; syrup of coffee (F. 367), two hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (250 Cc.) [8 fl, 218]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Rub the caffeine, in a mortar, with the diluted hydrobromic acid, and about one hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters (125 Cc.) [4 fl, 109] of aromatic elixir, until solution is affected. Then add the syrup of coffee, and lastly, enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Filter, if necessary. Each fluid drachm contains 1 grain of caffeine"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Calcii Hypophosphitis (N. F.), Elixir of calcium hypophosphite.—Formulary number, 43: "Calcium hypophosphite, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 103 grs.]; citric acid, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Dissolve the calcium hypophosphite in nine hundred cubic centimeters (900 Cc.) [30 fl, 308] of aromatic elixir, and filter. Dissolve the citric acid in the filtrate, and pass enough aromatic elixir through the filter to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Each fluid drachm contains 2 grains of calcium hypophosphite"—(Nat. Form.).

Elixir Calcii Lactophosphatis (N. F.), Elixir of calcium lactophosphate.—Formulary number, 44: "Calcium lactate, seventeen and one-half grammes (17.5 Gm.) [270 grs.]; phosphoric acid (U. S. P., 85 per cent), eight cubic centimeters (8 Cc.) [130]; water, sixty cubic centimeters (60 Cc.) [2 fl, 14]; syrup (U. S. P.), sixty cubic centimeters (60 Cc.) [2 fl, 14]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the calcium lactate with the phosphoric acid, the water, and the syrup, until the salt is dissolved. Then add enough aromatic elixir to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391], and filter. Each fluid drachm represents 1 grain of calcium lactate, or about 1 1/2 grains of so-called calcium lactophosphate"—(Nat. Form.).

A Word on Elixirs

There are many associations connected to the word "elixir", especially within alchemy.

For instance it is believed that the Chinese were the first ones to engage in the art of alchemy.

The first Chinese alchemist who is reasonably well known was Ko Hung ( 283 CE - 343 CE), whose book "Pao-p'u-tzu" contains two chapters with obscure recipes for elixirs, mostly based on mercury or arsenic compounds.

The most famous Chinese alchemical book is the Tan chin yao ch¸eh ("Great Secrets of Alchemy"), probably by Sun Ssu-miao (581 CE - 673 CE). It is a practical treatise on creating elixirs (mercury, sulfur, and the salts of mercury and arsenic are prominent) for the attainment of immortality, plus a few for specific cures for disease and such other uses, such as the fabrication of precious stones. The Chinese were said to have developed an elixir called "Dancing Water or Golden Elixir" which granted the drinker of such an elixir with immortality.

As far as alchemy goes, the theory is, that 'base' metals can be transmuted into gold or silver. The generally accepted belief was that elixirs could be prepared which, by an action described as catalytic, would convert unlimited amounts of lead, mercury, tin, copper, and iron into silver first and then into gold. The philosophical justification for this almost universal credence in the possibility of transmutation can be found in the Aristotelian conception of the Four Elements and as well as in Jabir's theory that all metals are composed of sulphur and mercury. Elixirs may also be made by using Crystals as the energizing factor. (Please research each crystal as some crystals are not recommended for use as an elixir.

The way to do this is to take a specific crystal and to mentally formulate the specific energy desired of the crystal. This can be determined through research of the crystal under consideration. The chosen crystal is then placed in a non-metallic glass or container for 24 hours. The crystal is then removed and the elixir is drunk for the desired effects.

For instance a Moonstone elixir may be used to cleanse the chakras and to release negative energy. A Danburite elixir may be used to remove toxins from the body. An elixir made of Opal can be used to rid one of infectious disease. Petalite can be used to make an elixir for tuning the Throat chakra and to assist in the battle against AIDS. You may make an elixir of Fluorite to abolish certain tumors. An elixir of amethyst may be used to abolish sleep disorders.

The list goes on, just be sure to do your research as some crystals can be poisonous if used in an elixir.

For instance; do not utilize Lead to make an elixir. Also use only one crystal per elixir, do not mix them.

Quiz:

1. How many grams of Bismuth and ammonium citrate is added to Elixir of bismuth?`

2. A new era in the study of elixirs is accredited to ______.

3. The ______were thought to be the first ones to engage in the art of alchemy.

4. Elixirs may also be made by using ______.

5. Each fluid drachm of Elixir Calcii Hypophosphitis contains 2 grains of ______.

6. In Jabir's theory; all metals are composed of ______and ______.

7. Each fluid drachm of Elixir Ammonii Valerianatis contains 2 grains of ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Thirteen - Emulsions

India, which is located between China and the West, underwent a similar process in the development of its medicine. The healing that took place before India's Ayurveda medical corpus was similar to that of ancient Egypt or China (sickness was viewed as a punishment from the gods for a particular sin). Ayurveda medicine emerged, during the rise of the philosophies of, the Upanishads, Buddhism, and other schools of thought in India. Herbs played an important role in Ayurveda medicine. The principal Ayurveda book on internal medicine, the Characka Samhita, describes 582 herbs. The main book on surgery, the Sushruta Samhita, lists some 600 herbal remedies. Most experts agree that these books are at least 2,000 years old.

An emulsion is a mixture of two immiscible (seperate) substances. One substance (the dispersed phase) is dispersed in the other (the continuous phase). For instance, Water in oil and Oil in water.

There are three types of emulsion instability: flocculation, where the particles form clumps, Creaming, where the particles concentrate towards the surface of the mixture while staying separated, or Breaking, where the particles coalesce and form a layer of liquid.

Fat emulsions may contain egg yolks, soybean oil, and safflower oil.

Emulsum Amygdalae (U. S. P.)—Emulsion of Almond.

Preparation.—"Sweet almond, sixty grammes (60 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 51 grs.]; acacia, in fine powder, ten grammes (10 Gm.) [15 grs.]; sugar, thirty grammes (30 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 25 grs]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Having blanched the almonds, adds the acacia and sugar, and beat them in a mortar until they are thoroughly mixed. Then rub the mass with nine hundred cubic centimeters (900 Cc.) [30 fl, 208] of water at first very gradually added, until a uniform mixture results. Strain this into a graduated vessel, and wash the mortar and strainer with enough water to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Mix the whole thoroughly"—(U. S. P.).

Acacia is present in this formula ostensibly for its mechanical action, but it is not completely unnecessary, as it enables no more oil to be suspended, nor does it add to the keeping properties of the emulsion. Care should be exercised to select almonds that have not become rancid. Emulsion of almond is not permanent, the oleaginous portion separating to form a creamy upper stratum. In warm weather it readily sours. Alcohol and heat cause the separation of the ingredients, while acids coagulate the albuminous matter present, thus favoring separation. Emulsion of almond has the appearance of milk, and possesses a bland taste.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage. — This agent is demulcent and nutritive. It may be freely used in catarrhal disorders, irritated urinary passages, and dysentery. It forms an agreeable vehicle for medicines not acid in character. The dose is 2 to 8 fluid ounces.

Emulsio Olei Ricini (N. F.)—Emulsion of Castor Oil.

Preparation.—Formulary number, 131: "Castor oil, thirty-two grammes (32 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 56 grs.]; acacia, in fine powder, eight grammes (8 Gm.) [123 grs.]; tincture of vanilla (U. S. P.), two and one-half cubic centimeters (2.5 Cc.) [41]; syrup (U. S. P.), twenty cubic centimeters (20 Cc.) [325]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]. Carefully weigh the castor oil and the acacia into a mortar, triturate until well mixed; carefully weigh out twelve grammes (12 Gm.) [185 grs] of water, and add at once to the mixture of oil and acacia, triturating briskly until a thick, creamy emulsion is produced. To this add gradually, with stirring, a mixture, of the syrup and tincture with a portion of the remaining water, and finally enough water to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]. The emulsion contains about one-third (1/3) of its volume of castor oil. The flavoring may be varied to suit prescription. It should be freshly prepared as required"

Emulsio Olei Morrhuae (N. F.)—Emulsion of Cod-Liver Oil.

Preparation.—Formulary number, 124: "Cod-liver oil, four hundred and sixty-four grammes (464 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 160 grs.]; acacia in fine powder, one hundred and sixteen grammes (116 Gm.) [4 oz. av., 40 grs.]; syrup of tolu (U. S. P), one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183 ]; flavoring (F. 123, B), water, of each a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the oil and acacia together in a mortar. Carefully weigh out one hundred and seventy-four grammes (174 Gm.) [6 ozs. av., 60 grs.] of water, and add it at once to the mixture of oil and acacia, triturating briskly until a thick, creamy emulsion is produced. To this add the desired flavoring, the syrup of tolu, and enough water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391] of the finished emulsion"

Alternative Formulas

Irish Moss Emulsion od Cod Liver Oil. "Cod-liver oil, five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435]; mucilage of Irish moss (F. 275), three hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters (325 Cc.) [10 fl, 475]; syrup of tolu (U. S. P.), one hundred cubic Centimeters (100 Cc.) — [3 fl, 183]; flavoring (F. 123, B.), water, of each, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Pour the mucilage of Irish moss into a suitable bottle add the cod-liver oil in divided portions, shaking well after each addition, and when a perfect emulsion is formed, add the syrup of tolu and flavoring, and lastly, enough water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Finally, mix the whole thoroughly together"

Glyconin Emulsion of Cod Liver Oil. "Cod-liver oil, five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435]; glycerite of yolk of egg (U. S. P.), one hundred and seventy-five cubic centimeters (175 Cc.) [5 fl, 440]; syrup of tolu (U. S. P.), one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]; flavoring (F. 123, B.), water, of each, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Triturate the glycerite of yolk of egg (glyconin) in a mortar with the oil, added in small portions at a time, and thoroughly incorporate each portion before adding the next. Then, continuing the trituration, gradually add the syrup of tolu, and flavoring. Finally, add enough water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391], and mix the whole thoroughly together"

Ouillaja Emulsion of Cod Liver. "Cod-liver oil, five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435]; tincture of quillaja (U. S. P.), sixty-five cubic centimeters (65 Cc.) [2 fl, 394]; syrup tolu (U. S. P.), one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]; flavoring (F. 123, B.), water, of each, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Pour the tincture into a suitable bottle, and then add the cod-liver oil in portions of about one hundred and twenty-five cubic centimeters (125 Cc.) [4 fl, 109] each, and shake after each addition until a perfect emulsion results. Next add the syrup of tolu, and the flavoring, and lastly, enough water to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Finally mix the whole thoroughly together. An 85 per cent emulsion of cod-liver oil may be prepared by mixing in the manner just prescribed: Cod-liver oil, eight hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (850 Cc.) [28 fl, 356]; tincture of quillaja (U. S. P.), one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]; flavoring (F. 123, B.), syrup of tolu (U. S. P.), of each, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters (1000 Cc.) [33 fl, 391]. Note. — Emulsion of cod-liver oil made with quillaja should not be dispensed without the direction or consent of the prescriber"

Emulsio Olei Terebinthinae (N. F.)—Emulsion of Oil of Turpentine

Preparation.—Formulary number, 132: "Oil of turpentine, twelve and one-half cubic centimeters (12.5 Cc.) [203]; acacia, in fine powder, two grammes (2 Gm.) [31 grs.]; yolk of egg, fifteen cubic centimeters (15 Cc.) [243]; aromatic elixir (U. S. P.), fifteen cubic centimeters (15 Cc.) [243], cinnamon water (U. S. P.), a sufficient quantity to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]. Triturate the acacia with the yolk of egg then add the oil of turpentine very slowly, continuing the trituration, and finally add the aromatic elixir, and enough cinnamon water to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183], in the same manner"—(Nat. Form.).

Emulsion of oil of turpentine, or any volatile oil, may also be prepared according to the following general formula: "Volatile oil, twelve and one-half cubic centimeters (12.5 Cc.) [203]; acacia, in fine powder, six grammes (6 Gm.) [93 grs.]; syrup, twenty-five cubic centimeters (25 Cc.) [406]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183]. Pour the volatile oil into a dry bottle, and, having corked the latter, agitate it so that the inner surface maybe completely wetted by the oil. Then add the acacia, and shake again. Finally add the syrup, and enough water to make one hundred cubic centimeters (100 Cc.) [3 fl, 183], and mix thoroughly. Note. — If this general formula is applied to emulsion of oil of turpentine, and a product similar to that obtained by the first formula is desired, the syrup should be replaced by aromatic elixir, and the water by cinnamon water. If a so-called "emulsion" of a volatile oil is to be made more permanent, this may be accomplished by incorporating with it a small portion of some bland fixed oil, such as expressed oil of almond. Usually, 1 volume of the fixed oil will be sufficient for 2 volumes of the volatile oil. In this case the mixture should be made in a mortar, by trituration, and under observation of the rule laid down in general formula for emulsions

Quiz:

1. Emulsion of Castor Oil should be freshly prepared as ______.

2. Formulary number, 132 is what?

3. Many Emulsions use the syrup of ______.

4. The Characka Samhita, describes ____ herbs.

5. Emulsion of oil of turpentine is______oil.

6. An emulsion is a mixture of two ______substances.

7. Acacia is present in "what" formula ostensibly for its mechanical action?

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Fourteen - Glycerites

Hyssop

The name Aloe Vera was derived from Arabic meaning "bitter" because of the bitter liquid found in the leaves. In 1500 B.C.E. the Egyptians recorded use of the herbal plant in treating burns, infections and parasites. Egyptian Queens Cleopatra and Nefertiti both gave tribute to Aloe Vera as one of their most important beauty secrets. Alexander the Great carried the Aloe Vera plant into battle to treat wounded soldiers. The plant dates back 6,000 years. African hunters still rub the gel on their bodies to reduce perspiration and their scent.

Glycerites are extracts made with pure vegetable glycerin, and are suitable for children and may also be suitable for persons with certain types of alcohol sensitivities. Glycerites are basically non-alcohol based tinctures. Glycerin is both a solvent and a preservative. Glycerin is the sweet principle of oils, obtained by the hydrolysis of vegetable or animal fats. Glycerin is used as a menstruum when alcohol is not desired. Its solvent strength is somewhere between alcohol and water. It is especially useful as a menstruum for tannin-containing herbs. Glycerin will dissolve minerals, vitamins and mucilage but will not dissolve or mix with oils or resins. It is slightly antiseptic and anti-fermentive. Undiluted, it is an irritant and stimulant. Diluted, it is demulcent, soothing and healing. Because it absorbs water from the air, it is moisturizing. Glycerin is sweet-tasting, making it a good menstruum for children's formulas. It does not evaporate at normal temperatures and produces a warm sensation to the skin and tongue. Glycerin can be used undiluted, in a small quantity, as a rectal injection or suppository to immediately relieve constipation. When mixed half and half with rosewater, it provides a good skin emollient. Glycerin is soothing to the skin, and moisturizes without feeling greasy.

There are several methods for making Glycerites; Following are some examples of this process:

1. Mix 75% glycerin with 25% distilled water. 2. Fill a jar with fresh herb packed to medium density or fill 1/5 full with dried herb. 3. Pour the glycerin over the herb. Fill to top of jar, covering herbs. 4. Macerate 2-6 weeks, shaking often. Strain and bottle and store in a dark place. Shelf life is 1-3 years, depending upon water content of fresh plant used.

Note: Some fresh plants contain so much water already, that the addition of water has to be reduced or is not necessary at all. Adjust accordingly. You can also add more glycerin to the finished product, although that dilutes the strength. Shelf life depends on the concentration. The higher the glycerin contents, the longer the shelf life.

Making Glycerites from dried plant material:

8 oz powdered herb 2 quarts distilled water ¼ oz potassium sulphate 8 oz glycerin

Dissolve the potassium sulphate in water, add the herb, and simmer until liquid is reduced to 1 quart. Strain, and again add enough water to jut cover the herb. Simmer this for 10 minutes. Stain, combine the two liquids, and add glycerin, blending thoroughly. Cool the mixture, bottle in amber-colored bottles, and store in a cool place.

Another method:

200 gm powdered herb 480 ml glycerin 320 ml distilled water

Mix glycerin and water, add to powdered herb, stir well, cap container tightly and shake frequently for 14 days. Strain, press out and store in amber-colored bottle in a cool place.

Glyceritum Acidi Tannici (U. S. P.)—Glycerite of Tannic Acid.

Preparation.—"Tannic acid, twenty grammes (20 Gm.) [309 grs.]; glycerin, eighty grammes (80 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 360 grs.]; to make one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.]. Weigh the tannic acid and glycerin, successively, into a tared porcelain capsule, avoiding contact with metallic utensils, and apply the heat of a water-bath, until the acid is completely dissolved. Then transfer the solution to a bottle"—(U. S. P.).

Action and Medical Uses. — This forms a useful local application in bleeding from cuts, leech bites, epistaxis, sore nipples, anal fissure, chronic coryza, spongy gums, vaginal leucorrhoea, and chronic mucous inflammations, in which the mucous membrane is relaxed. It will be found an excellent local application in gleet, the nasal discharges following the exanthematous affections, otorrhoea in children, granular ophthalmia, ozoena, etc. It is contraindicated in active inflammations, which should be allayed previous to its use (see Acidum Tannicum). Chronic diseases of the skin, as eczema, impetigo, tinea, lichen, etc., have also been greatly benefited by its application.

Glyceritum Vitelli - Glycerite of Yolk of Egg.

Preparation.—"Fresh yolk of egg, forty-five grammes (45 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 2,57 grs.]; glycerin, fifty-five grammes (55 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 411 grs.]; to make one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.]. Rub the yolk of egg, in a mortar, with the glycerin, gradually added, until they are thoroughly mixed. Then transfer the mixture to a bottle"— (U. S. P.).

This preparation is of a honey-like consistence and is of value as an emulsifying agent for cod-liver and other oils. If kept from contact with the air, so that it cannot absorb moisture, it keeps unaltered for a great length of time.

Action and Medical Uses. — It is protective and emollient. Useful in burns, erysipelas, erythema, and other cutaneous irritations for which Glycerites of starch is employed. It is inferior to that agent for most purposes.

Glyceritum Amyli (U. S. P.) - Glycerite of Starch.

Preparation.—"Starch, ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs.]; water, ten cubic centimeters (10 Cc.) [162]; glycerin, eighty grammes (80 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 360 grams]. To the starch, contained in a porcelain capsule, add the water and glycerin, and stir until a homogeneous mixture is produced. Then apply a heat gradually raised to 140° C. (284° F.), and not exceeding 144° C. (291.2° F.), stirring constantly, until a translucent jelly is formed. Transfer the product to suitable vessels, provided with well-fitting covers "—(U. S. P.).

This preparation, if exposed to the atmosphere, readily absorbs moisture, hence it should be kept in closely-stopper bottles. According to Willmott the substitution of water in place of one-third of the glycerin used will prevent this change.

Action and Medical Uses — Glycerite of starch forms a bland preparation, very useful in cases in which it is desired to apply mild, non-irritating dressings, as in the burning heat of eczema, in excoriated surfaces, in erythema, and in several other irritated or inflamed conditions of the skin. It likewise forms a vehicle for the application of other agents with which it may be mixed.

Glyceritum Acidi Salicylici. - Glycerite of Salicylic Acid.

Preparation — Take of salicylic acid (made from wintergreen oil), borax (in fine powder), each, 60 grains; glycerin, 2 fluid ounces. Triturate the acid with the borax, in a mortar, until thoroughly mixed; then add the glycerin, and rub until a clear solution is obtained.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.— (See Acidum Salicylicum.) This preparation will be found very useful in all maladies in which salicylic acid is indicated. It may be used internally as well as externally, and constitutes a useful local application in several diseases of the mouth and pharynx, in gangrenous ulcers, leucorrhoea, offensive discharges, pediculi, pruritis, etc. The dose internally is from 1/2 to 2 fluid drachms.

Glyceritum Picis. - Glycerite of Tar.

Preparation.—Take of tar, 1 troy ounce; glycerite of starch, 8 troy ounces. Transfer the tar to a mortar, and gradually add the glycerite of starch, stirring constantly until an even mixture results (New Remedies, 1879, p. 200). It is advisable to previously warm the glycerite of starch.

Action and Medical Uses — This preparation forms a very useful local application in lichen, prurigo, pityriasis, psoriasis, lepra, herpes, erythema, eczema, tinea, pruritis, and alopecia; also in indolent and gangrenous ulcers. It may be rubbed upon the affected part, or be spread on a piece of linen and thus applied. It is very apt to afford more or less relief, even when it does not remove the disease. Do not confound this valuable tar compound for external use with the following liquid to be taken internally:

Related Preparation - Glyceritum Picis Liquidae - A good formula, with its uses, is as follows: Take of tar, strained, 1 troy ounce; carbonate of magnesium, rubbed to powder on a sieve, 3 troy ounces; alcohol, 2 fluid ounces; glycerin, 4 fluid ounces; water, a sufficient quantity. Mix the alcohol and glycerin with 10 fluid ounces of water. Rub the tar in a mortar with the carbonate of magnesium added gradually, until a smooth pulverulent mixture is obtained; then, add gradually, in small portions at a time, with thorough trituration continued for 15 or 20 minutes, 6 fluid ounces of the mixture of alcohol, glycerin, and water, and strain with strong pressure; return the residue to the mortar, and repeat the trituration as before, with 5 fluid ounces more of the same liquid, and again strain and express; again treat the dregs in the same manner with the remainder of the fluid mixture, and after expression, reduce the residue by trituration to a uniform condition, and finally pack firmly in a glass funnel, prepared for percolation, and pour upon it the expressed liquors, previously mixed, and when the mixture has all passed from the surface, continue the percolation with water until 1 pint of liquid has been obtained.

This is an elegant and palatable preparation of tar, of a beautiful rich reddish-brown color at first, but losing its transparency from a deposition of resinous matter, which does not, however, affect the medicinal virtues of the preparation in the least. If glycerin be substituted for the alcohol, in its preparation, the solution is nearly as strong as when alcohol is employed and deposits less resin. Glycerin appears to be a good solvent of the medicinal properties of tar, and possessing demulcent, alterative, and nutrient properties, serves as a valuable adjunct to the latter therapeutically.

Glycerin solution of tar is very valuable in chronic cough, chronic laryngeal, bronchial and pulmonary affections, and, being free from sugar, it is less liable to offend the stomach and disturb the digestive functions of patients requiring its long-continued use. It may be associated with the fluid extracts of wild cherry bark, blood-root, etc., to suit the views of the prescribing physician. The dose is from 2 to 4 fluid drachms, 3 or 4 times a day, which will represent from about 7 1/2 to 15 grains of tar.

Some suggested herbs for making herbal Glycerites:

Catnip and Fennel Glycerite: Catnip, fennel seed, glycerin, purified water, alcohol, ascorbic acid (as a natural anti-oxidant).

Catnip herb and fennel seed are well-known natural remedies, historically used to combat flatulence, colic, intestinal gas and bloating, and their associated griping pains.

Chamomile Glycerite: Chamomile flowers, glycerin, purified water, ascorbic acid (as a natural anti-oxidant)..

Chamomile flowers contain the essential oil, azulene, which is highly anti-inflammatory, and soothing. These flowers are also mildly sedative and carminative, promoting restful sleep and relaxation of digestive functions.

Milk Thistle Seed Glycerite: Milk thistle seed, Milk thistle seed standardized extract, glycerin, purified water, ascorbic acid (as a preservative).

Milk thistle seed is a beneficial herb, which has been clinically proven, to promote liver health and function. Its use in hepatitis (all types) promotes regeneration of functional cells within the liver. Although not a "cure" for hepatitis, it may, in many cases, prevent further viral damage, and stimulate better liver function.

Echinacea Glycerite: Echinacea a. root and flower, Echinacea p. root, glycerin, purified water, alcohol, ascorbic acid (as a natural anti-oxidant)..

Echinacea roots and flowers contain several constituents which stimulate immune system functions, including "scouring" by parts of the innate immune system particles, known as macrophages. These macrophages search the body for invading pathogens, stimulating the immune system can, in many cases trigger the rapid formation of antibodies designed to kill the invader. Additionally, Echinacea has been shown to limit tissue damage through its unique hyaluronidase inhbition, which limits the ability of bacteria to break down the "gel" which holds cells together in cohesive body tissues. Most forms of Echinacea will help in resolution of boils or abscesses in skin tissues by using them either as an herb poultice or a clay paste made with the extract or very strong decoction of the root (tea). Clay poultices are used when strong drawing characteristics are desired.

Basically any herb that can be made into a tincture can be made into a Glycerite. Essential oils can be added to a glycerite to enhance the flavor and aroma. Tangerine, orange, lemon, and mint oils are especially popular.

Glycerin and Gelatin Base

1 ounce powdered gelatin or Agar 1 fluid ounce pure vegetable glycerin 1 fluid ounce distilled water

With a whisk, blend the glycerin and water together in the top of a double boiler (remember to add water to the bottom). Stir in the gelatin and heat the mixture over a medium-high heat until it turns clear. Pour into a shallow glass pan to set.

This formula is used as a base for suppositories, pessaries, and pastilles.

Since gelatin is an animal-based product, Agar is the better choice. It is seaweed that will "set" when cooled. However, alcohol-based extracts will have to be used in the formula instead of powdered herbs as alcohol will prevent bacteria growth in the Agar base.

Quiz:

1. To make Glyceritum Acidi Tannici, you will need ___ grams of glycerin.

2. Glycerin solution of tar is very valuable in chronic ______.

3. Glycerites are extracts made with pure ______glycerin.

4. Glyceritum Vitelli requires fresh ______.

5. The higher the glycerine contents, the longer the ______.

6. Catnip and Fennel Glycerite are used to combat ______.

7. Glyceritum Amyli if exposed to the atmosphere readily absorbs ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Fifteen - Herbal Lotions

Pennyroyal

Lobelia is said to be the discovery of Samuel Thompson, the father of the patent medicine, who tried it first on a friend while mowing a field. "He first fully satisfied himself that it had emetic properties (induces vomiting)," one record of the event says, "by coaxing his partner, who was mowing with him in the field, to chew the green plant, which he did, and became deadly sick and relaxed, and upon drinking some water he vomited and rapidly recovered from its effects, and felt better afterwards than he did before."

The record tells of two tales, one of Indian tobacco’s first uses by a white man, and the other of the hazards of blind herbal experimentation. There is no clear-cut agreement among herbalists and doctors as to the propriety of using Indian tobacco; some contend the herb is potentially poisonous, others dispute that claim. But it is a fact that Thompson himself was sued in the death of a patient to whom he had prescribed Indian tobacco and found not guilty for lack of evidence that the plant caused the death. Lobelia was officially entered into the U.S. Pharmacopoeia from 1820 to 1936, and in the National Formulary from 1936 to 1960.

Many different types of herbs can be used to make an herbal lotion. One of the more common herbs is Aloe Vera. It is a bitter herb with anti-inflammatory, astringent, emollient, anti fungal, antibacterial and antiviral properties, and is useful in the eradication of parasites and stimulating the uterus. It contains a host of compounds that are biologically active and includes anthraquinones, saccharides and prostaglandins as well as other constituents.

Grape seed oil is an excellent base for making herbal lotions. It is fine textured and almost odorless oil, light in texture and easily absorbed by the skin, having great emollient properties. It contains palmitic, palmitoleic, stearic, oleic, linoleic, alpha linolenic, icosanoic, icosenoic and docosanoic fatty acids and has mildly astringent qualities. Grape seed oil helps to tighten and tone the skin, which makes it useful for skin complaints. It contains proanthocyanidins, which are potent antioxidants, diminishing the sun's damaging effects, lessening free-radical damage and hastening wound healing. Apart from the moisturizing properties, it also helps to regenerate and restructure the skin.

Pennywort (Centella Asiatica) or wild violet as it is also known is indigenous to Africa, India and Australia. It is another excellent herb to use when making herbal lotions. It is a trailing herb that loves moist places and has rounded simple leaves, slender stems and inconspicuous flowers form in short clusters. The herb centella has been used extensively, internally and externally, as a medicine since the 17th century in Africa, India, the Philippines, Java and France. The ancient Indians ate two leaves a day for anti-aging and for tired looking skin. They also used it to treat leprosy sores, syphilis, leg ulcers, slow-healing wounds, venereal sores, tuberculosis, skin lesions and psoriasis. It is called the tiger herb in India, due to the fact that wounded tigers roll themselves in Centella. In Africa they used it to cure syphilis and to treat open and infected wounds. Chinese physicians used it for longevity and to treat fevers, colds and influenza.

To Make an Herbal Lotion:

1. Crush 1 oz. herb leaves or bruise 1 oz. flowers. 2. Add to 1 cup water. 3. Pour the mixture into a ceramic or enamel pot. 4. Add 1 cup water and cover. 5. Slowly bring to a boil. If using flowers, boil very gently. 6. Lower heat and let simmer for about 3 minutes. 7. Remove from heat and let cool. 8. Strain the leaves and flowers. 9. Store the herb water in the refrigerator for about 1 to 2 hours. 10. Melt 1 oz. cocoa butter in a double boiler and slowly add 3 oz. vegetable oil (or grape seed oil). 11. Combine thoroughly. 12. Remove from heat and whisk in 2 oz. of the prepared herb water.

Or

1 ½ oz Sweet Almond Oil ½ oz. Cocoa Butter ½ oz. Vegetable Glycerin 1 ½ Tbsp. Emulsifying Wax 8 oz. Distilled Water (room temperature) 30 - 50 drops Essential Oils

In a heat-safe measuring cup combine the sweet almond oil, cocoa butter, vegetable glycerin, and emulsifying wax. Melt everything together in the microwave (about 1 - 2 minutes) or by the "double-boiler" method (nest the measuring cup into a saucepan containing 1 to 2 inches of water. Heat the mixture over medium heat until melted, stirring occasionally).

Measure out water into a blender. Turn the blender on low and very slowly and steadily pour in the melted oil mixture. You should now have a thick, beautiful lotion.

Add the essential oils last, turning on the blender just enough to incorporate the oils and being careful not to over-blend the mixture. Pour into the jars while still warm, as it will thicken as it cools. Cap jars when completely cooled.

Store any extra lotion in the refrigerator to prolong its shelf life.

You should always test a small area of your skin for allergic reactions before applying lotions or facials to your face.

Lotio Alkalini. - Alkaline Wash.

Preparation.—Take of carbonate of sodium (sal soda), 2 drachms; warm rain-water, 1 quart. Dissolve; or make weak lye, by adding hardwood ashes to hot water.

Action and Medical Uses. — This wash was formerly extensively employed by physicians, as an application to the surface of the body and limbs in all febrile and inflammatory diseases, and in chronic affections. In the former cases it is applied several times a day, especially when the acute symptoms run high; in the latter affections it is commonly used once or twice a week. The surface should be well rubbed and dried immediately after each application. Frequently, when external stimulus is also required, the above proportion of water is lessened 1/4 or 1/2 and the balance of the quantity made up by the addition of whiskey or other spirit.

Lotio Hydrastis Composita. - Compound Lotion of Golden Seal.

Preparation.—Take of strong infusion of green tea and of golden seal, each, 1 pint; sulphate of zinc, gunpowder, each, 2 drachms. Mix the decoction, then add the remainder of the articles, and agitate briskly. After solution and decomposition have ceased, and the precipitate has subsided, pour off the supernatant liquid.

Action and Medical Uses — This curious lotion was employed as a collyrium in chronic ophthalmic diseases, but it may be advantageously employed in all chronic affections of mucous surfaces, as an external application. The affected parts are to be bathed with it several times a day.

Lotio Hydrastis et Aconiti. - Lotion of Golden Seal and Aconite.

Preparation.—Take of golden seal, in powder, 4 drachms; boiling water, 4 fluid ounces: tincture of aconite, 1 fluid drachm. Add the golden seal to the water and digest for 3 hours by a gentle heat; then filter and evaporate to 2 fluid ounces, to which add the tincture of aconite.

Action and Medical Uses — This forms a superior application to the eye in many cases of disease in that organ. It may be applied by means of a camel's-hair pencil, or dropping 1 or 2 minims on the eyeball. I have likewise found immense benefit in these cases by substituting for the tincture of aconite 1 or 2 fluid drachms of the saturated tincture of Black Cohosh. Some physicians employ the hydrochlorate of berberine in preparing the above formula, but as this is insoluble in water, it can effect but little influence. This preparation, used as a wash or injection, will also be found of service in chronic mucous difficulties, as vaginal leucorrhoea, etc. (J. King).

Lotio Lobeliae Composita. - Compound Lobelia Lotion.

Synonym: Herpetic wash.

Preparation — Take of bayberry bark, lobelia leaves and seed, yellow-dock root, each, in powder, 2 drachms; vinegar, 1 pint. Mix these herbs all together, and allow them to macerate for 7 days, and filter or, make the lotion by percolation.

Action and Medical Uses. — This preparation forms an excellent local application to several species of cutaneous disease, also to erysipelas and erysipelatous inflammations. It is frequently prepared with spirits instead of vinegar, especially where more active stimulation is desired. In erysipelas, 1/2 pint of a saturated solution of chloride of ammonium may be added to the above quantity with advantage.

Lotio Sassafras. - Sassafras Lotion.

Preparation.—Take of pith of sassafras, 1 drachm; rose water, 1 pint. Mix. Let them stand for 4 hours, and filter (Beach's Amer. Prac.). Distilled water may he substituted for the rose water, and the preparation may be made more speedily by boiling the mixture for a few minutes.

Action and Medical Uses. — This is an extemporaneous preparation, and is principally used in acute ophthalmia. A similar preparation of marshmallow root, elm bark, or buckhorn brake, will be found equally available.

Lotio Myrrhae Composita. - Compound Myrrh Lotion.

Preparation.—Take of myrrh, in powder, 1/2 ounce; acetate of zinc, 1 1/2 drachms; acetate of lead, 1/2 drachm; water, 2 pints. Add the myrrh to 1 1/2 pints of water, and boil together for 10 or 15 minutes; when cold, add the rest of the water in which the lead and zinc salts have been previously dissolved. Let them stand 24 hours and filter. If necessary, add enough water to pass through the filter to make 2 pints of the lotion (J. King).

Action and Medical Uses.—Compound myrrh lotion was formerly employed in cases of chronic ophthalmia. It will, however, be found useful in all chronic mucous diseases. It is usually applied 3 or 4 times a day, and must not be used during the presence of inflammation. When too severe, it may be diluted with water.

Lotio Juglandis. - Walnut Lotion.

Preparation.—Take of extract of green walnut shells, 6 grains distilled water, 50 grains. Mix and dissolve.

Action and Medical Uses. — This is recommended as an efficient agent in enlargement of the tonsils, and is stated to be very prompt in its effects. It is applied to the parts by means of a camel's-hair pencil

Some Herbal Lotion recipes:

Lavender Body Lotion

Dissolve 1 teaspoon borax in I cup rose water, then slowly add 2 tablespoons of warmed olive oil, beating constantly. When all the oil has been added to the water and it forms an emulsion, add lavender water. (Lavender water is made by infusing a handful of lavender flowers in 2 cups of boiling water.) Let this stand for an hour and then strain and use.

Fennel Cleansing Lotion

1 tsp. fennel infusion (1 c. boiling water to 1 tbsp. crushed fennel seed) 1 tsp. honey 2 tbsp's buttermilk

Mix together and smooth lotion over skin to cleanse. Rub gently. Wipe off with cotton ball soaked in fennel infusion only (no honey/buttermilk). Then pat dry.

After-Sun Lotion Recipe: Comfrey-root extract

1 tbsp. dried or 2 tbsp. fresh comfrey root 1 cup distilled water

Lipid base

1 tbsp. unrefined beeswax 3/4 cup sweet-almond oil 2 tbsp. liquid lecithin 1 tbsp. cocoa butter 4 vitamin-E capsules

Lotion

2 tbsp. comfrey-root extract (above) 4 tbsp. aloe-vera gel 1 tsp. borax powder Prepared lipid base (above) 15 drops lavender essential oil

Make the comfrey-root extract first. In a small pot, add the comfrey root to the distilled water. Bring to a boil. Then cover and lower heat. Simmer for 30 min. Remove from heat and strain into a small bowl; set aside to cool. Mix all the ingredients except the vitamin-E capsules for the lipid base in a double boiler and heat until the wax and cocoa butter have melted. Stir thoroughly and remove from heat. Pierce the vitamin-E capsules with a sterilized needle and squeeze all the contents into the lipid mixture. Stir again and set aside to cool. In another small saucepan, mix the comfrey-root extract and the Aloe-Vera gel for the lotion blend. Then heat over a low flame. Add the borax and stir until it dissolves. Remove from heat. Allow both mixtures to cool to room temperature, stirring occasionally. Slowly pour the lipid-base mixture into the lotion mixture while stirring with a small whisk or spoon. Add the lavender oil and mix well. Store in a plastic or glass bottle and keep out of direct sunlight in a cool, dry location, or in a refrigerator. Apply as needed, using gentle motions.

Soft Skin Lotion

1 cup dried chamomile 4 tablespoons honey 1 cup milk 8 teaspoons wheat germ

Steep the chamomile in milk for a few hours. And then strain while keeping the liquid. Add honey and wheat germ to liquid mixture. Blend well. Place in a bottle. Refrigerate any used portions. Will keep for up to a week, when refrigerated.

Quiz:

1. Grape seed oil helps to ______and ______the skin.

2. Lotion of Golden Seal and Aconite is a superior lotion for the ___.

3. Lavender water is made by infusing a handful of lavender flowers in __ cups of boiling water

4. When making Lotio Sassafras, distilled water may he substituted for the ______.

5. Store any extra lotion in the refrigerator to prolong its ______.

6. Centella Asiatica is also known as ______.

7. Aloe Vera is useful in the eradication of ______and stimulating the ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Sixteen - Herbal Ointments

White Hellebore

The common name of Belladonna derives from its use in eye drops by women from the Roman period through to the Renaissance. It contains a muscle relaxant and acts on the eye muscles to relax the eye and therefore dilate the pupil, hence mimicking the effect of sexual interest or arousal and leading to its being known as ―beautiful lady‖ or belladonna. Permanent damage to the eyes may result, as may permanent brain damage.

An alternative explanation of the name claims that it derives from Bellona, a goddess of war. The plant was known by various names during the 16th and 17th century, and the modern name comes from that which the apothecaries used, Solatrum mortale, which means deadly nightshade.

The generic name, "Atropa", is derived from the Greek, Atropos, one of the fates that held the shears to cut the thread of human life. According to folklore it is a plant that belongs to the Christian Devil.

Ointments can either be made by adding a fats and/or waxes to infused oils, or by heating the botanicals in certain fats. Essential oils can also be added to fats or combinations of oils and fats/waxes.

As always, use a small portion of ointment on the skin before applying it to a large area of your body.

Fats

Lard, Vegetable shortening, cocoa butter, or commercial ointment bases can be used to make ointments. Petroleum jelly is sometimes used by modern herbalists. The choice of a base should depend on the purpose. For instance items with petroleum products will be absorbed less well into the skin than those with vegetable or animal fats.

Measure the amount of fat you wish to use into a pan, preferably in a double boiler; or use a bowl in a crock pot as described for oils. Heat the fat on medium-low or low until liquefied. Add the botanicals (1 part dried herb to 3-4 parts base, and 1 part fresh herb to 1 to 2 parts base). Stir them in completely. Heat, on medium low heat for 2 to 3 hours or until the herbs are crisp. Strain out through a piece of muslin or a jelly bag. Pour quickly into suitable containers and allow cooling.

Note: you can also melt the ointment and whisk in essential oils.

Oil & Beeswax

Though paraffin wax is much cheaper than beeswax, it is not absorbed as well into the skin. (Paraffin was discovered in 1830.) The proportion of oil to wax can vary depending on how thick and waxy you want the result. (In cold climates, use less wax; in warm climates, use more wax.) Melt the wax in a double boiler or a can or jar in a pan of water (don't expect to be able to use the top pan, jar or can for anything but wax!) When the wax is melted, remove from heat and slowly pour in the oil, stirring continuously with a cheap whisk If it starts to separate, move it back into the hot water bath and whisk vigorously until incorporated. Remove from heat, cover and let set. If the ointment turns out to be too squishy or too hard when cool, you can re-melt it in a water bath and add more wax or oil. All ointments last longer when kept in a cool dry place. Fat-based ointments should generally be kept under refrigeration. Generally use within 6 months to a year. Over time, development of 'bloom' or discoloration may indicate contamination: discard immediately!

Basic Ointment:

Crush fresh or dried herbs and simmer with fat of your choice (i.e. lard, olive oil, safflower oil, etc). Simmer on top of stove in top of double boiler for several hours. Or, they may be baked in the oven for several hours in the fat using a low heat. Strain and place back on heat, then melt beeswax in it. Pour into jar.

Unguentum Acidi Salicylici. - Ointment of Salicylic Acid.

Preparation.—"Take of salicylic acid, 60 grains; soft paraffin, 1080 grains; hard paraffin, 540 grains. Melt the hard and soft paraffins together, add the salicylic acid, and stir the whole constantly until cold"—(Br. Pharm., 1885). The salicylic acid strength is here 1 in 28. The British Pharmacopoeia (1898) directs strength of but 1 in 50.

Unguentum Aconiti. - Ointment of Aconite.

Preparation.—Take of alcoholic extract of aconite, 1 drachm; lard, 2 drachms. Soften the extract with a small quantity of alcohol, if necessary, and mix with the lard (see Stramonium Ointment).

Action and Medical Uses. — This ointment is used in violent neuralgic and rheumatic pains (Turnbull).

Unguentum Belladonnae (U. S. P.) - Belladonna Ointment.

Preparation — "Alcoholic extract of belladonna leaves, ten grammes (10 Gm.), [154 grs.]; diluted alcohol, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]; benzoinated lard, eighty-five grammes (85 Gm.) [3 ozs. av.]; to make one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) 13 ozs. av., 231 grs.]. Rub the extract with the diluted alcohol until it is uniformly soft, then gradually add the lard, and mix thoroughly"—(U. S. P.).

Action and Medical Uses — This forms an anodyne application for the relief of pain and spasm, and may be advantageously applied to local neuralgia, to painful joints, to dilate the pupil, and also the os uteri, and to the denuded spine in violent tetanus, delirium tremens, and puerperal convulsions. It is to be preferred to atropine ointment as an application to the uterus and vagina.

Unguentum Cucumis. - Ointment of Cucumber.

Preparation.—Take of green cucumbers (suitable for table use), 7 pounds; pure white lard, 24 ounces; selected veal suet, cut in pieces, 15 ounces. The unparsed cucumbers, after being washed, are to be reduced to a pulp by grating, and the juice expressed and strained. The suet is to be heated over a salt water-bath until the fat is fused out from the membranes; then add the lard, and, when liquefied, strain the mixture through muslin into a wide-mouthed earthen vessel capable of holding a gallon, and stir it until it commences to thicken, when one-third of the cucumber juice is to be added and beaten with the ointment, by means of a wooden spatula, until its odor has been almost wholly extracted. Then allow it to stand until the fluid separates, which must be removed by decantation, and add another third of the juice. This must be beaten in like manner until exhausted, then decanted, and finally the last third added and similarly treated. The jar is then to be closely covered and placed in a water-bath, where it must remain an hour, or until the fatty matter entirely separates from the enveloped juice. The green albuminous coagulum which floats upon the surface is then to be skimmed off, and the jar put aside in a cool place, that the ointment may solidify. The crude ointment is then to be carefully separated from the watery liquid on which it floats, melted by a gentle heat, and strained—part in a jar, and closely sealed for keeping— the remainder into a mortar, and triturated with a little rose water, until it is very white and creamy, for present use. It is usual to keep this ointment in nearly-filled glass jars, and to cover it with rose water to prevent the access of air. Thus prepared, cucumber ointment readily keeps from season to season (W. Procter, Jr.).

Action and Medical Uses - This forms an emollient application, very useful for chapped lips and hands, irritated or excoriated surfaces, etc.

Unguentum Eucalypti - Ointment of Eucalyptus.

Preparation. - "Take oil of eucalyptus, by weight, 1 ounce (av.); soft paraffin, hard paraffin, of each, 2 ounces (av.). Melt the hard and soft paraffin’s together add the oil, and stir until cold"—(Br. Pharm., 1885). The British Pharmacopoeia (1898) directs an ointment of half the above strength in oil of eucalyptus.

Action and Medical Uses - This ointment is used chiefly in skin diseases, and as an antiseptic and stimulant dressing for old ulcers.

Unguentum Myricae. - Ointment of Bayberry.

Preparation. - Take of bayberry-tallow, white turpentine, each, 2 ounces; olive oil, 1 ounce. Melt together, and strain"—(Beach's Amer. Prac.).

Action and Medical Uses. - This forms an excellent application to scrofulous ulcers and indolent ulcers generally.

Unguentum Phytolaccae. - Ointment of Poke.

Preparation. - Take of the leaves of poke, collected just before the ripening of the berries, 4 pounds; lard, 1 pound; spirit, 1 pint; wax, 2 ounces. Mix and slowly simmer together until the leaves are crisp, and then express through linen. An ointment is sometimes made by mixing 1 1/2 drachms of powdered poke leaves or root, or of the extract of poke, with 1 ounce of lard (see Stramonium Ointment).

Action and Medical Uses - This is used as an application to ulcers, porrigo, tinea capitis, and other cutaneous affections, and as a discutient to various tumors (J. King).

Unguentum Veratri Albi — Ointment of White Hellebore.

Preparation — "Take of veratrum album (the root) in powder, 2 ounces; lard, 8 ounces; oil of lemon, 20 minims. Mix them together—(Lond.).

Action and Medical Uses — This ointment, being more agreeable than sulphur ointment, is sometimes employed in itch with benefit; but it should be cautiously applied to children. The substitution of poke ointment for the lard will render it still more certain and effective.

Following are some of my favorite Ointment recipes:

Calendula Ointment:

7 oz petroleum jelly 2 oz (a handful) freshly picked calendula flowers

Melt petroleum jelly over low heat. Add calendula. Bring mixture to a boil and simmer very gently for about 10 min, stirring well. Strain through fine gauze and press out all the liquid from the flowers. Pour liquid into container and seal after it has cooled.

Chickweed Ointment:

Good first aid for cuts, nicks, bites and scratches, itches and rashes. 12 oz fresh chickweed 1 pint olive or sweet almond oil ½ oz beeswax

In ovenproof container combine Chickweed and oil. Place in 150°F oven for 3 hours; strain and add ½ oz melted beeswax to oil (always melt waxes in top of double boiler to avoid fire); stir as mixture thickens.

Cucumber Ointment:

Used as a healing and cleansing cream. 1 lb cucumber 3¼ oz pure lard 2¼ oz veal suet

Grate the washed cucumbers into a pulp or use a blender or food processer. Strain the juice out and save. Cut the suet into small pieces and heat over a water bath till the fat is melted out from the membrane. Add the lard. When melted, strain through the muslin into a crock or jar capable of holding up to 1 quart. Stir until it begins to thicken. Add 1/3 of the juice. Beat with a spatula till the odor has been wholly extracted. Put into jar and cover. Heat in a water bath, till the fatty matter, separates from the juice. Strain off the green coagulum floating on the surface. Put jar in a cool place to solidify. The crude ointment is then separated from the water liquid on which it floats, is melted and strained and then placed in glass jars which must be kept sealed. Add a layer of rosewater on the surface to help preserve it. Rosewater may also be added to make this preparation creamy and white.

Juniper Berry Ointment:

Useful for wounds, itching, scratches, scars from burns, hangnails and festering sores. Collect the berries from the garden or the wild just as they are getting ripe.

2 cups juniper berries 2 cups oil (olive, peanut, safflower, sweet almond, or etc) 2 to 3 tbsp beeswax

Soak berries overnight. Strain out the water. Simmer the berries over very low heat in the oil in the top of a double boiler and take care not to burn. Remove from heat and strain out berries. Return to heat and add beeswax. When melted pour into appropriate containers.

Lavender Ointment:

25 drops essential oil of lavender 10 drops essential oil of lemon (or Neroli) 5 drops essential oil of thyme 2 tbsp oil of lavender (which is prepared by infusing flowers in olive oil) 60 g beeswax

Melt beeswax in top of double boiler, and then beat in oil of lavender. As ointment begins to cool, add the essential oils and continue to beat till cool. Store in covered jar in the refrigerator.

Sage and Sweet Violet Ointment:

Good for chapped lips, cold sores and chapped skin. 2 tbsp finely chopped fresh sage leaves 2 tbsp sweet violets 4 tbsp sweet almond oil

Combine ingredients in a small stopper bottle. Leave in a warm place for 1 month, shaking daily. Strain into a bowl and add 4 tbsp each of almond oil and melted beeswax which have been melted together in the top of a double boiler. Beat until cold. Then store in an airtight jar in a cool place.

Skin Ointment:

This is an ointment which is general in purpose and can be used on almost all skin problems. ¾ oz dried chickweed ¾ oz dried comfrey leaf (or root) ½ oz dried calendula flowers 8 to 9 oz of sweet almond oil (or olive oil or combo of the two) ¼ oz (approx) of grated beeswax 800 IU vitamin E

Optional: Echinacea and usnea extracts can be added just before the beeswax for their antiseptic properties.

Powder herbs Combine herbs and oil in a Pyrex bowl or the top of a double boiler. Place ¾" water in an electric skillet and bring temp to a steady 95°F. Place bowl in water in skillet and clip cooking thermometer to side of bowl with tip touching the oil. When a steady temp of 95° to 98° degrees is attained, allow to simmer for 12 to 14 hours or till herbs look "used up". Strain through fine muslin and into a measuring cup to remove all traces of the herbs. See how much oil you have recovered; it should be about 4 oz. Add a bit of oil if it doesn't. Return oil to cleaned bowl or pan and raise the temp in the skillet to 150°. Keeping heat at 150°, return bowl or pan to skillet and add beeswax (melts at about 148°F). Keep stirring well till beeswax is melted. Test for desired consistency by dropping a drop or two into the bottom of a jar which will hold the ointment. When desired consistency is reached, remove from heat and add contents of vitamin E capsule(s). You can also add the tinctures at this time. Allow it to set up; cap tightly.

Quiz:

1. The generic name, "Atropa", is derived from the ______.

2. Paraffin was discovered in ____.

3. Unguentum Cucumis is very useful for ______.

4. When making Chickweed ointment, it is placed in the oven for ______.

5. Juniper Berry Ointment is useful for scars from ______.

6. Unguentum Cucumis keeps from ______to ______.

7. As a base, ______is sometimes used by modern herbalists.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Seventeen - Herbal Confections

Senna

The earliest documented recipe for a baked beaten-egg-white-and-sugar confection is the handwritten recipe for ―white bisket bread‖ by Lady Elinor Fettiplace (c. 1570 - c. 1647) in a manuscript book, dated 1604 3. She lived at Appleton Manor in Berkshire (now in Oxfordshire) a short distance southwest of Oxford with her husband, Sir Richard Fettiplace, and their family. When she died in 1647, she left her book to her niece. Through a long chain of inheritances and marriages, more than three hundred years later, the book finally came into the hands of John Spurling. His wife, Hilary, used the book in the family kitchen for ten years before she wrote, Elinor Fettiplace’s Receipt Book — Elizabethan Country House Cooking, 1986 (Viking Salamander, London).

Confections are semi-solid preparations of medicinal agents preserved by means of sugar, or honey, or both.

Conserves, as originally understood, were composed of fresh or un-dried, medicinal vegetables laid down in sugar. Subsequently it became common to prepare them by beating fresh vegetable medicines and sugar into a uniform soft mass, the juices of the vegetables furnishing sufficient moisture. When fresh drugs were not obtainable, dried drugs, either whole or powdered, were used, and sufficient water added to soften the mass.

Electuaries were understood to comprise the mixture of powdered drugs with such softening and preserving agents as honey, syrups, or pulps, made into a uniform, pasty mass by thorough trituration in a mortar. If honey and pulpy substances are employed the electuary is not apt to become dry, hard, and crystalline, as is often the case when syrups are used. Such substances as light insoluble salts, soluble salts, extracts, oils, gum-resins, etc., may be made into electuaries. Heavy insoluble powders should not be used, as they are likely to settle, and finally to be found mainly at the bottom of the preparation. Extracts to be used in preparing electuaries should first be softened with water or other suitable liquids; non-pulverized gum-resins should first be emulsified, and essential oils should be first rubbed with some inert powder or sugar. Freshly made electuaries should be soft enough to drop easily from a spatula. If so soft that the ingredients separate on standing they must be again brought into a uniform mixture by stirring. It is desirable that they be firm enough to hold up their several ingredients, and still be so soft that mastication is not required.

Confectio Rosae (U. S. P.)—Confection of Rose.

Preparation. - "Red rose, in No. 60 powder, eighty grammes (80 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 360 grs.]; sugar, in fine powder, six hundred and forty grammes (640 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 6 ozs., 252 grs.]; clarified honey, one hundred and twenty grammes (120 Gm.) [4 ozs. av., 102 grs.]; stronger rose water, one hundred and sixty cubic centimeters (160 Cc.) [5 fl, 197]. Rub the red rose with the stronger rose water previously heated to 65° C. (149° F.), then gradually add the sugar and honey, and beat the whole together until a uniform mass results"

The U. S. formula is:

Red Rose (the dried petals), in No. 60 powder, 2 ounces. Sugar 16 ounces. Clarified honey, 3 ounces. Rose Water, 4 ounces.

Rub the Rose (petals) with the Rose Water, heated to 65° C. (149° F.), then gradually add the Sugar and Honey, and beat the whole together until thoroughly mixed.

The British formula is:

Fresh Red-Rose Petals, 1 part or 1 pound. Refined Sugar, 3 parts or 3 pounds.

Beat the Petals to a pulp in a stone mortar, add the Sugar, and rub them well together. This is used in making several official pills, and is much prescribed in pill masses, etc.

Confectio Sennae (U. S. P.) - Confection of Senna.

Related entry: Senna (U. S. P.) - Senna - Confections

Preparation. - "Senna, in No. 60 powder, one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.]; cassia fistula, bruised, one hundred and sixty grammes (160 Gm.) [5 ozs. av., 282 grs.]; tamarind, one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.]; prune, sliced, seventy grammes (70 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 205 grs.]; fig, bruised, one hundred and twenty grammes (120 Gm.) [4 ozs. av., 102 grs.]; sugar, in fine powder, five hundred and fifty-five grammes (555 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 3 ozs., 252 grs.]; oil of coriander, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]; water, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand grammes, (1000 Gm.) [2 lbs. av., 3 ozs., 120 grs.]. Place the cassia fistula, tamarind, prune, and fig in a close vessel with five hundred cubic centimeters (500 Cc.) [16 fl, 435] of water, and digest for 3 hours by means of a water-bath. Separate the coarser portions with the hand, and rub the pulpy mass, first through a coarse hair sieve, and then through a fine one, or through a muslin cloth. Mix the residue with one hundred and fifty cubic centimeters (150 Cc.) [5 fl, 35] of water, and having digested the mixture for a short time, treat it as before, and add the product to the pulpy mass first obtained. Then, by means of a water-bath, dissolve the sugar in the pulpy liquid, and evaporate the whole, in a tared vessel, until it weighs eight hundred and ninety-five grammes (895 Gm.) [1 lb. av., 15 ozs., 250 grs.]. Lastly, add the senna and the oil of coriander, and incorporate them thoroughly with the other ingredients while they are yet warm"—(U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - When correctly prepared, this confection is a pleasant, mild, and very effectual purgative, useful during pregnancy and for patients afflicted with costiveness, hemorrhoids, or diseases of the rectum. It forms a vehicle for the administration of some purgative drugs. The dose is from 1 to 3 drachms, or more.

Confectio Sennae Composita. - Compound Confection of Senna.

Preparation - Take of confection of senna 1 ounce, bitartrate of potassium 1/2 ounce, pulverized jalap 3 drachms; nitrate of potassium, flowers of sulphur, each, 2 drachms; extract of butternut, a sufficient quantity to form into a mass of pilular consistence. Keep in small glass jars well covered with tin foil.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This confection has been used with advantage in constipation and in hemorrhoids of whatever form. A dose of 12 or 16 grains may be taken in pill form, repeating it twice a day, so as to act mildly on the bowels.

Confectio Sulphuris. - Confection of Sulphur.

Preparation. - Rub intimately together, 4 ounces (av.) of sulphur, 1 ounce (av.) of potassium bitartrate, 4 fluid ounces of syrup of orange-peel, and 18 grains of powdered tragacanth.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This method of exhibiting the two laxatives, sulphur and cream of tartar is beneficial in cases of hemorrhoids. The stools produced are semi-solid and copious. The dose is from 1 to 2 drachms.

Confectio Terebinthinae - Confection of Turpentine.

Preparation - Take 1 ounce of oil of turpentine, 1 ounce of powdered licorice-root, and 2 ounces of clarified honey. Rub first the turpentine and licorice together, and mix in the honey until the whole is uniformly and intimately mixed.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This is a convenient form for administering turpentine in cases of flatulence, round worms, rheumatic complaints, tympanites, and passive hemorrhages. The dose ranges from 1 to 2 drachms.

Confections are substances resembling soft, solid extracts, prepared by incorporating medicines with sugar or other saccharine matter and aromatics. They were once very popular, but are now little used. Similar preparations, varying somewhat in consistence and manner of making, were formerly known as Electuaries and Conserves, and as such they are still called for occasionally.

Confectio Opii, Br. - Confection of Opium.

Compound Powder of Opium, 100 grains or 1 part.

Syrup, 300 grains or 3 parts,

Mix. Dose, 5 to 20 grains.

As the compound powder of Opium contains 10 per cent. of opium, this is about the same as the U. S. 1870 preparation, which was made as follows:

Opium, in fine powder, 270 grains. Aromatic Powder, 6 tr.ounces. Clarified Honey, 14 tr.ounces. Mix, etc.

This confection was much used during the past century under the names of Theriaca. and Mithridate, wonderful virtues being ascribed to it. It is still occasionally called for by those names.

Some herbal confection recipes:

Confection of Almonds or Almond Paste

Sweet Almonds, 8 ounces White Sugar, 4 ounces Powdered Acacia, 1 ounce

Blanch the Almonds, and beat them with the other ingredients until all are reduced to a uniform smooth confection.

Milk of Almonds may be prepared from this confection by rubbing a portion of it with water and straining through cloth.

Confection of Orange Peel

Sweet Orange Peel, recently separated from the fruit by grating 1 troy ounce Sugar 3 troy ounces

Beat them together into a confection. This was formerly official in the U. S. P.

Candied Sweet Flag

Fresh Sweet Flag or Calamus is peeled, cut in pieces or sliced, and simmered with syrup for several hours, then drained and dried. Many other confections of fresh aromatic roots, barks, fruit and flowers, may be prepared in the same manner. Angelica root, ginger root, lemon and orange peel, rose and violet flowers, and some of the aromatic seeds or fruits, as caraway, fennel, etc., are thus prepared.

About Marshmallow:

Modern day Marshmallows no longer contain the herb that gives them their name. Real marsh mallow is a plant with a long root that is found growing in a marsh. Nineteenth century doctors extracted juice from the marsh mallow plant's roots and cooked it with egg whites and sugar, then whipped the mixture into a foamy meringue that later hardened, creating a medicinal candy used to soothe children's sore throats. In time, advanced manufacturing processes and improved texturing agents eliminated the need for the Marshmallow root juice altogether. Unfortunately, that eliminated the confection's healing properties as a cough suppressant, immune system booster and wound healer.

Quiz:

1. This confection has been used with advantage in constipation and in hemorrhoids of whatever form. ______.

2. This confection was much used during the past century under the names of Theriaca and Mithridate ______

3. Conserves, as originally understood, were composed of fresh or un-dried, medicinal vegetables laid down in ______.

4. The dose for Confection of Sulphur is ______.

5. Confection of Senna is a very effective ______.

6. Sulphur and cream of tartar are considered to be ______.

7. Sweet Flag is also known as ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Eighteen - Troches

Peppermint

Peppermint oil is one of the world's oldest medicinal herbs, with use documented in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome. Colonists found the Indians using Native American mints to treat cough, chest congestion, and pneumonia. The colonists introduced spearmint and peppermint, and the plants quickly went wild. By the late 19th century, the Eclectics prescribed peppermint for headache, cough, bronchitis, stomach distress and menstrual discomforts, and added to laxatives to minimize intestinal cramping and disguise their unpleasant taste. Its generic name, Mentha, is derived from the mythological origin ascribed to it, and was originally applied to the mint by Theophrastus. Menthe was a nymph, who because of the love Pluto bore her, was metamorphosed by Proserpine, from motives of jealousy, into the plant we now call mint.

Troches, or lozenges, are medicinal substances in powder, which are formed into solid cakes, by the aid of sugar and gum. These cakes are circular, flat, a line or so in thickness, and about 1/2 inch in diameter. They are usually intended for gradual solution while retained in the mouth, and form a very pleasant mode of exhibiting many useful remedies. Gum Arabic and tragacanth are both employed, but the latter is preferred on account of the greater cohesiveness of its gum.

In preparing troches, the best tragacanth should be selected, and placed in sufficient cold water to form mucilage of the consistence of paste; this must be strained previous to using it. The medicinal powders having been well incorporated with the sugar are by means of a sufficient quantity of the mucilage of tragacanth, worked into a soft dough, upon a plate of marble or porcelain. After all have been duly incorporated, the thick paste or dough is rolled out on the marble plate, its adhesion to the roller being prevented by sprinkling over it, from time to time, some powdered starch, or a powder of starch and sugar. Uniformity of thickness is affected by the use of a frame of wood or iron, which is placed upon the marble plate, and upon which the extremities of the roller move during the process of rolling. The rolled-out or extended layer of dough is now sprinkled with some of the powdered starch, and the troches are cut of the required shape and size by means of a tin-plate punch.

The troches are then placed on a sieve, and dried in a drying-room or closet, after which the superfluous powder is removed by means of the sieve, and the troches placed in well- covered bottles (Mohr and Redwood).

And yet another method is:

To make Troches, a board about 5x10 inches, with a rim projecting above its surface about 1/8 of an inch, and a cylindrical rolling-pin, should be provided.

The ingredients are then to be mixed into a stiff mass or dough, the board dusted with a mixture of powdered sugar and starch, and the mass rolled out between the projecting lateral edges of the board, filling it entirely from the end out, as far as it will.

It is then to be divided with a knife or spatula into the required number of Troches, and dried by gentle heat. Lozenge cutters that make about 12- grains Troches may be obtained of jobbers or dealers in pharmaceutical apparatus, but they cut only a definite size, not adapting themselves to the specific quantity of the medicinal agent directed in the formula..

"Lozenges are frequently composed of extract of liquorices and gum Arabic with sugar, which renders them quite tough, so as to become unmanageable by long standing. In such cases, the best mode is to thoroughly mix the articles together, and then add the sugar, in the form of a dense syrup, made with but two-thirds of the usual quantity of water required for simple syrup, mix it quickly, and, while yet warm, roll the mass into long cylinders, and, when nearly dry, cut them of the required size". It may be added that troches are not now used as freely as they were when the foregoing was written. Sugar and gelatin-coated pills, triturations, and tablets have largely superseded them.

"Troches generally have a shelf life of about one year."

Trochisci Capsici. - Troches of Capsicum.

Preparation - Take of capsicum, in powder, 1/2 ounce; sugar, 6 ounces; mucilage of gum tragacanth, a sufficient quantity. Mix the sugar and capsicum thoroughly together, and, with the mucilage, beat them into a proper mass for making 240 lozenges.

Action and Medical Uses - These troches will be found useful in dryness and irritation of the throat, relaxed uvula, and in all cases where capsicum is indicated. Each troche contains 1 grain of capsicum.

Trochisci Capsici et Lobeliae. - Troches of Capsicum and Lobelia.

Preparation - Take of capsicum, in powder, 1/2 ounce; oil of lobelia, 24 minims; sugar, 6 ounces; mucilage of tragacanth, a sufficient quantity. Mix the sugar and capsicum thoroughly together, add the oil, and, with the mucilage, beat them into a proper mass for making 240 lozenges.

Action and Medical Uses - These troches are stimulant and expectorant, and may be employed wherever such a combination is desired. Each troche contains 1 grain of capsicum, and 1/10 minim of oil of lobelia.

Trochisci Glycyrrhizae Composita - Compound Troches of Liquorice.

Preparation.—Take of ammonium chloride, in powder, 1 1/2 drachms; hydrochlorate of morphine, 6 grains; gum Arabic, sugar, extract of liquorice, each, in powder, 7 drachms; oil of sassafras, 30 minims; oil of stillingia, 20 minims; tincture of balsam of tolu, 3 fluid drachms. Mix the powders thoroughly together, then add the oils and tincture, and with water form them into a mass, to be divided into 180 troches.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These troches are very valuable in cough, irritation or tickling of the throat, laryngitis and bronchitis, in which affections they are unrivaled. Each troche contains 1/20 grain of morphine hydrochlorate.

Trochisci Glycyrrhizae et Opii (U. S. P.) - Troches of Glycyrrhiza and Opium.

Preparation. - "Extract of glycyrrhiza, in fine powder, fifteen grammes (15 Gm.) [232 grs.]; powdered opium, one-half gramme (0.5 Gm.) [8 grs.]; acacia, in fine powder, twelve grammes (12 Gm.) [185 grs.]; sugar, in fine powder, twenty grammes (20 Gm.) [309 grs.]; oil of anise, two-tenths of a cubic centimeter (0.2 Cc.) [3]; water, a sufficient quantity to make 100 troches. Rub the powders together until they are thoroughly mixed; then add the oil of anise (equivalent to about 4 drops), and incorporate it with the mixture. Lastly, with water, form a mass, to be divided into 100 troches "(U. S. P.). About 1/2 grain of opium is contained in each troche. A similar troche, bearing same title as the official preparation, was very popular under the name of Wistar's Cough Lozenge. (The official troche is also known by this common name.) Wistar's cough lozenges are prepared as follows: Take of powdered opium, 1 drachm; powdered liquorice, 3 ounces; powdered gum Arabic, 2 1/2 ounces; powdered white sugar, 2 ounces. Triturate these thoroughly together, with oil of anise 20 minims, and finally add a sufficient quantity of water to form a mass of the proper consistence. Divide into troches of 5 or 6 grains each. Ten lozenges contain 1 grain of opium.

Action and Medical Uses - These lozenges are a soothing and lenitive preparation for catarrhs and tickling coughs, in cases where opium is not contraindicated.

Trochisci Rhei et Potassae. - Troches of Rhubarb and Potassa.

Preparation - Take of rhubarb, in powder, 2 ounces; bicarbonate of potassium, 1 ounce; oil of peppermint, 1 fluid drachm; sugar, 12 ounces; mucilage of tragacanth, a sufficient quantity. Rub the rhubarb, sugar and potassium salt thoroughly together; then add the oil, and, with the mucilage, beat them into a proper mass for 500 lozenges.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - These troches may be used by persons subject to or laboring under diarrhoea, dysentery, cholera morbus, aridity of stomach, heartburn, etc. They will also prove tonic in small quantity. From 6 to 12 may be used daily. Each troche contains 2 grains of rhubarb.

Trochisci Zingiberis (U. S. P.) - Troches of Ginger.

Preparation. - "Tincture of ginger, twenty cubic centimeters (20 Cc.) [325]; tragacanth, in fine powder, four grammes (4 Gm.) [62 grs.]; sugar, in fine powder, one hundred and thirty grammes (130 Gm.) [4 ozs. av., 256 grs.]; syrup of ginger, a sufficient quantity to make 100 troches. Mix the tincture of ginger with the sugar, and, having exposed the mixture to the air until dry, reduces it to a fine powder. To this add the tragacanth, and mix thoroughly. Lastly, with syrup of ginger, form a mass, to be divided into 100 troches" - (U. S. P.). About 3 minims of tincture of ginger are contained in each troche.

Action and Medical Uses. - These form a grateful cordial stimulant, and may be used in all cases of flatulence, debility of the stomach, etc.

Trochisci Menthae Piperitae (U. S. P.) - Troches of Peppermint.

Preparation. - "Oil of peppermint, one cubic centimeter (1 Cc.) [16]; sugar, in fine powder, eighty grammes (80 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 360 grs.]; mucilage of tragacanth, a sufficient quantity to make 100 troches. Rub the oil of peppermint and the sugar together until they are thoroughly mixed; then, with mucilage of tragacanth, form a mass, to be divided into 100 troches " - (U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage. - These are carminative and antispasmodic, and will be found useful in sick stomach, slight pains in the stomach or bowels, flatulency, and griping from purgative medicines. If eaten too freely, they cause derangement of the stomach. Dose, 1 to 5 or more troches.

More Recipes:

Trochisci Acidi Benzoici. (Benzoic Acid Lozenges)

Benzoic Acid, 360 grains. Refined Sugar, in powder, 25 ounces av. Gum Acacia, in powder, 1 ounce av. Mucilage of Gum Acacia, 2 fl.ounces. Distilled Water, a sufficiency.

Mix the Benzoic Acid, Sugar and Gum, adds the Mucilage and Water to form a proper mass. Divide into 720 Lozenges and dry in a hot-air chamber at a moderate temperature.

Each Lozenge contains half a grain of Benzoic Acid.

Trochisci Krameriae. (Troches of Krameria (Rhatany).

Extract of Krameria, 100 grains or 6.50 grammes. Sugar, in fine powder, 1000 grains or 65.00 grammes. Tragacanth, in fine powder, 25 grains or 1.60 grammes. Orange Flower Water, sufficient to make 100 troches.

Rub the powders together until they are thoroughly mixed, then, with Orange Flower Water, form a mass, to be divided into 100 Troches.

Trochisci Cubebae. (Troches of Cubeb)

Oleoresin of Cubeb, 50 grains or 3.25 grammes. Oil of Sassafras, 15 grains or 1.00 gramme. Extract of Liquorice, in fine powder, 400 grains or 26.00 grammes. Acacia, in fine powder, 200 grains or 13.00 grammes. Syrup of Tolu, sufficient to make 100 Troches.

Rub the powders together until they are thoroughly mixed, then add the Oleoresin and Oil and incorporate them with the mixture. Lastly, with Syrup of Tolu, form a mass, to be divided into 100 Troches.

Trochisci Cretae. (Troches of Chalk)

Prepared Chalk, 400 grains or 26.00 grammes. Acacia, in fine powder, 100 grains or 6.50 grammes. Nutmeg, in fine powder, 15 grains or 1.00 gramme. Sugar, in fine powder, 600 grains or 39.00 grammes.

Rub them together until they are thoroughly mixed, then with Water, form a mass, to be divided into 100 Troches.

A great variety of other Troches or Lozenges may be made in the same general manner as the foregoing. Manufacturers quote long lists of Troches, Lozenges, or Tablets, which are usually compressed, as previously described. Formulas for any desired combination may readily be made by taking the required amount of the medicinal agents to make Troches, and adding Sugar, Gum, Mucilage, etc., sufficient to make 100 Troches of the required size.

Quiz:

1. Mentha was originally applied to the mint by ______.

2. Trochisci Capsici et Lobeliae is both ______and ______.

3. Each lozenge of Trochisci Acidi Benzoici contains a ______of Benzoic Acid.

4. Lozenges are generally made in quantities of ___.

5. Lozenges of Trochisci Glycyrrhizae et Opii ate used in cases where ______is not contraindicated.

6. Lozenges are frequently composed of extract of ______and ______with sugar.

7. Troches, or lozenges, are medicinal substances in powder, which are formed into ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Nineteen - Medicinal Vinegars

Golden seal

In 400 B.C, Hypocrites, known as the father of medicine, treated patients with vinegar, making it one of the world’s first medicines. The French call vinegar "vin aigre", meaning sour wine. Around 5,000 BCE, the Babylonians used vinegar as a preservative and as a condiment, and it was they who began flavoring it with herbs and spices. When Hannibal was crossing the Alps with an army riding elephants, it was vinegar that helped pave the way. Obstructive boulders were heated and doused with vinegar, which cracked and crumbled the boulders.

The healing power of cider vinegar, also called apple-cider vinegar, was first touted by Vermont physician D.C. Jarvis, who believed it prevented illness in pets. He then extended the use of this vinegar to people, suggesting that regular doses of cider vinegar and honey could increase longevity.

Those with kidney problems should avoid using vinegar as a medicinal property, because of the high potassium content.

As an antiseptic, vinegar is helpful in treating infectious or potentially infectious conditions such as boils, acne, minor scrapes and some fungal infections. Apple cider vinegar is an excellent supplement. It provides potassium, calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and iron. It has no saturated fat, no cholesterol and no sodium. The acid in vinegar will help digest your food, and over a period of time, will alleviate heartburn if caused by a lack of stomach acid. This is a better treatment then taking antacid tablets. Acid reflux problem may be related to taking medications such as ibuprofen. Stomach ulcers are caused by bacteria and many people with stomach ulcers are aspirin users. Cider vinegar is a germicide and thus be able to help fight infection and inflammation when administered internally or externally. It helps prevent blood clots and stimulates the excretory organs. It is therefore an important elimination-promoting agent and blood purifier. The vitamin C and beta-carotene in cider vinegar destroy free radicals that weaken the immune system and increase the risk of various diseases. The acids in cider vinegar control the proliferation of yeast in the intestine.

Since wine is an altered state of vinegar so to speak, I have included some medicated wines in this section as well.

Medicated Wines:

By medicated wines we mean vinous tinctures of those medicinal agents which are capable of yielding their virtues to wine, either pure or diluted. As a rule vinous tinctures are much inferior to alcoholic, on account of their tendency to decomposition, and the uncertainty of their strength, and should therefore be made without heat, in limited quantities at a time, and kept cool in well-closed bottles. Wines owe their solvent properties largely to the alcohol which they contain, as well as to the acid (chiefly acid tartrate of potassium) which they usually hold in greater or less proportion; and in the selection of them for medicinal purposes, the purest qualities only should be chosen. Native wine forms an elegant medicated wine, when the article is to be used immediately; but if the compound be allowed to stand for any time fermentation and decomposition take place, hence the necessity for the official stronger wine. Medicated wines, like tinctures, may be prepared by maceration, or by percolation, or by dissolving the substance in wine.

I. By Maceration - The powdered article or articles are placed in wine, and are allowed to macerate in a closed glass bottle, usually for 14 days, with occasional agitation; after which the articles are expressed if necessary, and filtered through paper or a fine muslin cloth.

II. By Percolation - The powdered article or articles are first covered with wine, and allowed to stand until they are moistened throughout, which generally requires from 24 to 36 hours; the whole is then transferred to a percolator, and wine gradually poured on and allowed to percolate or filter until the requisite amount has passed.

Vinum Aurantii (N. F.)—Wine of Orange.

Preparation.—"Oil of bitter orange, one cubic centimeter; alcohol, ten cubic centimeters; purified talcum (F. 395), fifteen grammes; sherry wine, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters. Triturate the purified talcum, first with the alcohol, in which the oil of bitter orange bad previously been dissolved, and afterward with seven hundred and fifty cubic centimeters of sherry wine, gradually added. Filter the mixture through a wetted filter, returning the first portions of the filtrate until it runs through clear, and lastly, pass enough sherry wine through the filter to make one thousand cubic centimeters.

Pharmaceutical Uses — This preparation is employed as a flavoring substance and excipient in some of the official preparations.

Vinum Hydrastis Compositum - Compound Wine of Golden Seal.

Preparation — Take of golden-seal root, tulip-tree bark, bitter root, each, in fine powder, 1 drachm; prickly ash berries, sassafras bark, capsicum, each, in fine powder, 1/2 drachm; sherry wine, 3 pints, or a sufficient quantity. Form into a medicated wine by maceration or percolation, and make 3 pints of the preparation.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — this is useful in dyspepsia, and in all cases where tonics are required, with gentle stimulation. The dose varies from 1/2 to 1 or 2 fluid ounces, every 3 or 4 hours.

Vinum Pruni Virginianae - Wine of Wild Cherry

Preparation.—"Wild cherry, in No. 40 powder, two hundred and fifty grammes; sugar, one hundred and sixty-five grammes; water, two hundred cubic centimeters; alcohol, seventy- five cubic centimeters; purified talcum, fifteen grammes; angelica wine, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters. Dissolve the sugar in the water. Moisten the wild cherry with a sufficient quantity of this solution, and allow it to macerate during 1 hour. Then transfer it to a percolator, pour upon it the remainder of the solution, and afterward enough angelica wine, until nine hundred cubic centimeters of percolate are obtained. Add to this the alcohol, mix the purified talcum intimately with the liquid, then filter, returning the first portions of the filtrate until it runs through clear, and finally pass enough angelica wine through the filter to make the product measure one thousand cubic centimeters. Each fluid drachm represents 15 grains of wild cherry".

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—(See Prunus). A good tonic and sedative. Dose, 1 to 4 fluid drachms.

Vinum Phytolaccae Compositum. - Compound Wine of Poke

Preparation.—Take of inspissated juice of poke berries and white turpentine, each, 4 ounces; sherry or native wine, 2 gallons. Macerate for 14 days, with occasional agitation, and filter.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage. — This is an excellent preparation for chronic rheumatism, chronic gonorrhea, syphilitic pains, etc. The dose is from 1/2 to 1 fluid ounce, 2 or 3 times a day.

Vinum Sambuci - Wine of Elder.

Preparation — Take of elder bark, parsley root, each, in coarse powder, 1 ounce; sherry wine, 1 pint, or a sufficient quantity. Form into a medicated wine by maceration or percolation, and make one pint of the preparation.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — Wine of elder is useful in dropsical diseases, especially ascites, and dropsy supervening upon scarlatina or other exanthematous diseases. Dose, 2 fluid ounces, 3 or 4 times a day.

Vinum Symphyti Compositum - Compound Wine of Comfrey.

Preparation — Take of comfrey root, Solomon's-seal root, helonias root, each, in coarse powder, 1 ounce; chamomile flowers, calumba root, gentian root, cardamom seeds, sassafras bark, each, in coarse powder, 1/2 ounce; sherry wine, 4 pints; boiling water, a sufficient quantity. Place the herbs in a vessel, cover with boiling water, and let the compound macerate for 24 hours, keeping it closely covered; then add the sherry wine. Macerate for 14 days; express and filter. Malaga wine, which is sometimes used in this preparation, is inferior to sherry wine, and more liable to decomposition. The addition of sugar to this wine of comfrey is apt to disagree with many persons, and thus destroy its efficiency. This preparation is sometimes called Restorative Wine Bitters, but is much superior to the article formerly known by this name.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — This is a most valuable tonic in all diseases peculiar to females, especially leucorrhoea, amenorrhoea, weakness of the back, etc. The dose is from 1/2 to 2 fluid ounces, 3 or 4 times a day.

Some Suggested Vinegar remedies:

1 tsp. cider vinegar with one tsp. honey three times daily helps with arthritis. It dissolves the crystal deposits of uric acid that form between joints (and also in muscles as with muscular rheumatism).

Vinegar in drinking water is effective in eliminating the low-grade fevers that are present in Chronic Fatigue sufferers. It also helps eliminate thrush in the mouth. Mix four tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to a gallon of drinking water. Drink up to one gallon each day.

For toe nail fungus, use one part vinegar to one part warm water and soak your feet.

Use 2 cups of cider vinegar in the tub to soak sore muscles and add potassium to muscles.

Mix two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with one cup of honey and store this mixture in an air-tight container. Anytime you have trouble drifting off, take two teaspoons of this mixture and you'll drift off in less than a half hour. And you won't be groggy in the morning like over-the-counter sleep aids.

A teaspoon of vinegar relieves hiccups more effectively than anything else, including lemon juice or sugar.

A half cup of vinegar, two tablespoons of hydrogen peroxide, and one teaspoon of sea salt mixed together relieves swelling and brings a boil to a head.

Soothe a bee or jellyfish sting:

Douse with vinegar. It will soothe irritation and relieve itching.

Relieve sunburn:

Lightly rub white distilled or cider vinegar on skin. Reapply as needed.

Relieve dry and itchy skin:

Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar to your bath water.

Fight dandruff:

After shampooing, rinse with a solution of ½ cup vinegar and 2 cups of warm water.

Soothe a sore throat:

Put a teaspoon of vinegar in a glass of water. Gargle, and then swallow. For another great gargle: 1 cup hot water, 2 tablespoons honey, 1 teaspoon vinegar, gargle then drink.

Treat sinus infections and chest colds:

Add 1/4 cup or more vinegar to the vaporizer. (Be sure to check vaporizer instructions for additional water measurement.)

Acetum Lobellae (Vinegar of Lobelia). Lobelia seed powder, 4 oz. Diluted acetic acid, 2 pints. Macerate in a close glass vessel for seven days, then express the liquor, filter, and add to the filtered product alcohol, or concentrated acetic acid, 1 fluid ounce. The whole should measure 2 pints. This medicated vinegar may also be prepared by percolation.

It is an emetic, nauseant, and expectorant, and a valuable relaxant in spasmodic affections. It is a good application in such skin diseases as salt-rheum, erysipelas, poisoning by rhus, etc. As an expectorant, 5 to 30 drop every half-hour in elm or flaxseed infusion. One part of Vinegar of Lobelia to 1 part of syrup forms a pleasant preparation for children.

A compress made with cider vinegar helps ease the pain and swelling that can be caused by varicose veins. Soak a towel in cider vinegar and then wrap it around the affected areas. Cover with a dry towel, elevate your legs and rest for 30 minutes. If you have sensitive skin, dilute the vinegar with warm water. You can also massage the area with cider vinegar to improve blood flow and tighten the tissue. The massage can be done daily.

Quiz:

1. Vinegar in drinking water is effective in eliminating ______.

2. Vinum Phytolaccae Compositum is an excellent preparation for ______rheumatism, among other uses.

3. Wines owe their solvent properties largely to the ______which they contain.

4. Hypocrites, known as the father of ______.

5. Those with ______should avoid using vinegar as a medicinal property.

6. Stomach ulcers are caused by bacteria and many people with stomach ulcers are ______.

7. Acetum Lobellae is a valuable relaxant in ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Twenty - Poisonous Herbs

While all herbs can be considered poisonous to one degree or another, there are some that tend to stand out as being especially toxic. The intent of this lesson is to cover some of these herbs. Should you decide to use these herbs in any fashion, please use extreme caution and do your research! This lesson is included in order to highlight the responsibility that you have as an herbalist.

Hemlock is a member of the great order Umbelliferae, the same family of plants to which the parsley, fennel, parsnip and carrot belong. The name Hemlock is derived from the Anglo-Saxon words hem (border, shore) and leác (leek or plant). The juice of hemlock was frequently administered to criminals, and this was the fatal poison which Socrates was condemned to drink. In ancient Greece, the philosopher Socrates died in 399 BC of drinking a potent solution of poison Hemlock, which was favored by his countrymen as a "humane" method of execution. By far the most important constituent of hemlock leaves is the alkaloid Coniine, of which they may contain, when collected at the proper time, as much as 2.77 per cent the average being 1.65 per cent. When pure, Coniine is a volatile, colorless, oily liquid, strongly alkaline, with poisonous properties and having a bitter taste and a disagreeable, penetrating, mouse-like odor. There are also present the alkaloids, Methyl-coniine, Conhydrine, Pseudoconhydrine, Ethyl piperidine, mucilage, a fixed oil and 12 per cent of ash. Hemlock fruits have essentially the same active constituents, but yield a greater portion of Coniine than the leaves. The drug has to be administered with care, as narcotic poisoning may result from internal use, and overdoses produce paralysis. In poisonous doses it produces complete paralysis with loss of speech; the respiratory function is at first depressed and ultimately ceases altogether and death results from asphyxia. In the case of poisoning by Hemlock, the antidotes are tannic acid, stimulants and coffee, emetics of zinc, or mustard and castor oil, and, if necessary, artificial respiration. The affects of Hemlock are Nervousness, trembling, depression, coma, death, birth defects. Conium is sedative and antispasmodic, and has been recommended as an antidote to Strychnine poisoning,

Mandrake: (Podophyllum peltatum) American Mandrake, May apple, Devil’s Apple

The whole plant, apart from the ripe fruit, is highly poisonous in large doses. American Mandrake herb produces nausea and vomiting, and even inflammation of the stomach and intestines, which has been known to prove fatal. In moderate doses, it is a drastic purgative with some cholagogue action.

Not a medicinal herb to be used during pregnancy may cause birth defects.

The root and plant contain valuable constituents Quercetin, Kaempferol, Podophyllin, Isorhamnetin, Gallic-acid, Berberine, Alpha-peltatin, that are being studied for their healing, anticancer and other properties. The root is used as a medicinal herb, it is antibilious, cathartic, cytostatic, hydrogogue and purgative, it should only be used by professional Herbalists. The resin, which is obtained from the root, is used in the treatment of warts.

Neither podophyllum nor any other may apple product should ever be used by women who are pregnant or who may be pregnant. Documented cases of birth defects and fetal deaths have been associated with podophyllum used during pregnancy.

Because podophyllum is believed to stimulate the production of bile in the gallbladder, individuals with gallbladder disease or gallstones should not use it. If topically applied podophyllum is absorbed through the skin, it may cause irritation of the stomach and intestines. Therefore, individuals with conditions such as Crohn's disease or irritable bowel syndrome should avoid using it.

It is very powerful and very toxic, and should be used with extreme caution, as well as in extremely small dosages.

When applying to warts, use only on the tissue needed or it can damage surrounding tissue. Mandrake Root was used by Native Americans as a laxative and to remove intestinal parasites. The root was also used as a tonic for liver, lung, and stomach ailments. A decoction was made by boiling the roots in water and was used to treat rheumatism.

Mistletoe (Phoradendron spp), Golden Bough

Toxic Principle: toxalbumin, pharatoxin viscumin

Clinical signs: gastrointestinal disorders, cardiovascular collapse, dyspnea, bradycardia, erratic behavior, (hallucinogenic in humans).

Parts Used: Leaves

Remedies For: Emetic, nervine

Stimulant to soothe muscle, producing a rise in blood pressure and increases the contraction of the intestine and uterus. This herb had been recommended as an oxytocic in postpartum hemorrhage and menorrhagia and as a circulatory and uterine stimulant. The plant may induce menstruation. It had been shown effective in treating tumors in experimental animals.

It is recommended that, due to the toxicity of the plant, internal consumption of this herb be avoided. Ingesting a large number of the berries or tea made from the berries has led to poisoning and death in humans.

American mistletoe contains two amines, beta-phenylethylamine and tyramine as well as a lectin, phoratoxin. These chemicals are probably responsible for toxic reactions after ingestion.

General symptoms of poisoning are gastroenteritis, cardiac arrest and death.

Ingesting a few berries causes abdominal pain and diarrhea. Tea made from the berries caused death about 10 hours after symptoms of acute gastroenteritis, followed by cardiovascular collapse. Plant material has slowed the heartbeat in a way similar to digitalis.

Traditionally a cold water extract (cold infusion) is made by soaking 2–4 teaspoons (10–20 grams) of chopped mistletoe in two cups (500 ml) of water overnight. This is taken first thing in the morning and can be sweetened with honey. Another batch is left to steep during the day and drunk at bedtime. Alternately a hot tea can be made by infusing 1 teaspoon (5 grams) of leaves in a cup (250 ml) of just-boiled water for 5–10 minutes. Two cups (500 ml) are consumed per day. A tincture, approximately 1/8 teaspoon (1/2 ml) three times per day, can also be used.

If six to twenty berries or four to five leaves are eaten, then activated charcoal or ipecac can be used at home to induce vomiting. Emergency room care is only indicated if more than 20 berries or five leaves are ingested or if symptoms develop at lower levels of exposure. Possible symptoms of overdose are nausea, vomiting, low blood pressure, or dizziness.

Several constituents have been shown to contribute to the medicinal action of mistletoe. Most notable are mistletoe lectins (also called viscotoxins), choline derivatives, alkaloids, polypeptides, and polysaccharides.

Oleander (Nerium oleander Apocynaceae) (Dogbane family)

Ingestion of even small amounts can kill. The entire plant is toxic.

Signs of poisoning are Gastrointestinal irritation, cardiac abnormalities, death (may be sudden).

Oleander contains the toxins oleandrin and nerioside, which very similar to the toxins in foxglove (Digitalis). It also contains cardiac glycosides and oleandroside. There are reports that long-term use of oleander may have positive effects in patients with leiomyosarcoma, Ewing's sarcoma, prostate or breast cancer. More research is needed before a recommendation can be made.

The term "oleander" refers to two plants, Nerium oleander (common oleander) and Thevetia peruviana (yellow oleander).

People with allergy/hypersensitivity to oleander or other cardiac glycosides such as digoxin or digitoxin may have reactions to oleander. Skin contact with sap from oleander leaves may cause rash/dermatitis.

Common oleander has been used as rat poison, insecticide and fish poison, and is toxic to mammals including humans. Animals (sheep) have died after eating as little as 2-3 leaves of Nerium oleander (common oleander). Children may die after eating a single leaf of common oleander. Eating the leaves, flowers or bark of common oleander may cause nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps and pain, fatigue, drowsiness, unsteadiness, bloody diarrhea, abnormal heart rhythms, seizures, liver or kidney damage, or unconsciousness. Death may occur within one day.

Oleander is toxic and should be avoided by pregnant or breastfeeding women.

Digoxin interacts with many drugs, including acarbose, acetazolamide, activated charcoal, amiodarone, atorvastatin, azithromycin, azosemide, bepridil, beta-adrenergic blockers, bumetanide, canrenoate, cascara sagrada, cholestyramine, clarithromycin, cyclophosphamide, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, ethacrynic acid, furosemide, hydroxychloroquine, indomethacin, itraconazole, kaolin, lornoxicam, metoclopramide, mibefradil, nefazodone, nifedipine, nilvadipine, nisoldipine, nitrendipine, paromomycin, penicillamine, piretanide, propafenone, propantheline, quinidine, quinine, spironolactone, succinylcholine, thiazide diuretics, torsemide, valspodar, verapamil, and vincristine.

Low potassium levels in the blood may increase the dangerous side effects of oleander. Therefore, oleander should be used cautiously with drugs that may lower potassium levels, such as laxatives or some diuretics (drugs that increase urine flow).

Common oleander and yellow oleander contain cardiac glycoside heart-active substances. Herbs or supplements that may cause increased heart effects/damage if taken with oleander include: adonis, balloon cotton, black hellebore root/melampode, black Indian hemp, bushman's poison, cactus grandifloris, convallaria, eyebright, figwort, foxglove/digitalis, frangipani, hedge mustard, hemp root/Canadian hemp root, king's crown, lily-of-the-valley, motherwort, pheasant's eye plant, plantain leaf, pleurisy root, psyllium husks, redheaded cotton-bush, rhubarb root, rubber vine, sea-mango, senna fruit, squill, strophanthus, uzara, wallflower, winter sweet, and yellow dock root. Notably, bufalin/Chan Suis is a Chinese herbal formula that has been reported as toxic or fatal when taken with cardiac glycosides.

Toxic effects of oleander on the heart may be increased if used with calcium supplements or herbs that lower potassium levels, such as licorice. Potassium levels theoretically may be reduced by herbs and supplements with laxative properties such as senna or psyllium, or herbs and supplements with diuretic properties (increasing urine flow) such as artichoke, celery, corn silk, couch grass, dandelion, elder flower, horsetail, juniper berry, kava, shepherd's purse, uva ursi, yarrow. Laxative herbs include alder buckthorn, aloe dried leaf sap, black root, blue flag rhizome, butternut bark, dong quai, European buckthorn, eyebright, cascara bark, castor oil, chaste berry, colocynth fruit pulp, dandelion, gamboges bark, horsetail, jalap root, manna bark, plantain leaf, podophyllum root, psyllium, rhubarb, senna, wild cucumber fruit, and yellow dock root.

Belladonna: (Atropa belladonna) Devil's Cherries, Naughty Man's Cherries, Black Cherry, Devil's Herb.

Belladonna is supposed to have been the plant that poisoned the troops of Marcus Antonius during the Parthian wars. The generic name of the plant, Atropa, is derived from the Greek Atropos, one of the Fates who held the shears to cut the thread of human life, a reference to its deadly, poisonous nature. The name belladonna originates from the historic use by women (Bella Donna is Italian for beautiful lady) to dilate their pupils. The roots, leaves and tops are used. The fresh plant, when crushed, exhibits a disagreeable odor, almost disappearing on drying, and the leaves have a bitter taste, when both fresh and dry. The medicinal properties of Belladonna depend on the presence of Hyoscyamine and Atropine. Small doses stimulate the nervous system. The root is the basis of the principal preparations of Belladonna. Belladonna is used as a narcotic, sedative, anodyne, antispasmotic, myriatic.

Belladonna is one of the most toxic plants found in the Western hemisphere. Children have been poisoned by eating as few as three berries. Ingestion of a leaf of the Belladonna can be fatal to an adult. The root of the plant is generally the most toxic part, though this can vary from one specimen to another.

All parts of the plant contain tropane alkaloids. The active constituents of belladonna are Atropine, d,l-hyoscyamine, scopolamine, and apoatropine, which is contained only in the roots. The total alkaloids present in dry material are: 0.4% leaves, 0.5% roots, and 0.8% seeds.

Symptoms of belladonna poisoning are dilated pupils, tachycardia, hallucinations, blurred vision, loss of balance, a feeling of flight, staggering, a sense of suffocation, paleness followed by a red rash, flushing, extremely dry throat, constipation, urinary retention, and confusion. The skin can completely dry out and slough off. Fatal cases have a rapid pulse that turns feeble. The antidote is physostigmine or pilocarpine.

When consumed in the form of either a tea or simply raw, it can produce vivid hallucinations. The roots which are sometimes used for ceremonial/medicinal purposes, are usually harvested in the fall of the plants fourth year and quickly dried in the sun.

Tinctura Belladonnae Foliorum - Tincture of Belladonna Leaves.

Preparation.—"Belladonna leaves, in No. 60 powder, one hundred and fifty grammes; diluted alcohol, a sufficient quantity to make one thousand cubic centimeters. Moisten the powder with two hundred cubic centimeters of diluted alcohol, and macerate for 24 hours; then pack it firmly in a cylindrical percolator, and gradually pour diluted alcohol upon it, until one thousand cubic centimeters of tincture are obtained.

Belladonna was also an important ingredient in Witches brew during the middle ages, often being equated with aggressive female sexuality. A flying ointment salve was made from this plant along with others, and rubbed on the bodies of women to experience erotic sensations and hallucinations. It was thought that in this state the witches would fly to the Sabbat and engage in orgies with demons. It is believed that the legend of witches riding brooms arose from the time when women would rub the flying ointments on their genitals or in their vaginas with a broom handle and then masturbate. It was thought that the ingestion of these ointments would allow transvection (witches flight) to far off places.

Castor Bean (Ricinus communis)

The seeds from the castor bean plant, Ricinus communis, are poisonous to people, animals and insects. Just one milligram of ricin can kill an adult. The symptoms are abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea which is sometimes bloody. Within several days there is severe dehydration, a decrease in urine, and a decrease in blood pressure. If death has not occurred in 3-5 days, the victim usually recovers. It is said that just one seed can kill a child. Although it is a very potent poison, ricin has been shown to possess antitumor qualities and has been used in cancer research and chemotherapy. Castor oil on the other hand was one of the old-fashioned remedies for everything from constipation to heartburn. It is indeed a very effective cathartic or purgative (laxative) and is still used to this day.

Daphne (Daphne mezereum)

The primary poisons in Daphne are mezereinic acid and anhydride. In large doses, mezereon is an irritant poison, causing redness and vesication of the skin when left in contact with it, and causing when swallowed, dryness and burning of the throat, vomiting, hyper catharsis, and frequently renal irritation. The berries have proved fatal to children who have eaten them.

In small doses it acts as a stimulant, alterative, diuretic, diaphoretic, in warm decoction, and cathartic. It acts favorably in syphilis, mercurio-syphilis, scrofula, chronic rheumatism, and some forms of obstinate disease of the skin. A dose of the decoction is from 1 to 3 fluid ounces; of the powder, 10 grains. Homoeopathists regard it highly in the treatment of the periosteal pains and nodes following syphilitic infection, and in rheumatic, and even in syphilitic periostitis.

Externally, it is used occasionally; sometimes employed by practitioners to produce rubefaction and vesication, and in the form of ointment as an application to blistered surfaces, indolent ulcers, and issues, in order to excite suppuration. When vesication is desired, the bark is soaked in hot vinegar and water to soften it, and then applied to the part by a compress and bandage. The application is to be renewed night and morning, until vesication is produced.

Jimson Weed (Datura stramonium)

Stramonium is a well-known poisonous weed, growing in all parts of the United States. In large doses, stramonium is an energetic, narcotic poison, producing dryness of the throat, thirst, nausea, giddiness, nervous agitation, dilatation of the pupil, obscurity of vision, headache, disturbance of the cerebral functions, perspiration, occasional relaxation of the bowels, and, in some cases diuresis. When about to prove fatal, maniacal delirium, loss of voice and dryness of throat are usually present. The physiological action of stramonium is practically the same as that of belladonna, though it is thought to influence the sympathetic more strongly, to occasion irregular heart-action, and induce greater delirium. Daturine, though chemically similar to atropine, produces a more profound effect, both as a mydriatic and in other ways, and is more liable to produce depression, heart failure, and unconsciousness.

Indications of poisoning include delirium, furious, enraged, and destructive; continuous talking; restless, cannot rest in any position, seems to be fearful; pain, especially when superficial and localized; spasm, with pain; cerebral irritation; bloating and redness of face; purely spasmodic asthma and convulsive cough.

In cases of poisoning by stramonium and its alkaloid, the best mode of obtaining relief is to evacuate the stomach by emetics or the stomach-pump, after which vinegar and water may be used, with mucilaginous drinks, at a later period, and strong coffee, tea, and other stimulating drinks, if there is much prostration.

In medicinal doses, stramonium acts as an anodyne antispasmodic, without causing constipation, and will prove serviceable in cases where opium can not be given. It does not readily produce sleep, but if sleep follows, it is generally due to the alleviation of pain or nervous irritability produced by the drug.

Externally, a poultice of the fresh leaves, bruised, or the dried leaves in hot water, will be found an excellent application over the bowels, in severe forms of gastritis, enteritis, peritonitis, acute rheumatism, painful bladder affections and pleurisy.

Wild cherries (Prunus serotina)

The seeds contain cyanogenic glycoside and amygdalin a compound that releases cyanide when eaten. Common symptoms of poisoning are gasping, weakness, excitement, pupil dilation, spasms, convulsions, coma and respiratory failure. The wilted leaves and twigs are also poisonous.

Never use when pregnant or breast feeding.

Rhubarb (Rheum Officinale)

Earliest records on rhubarb date back to 2700 BCE in China where Rhubarb was cultivated for medicinal purposes (its purgative qualities). The technical name of the genus (Rheum) is said to be derived from Rha, the ancient name of the Volga, on whose banks the plants grow. There were those who called it Rha Ponticum, and others Rheum or Rha-barbarum. Others derive the name from the Greek rheo "to flow", in allusion to the purgative properties of the root.

Large amounts of raw or cooked leaves can cause convulsions, coma, followed rapidly by death.

It can also cause weakness, burning in the mouth, breathing difficulty, burning in the throat, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, red colored urine and kidney stones. Medicinally, rhubarb is used as a laxative, antiphlogistic, and homeostatic in the treatment of constipation, diarrhea, jaundice, gastro-intestinal hemorrhage, menstrual disorders, conjunctivitis, traumatic injuries, superficial suppurative sores and ulcers. It is also applied externally for thermal burns.

Yew (Taxus baccata)

Ornamental yew shrubs are highly toxic to humans and animals. All parts of the tree, except for the flesh of the arils are very poisonous.

Taxine is found in various kinds of the Yew plant. This highly poisonous alkaloid is in most parts of the Yew plant, but the highest amount is in the seeds. The needles contain the greatest concentration of taxin in the winter (2 percent) and the least concentration in the summer (0.5 percent). The seeds contain approximately 1 percent. The decoction from just 50 - 100 gm of needles or a mere 30 berries is fatal for an adult. The action of the poison is extremely rapid because taxin is quickly absorbed in the digestive system. It is a very poisonous cardiovascular toxic substance. Horses are the most susceptible of all animals and may die within several minutes of feeding on the young shoots. Symptoms include nausea and vomiting, increased salivation, stomachache, diarrhea, sleepiness, shortage of breath, trembling, spasms, malfunction of the cardiovascular system which leads to collapse and death. Yew’s toxins do not have any application in medicine because of the great danger of poisoning.

No specific antidote is recognized for taxine poisoning, and therefore normal first aid must be very prompt. Stomach washing by qualified medical personal with weak tannic acid solution followed by treatment with activated charcoal suspension must follow rapidly, and where indicated appropriate drug therapy to stimulate the heart.

Monkshood (Aconitum napellus)

Aconite was said to be the invention of Hecate from the foam of Cerberus, and it was a species of Aconite that entered into the poison which the old men of the island of Ceos were condemned to drink when they became infirm and no longer of use to the State. Aconite is also supposed to have been the poison that formed the cup which Medea prepared for Theseus. Gerard tells us that its power was

"So forcible that the herb only thrown before the scorpion or any other venomous beast, causeth them to be without force or strength to hurt, insomuch that they cannot moove or stirre untill the herbe be taken away."

The common monkshood is one of the most poisonous plants of European flora. Since ancient times, people have known that it is poisonous and have used it as a weapon by coating their spears and arrowheads with its strong poison. The plant was used for killing panthers, wolves and other such carnivores. Aconitine is one of the strongest plant poisons. At first, it acts as a stimulant but, after that, it paralyzes the nervous system. Doses of 2-5 mg can kill an adult. The symptoms of poisoning are oral paresthesias, abundant salivation, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. The skin becomes cool, the limbs become insensitive and the pulse accelerates. Death results from respiratory failure and cardiac arrest. Children may get poisoned if they hold tubers in their hands for a long time. A stomach tube or emetic should be used at once, 20 minims of Tincture of Digitalis given if available, stimulants should be given and if not retained diluted brandy injected per rectum, artificial respiration and friction, patient to be kept lying down.

If it is carefully dosed, aconitine is applied externally as a painkiller in neuralgia in cases of rheumatism, headache, gout, migraine and colds accompanied with high body temperature. Several medicines are produced from tubers of low content of alkaloids. Aconite root contains from 0.3 to 1 per cent alkaloidal matter, consisting of Aconitine - crystalline, acrid and highly toxic - with the alkaloids Benzaconine (Picraconitine) and Aconine.

Due to its strong toxicity, the drug is very rarely used internally. Because of the toxicity, you should wash your hands after using.

Quiz:

1. In moderate doses, Mandrake is a drastic ______.

2. Oleander contains the toxins ______and ______.

3. Socrates died in 399 BC after drinking a potent solution of ______.

4. This herb had been recommended as an oxytocic in postpartum hemorrhage and menorrhagia and as a circulatory and uterine stimulant, it is ______.

5. The needles of the Yew contain the greatest concentration of ______in the winter.

6. Amygdalin is a compound that releases ______when eaten.

7. The primary poisons in Daphne are ______and ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Twenty One - Shamanic Herbs

Greetings student, I personally have been a student of shamanism since 1999. This lesson will not teach you how to be a shaman. However I will cover some of the herbs and their uses as they are employed in the practice of shamanism. As always, common sense is advised when using these or any other herbs. Knowledge is power so please use it wisely. None of the information provided here is endorsed by the author of this course. Such information is offered for educational purposes only! Many of these herbs are mind altering, this is not an endorsement of drug use, but rather the tools used by a specific spiritual tradition. Please respect this for what it is. For the most part I will be very vague as to the exact use and tradition behind each herb listed here. This is done so as to focus on the basics of the herb as they relate to a spiritual path.

"The purpose of these sacraments is to purify, and to open the road. When it opens, it's as clear as the blue sky, and the stars at night are as bright as suns."

Aurelia Aurora Catarino (Mazatec shaman)

Salvia divinorum:

Also known as the ―diviner’s sage,‖ Salvia divinorum is a psychoactive plant from the mint family. It has been used for hundreds of years by Mazatec shamans in Mexico. Traditionally, native people either drink a mixture of fresh leaves and water or they chew fresh leaves. The Latin name Salvia divinorum literally translates to "Sage of the seers".

Ayahuasca (Banisteriopsis caapi vine & Psychotria viridis leaves

Also known as yagé or ―the vine of the soul,‖ is a tea brewed from the Banisteriopsis caapi vine, native to the Amazon region. Combining ayahuasca with the wrong foods or drugs could produce adverse side effects or even be fatal.

Red canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea)

This perennial is a native of Canada, but occurs in northern Europe and the northern half of the US. In the wild, it is usually found where there is purple loosestrife. It can grow over 6 feet tall and tends to form clumps. It is very fond of wetlands.

It has high concentrations of DMT, beta-carbolines, 5-MEO-demethyltryptamine, and trace amounts of bufotenine.

Bugleweed (Lycopus virginicus)

Bugleweed is in flower from July to September. It can be dried for infusions or used fresh for coughs, consumption and bronchial problems. It contains a bitter principle and lycopin. It is a sedative and a narcotic. The whole herb is used. It is slightly aromatic, with a mint- like odor and is used, fresh, when in flower. The infusion is made from 1 oz. of the dried herb to 1 pint of boiling water is taken in wineglassful doses

Sweet Flag (Acorus calamus)

Sweet flag is a grass-like, rhizome forming, perennial that can grow to 2 meters high, resembling an iris. This species inhabits perpetually wet areas like the edges of streams and around ponds and lakes, in ditches and seeps. It often shares habitat with the common cat- tail. Calamus is associated with the muskrat in many native American cultures as the rodent consumes copious quantities of the root. The constituents of Calamus are monoterpene hydrocarbons, sequestrine ketones, (trans- or Alpha) Asarone (2,4,5-trimethoxy-1-propenylbenzene), and Beta-asarone (cis- isomer) contained in the roots essential oils. The asarones are MDA type compounds that are the naturally occurring precursors of TMA-2. The psychoactive constituents break down over a period of time.

The Cree Indians of Northern Alberta use Calamus for a number of medicinal reasons including: as an analgesic for the relief of toothache or headache, for oral hygiene to cleanse and disinfect the teeth, the fight the effects of exhaustion or fatigue, and to help cure/prevent a hangover. Other Native tribes used it to treat a cough, made a decoction as a carminative and as an infusion for cholic. The Dakotas use Calamus to treat diabetes, and there are several reported cases where of the root had cured people who had been given up by Western medicine. When Calamus root was chewed regularly by the Indians, they would be miraculously cured of this disease within a matter of months. The Sioux used the whole plant, making aromatic garlands from the leaves and using the root as a tea for bowel pains, or rubbed the chewed root on the skin for a general illness cure. During the Middle Ages, Calamus was an mixture in several of the ancient, psychoactive, "witches flying ointments", often being mixed with solanacious herbs.

Hawaiian Baby Wood rose (Argyreia nervosa)

Hawaiian Baby Wood rose is a perennial climbing vine with large heart-shaped leaves and white trumpet-shaped flowers. Its large furry seeds grow in seed pods and contain the psychedelic LSA (d-lysergic acid amide). The seeds of this plant are used and are approximately 10 times more potent then Morning Glory seeds. Hawaiian Baby Wood rose is used in Ayurveda medicine to increase intelligence, memory and life span.

Vervain (Verbena officinalis)

The uses of vervain are as a tonic, mild bitter and as a nervine. It stimulates bile secretion and is a mild sedative. Vervain protects against the formation of kidney stones. It is a tonic for the digestive system. Its bitter principle stimulates digestion. Vervain is also known to aid absorption. The Druids used this wildflower in their rites of purification. "The Chair of Taliesin" describes initiation with a drink containing vervain. It is one of the three sacred herbs used in their "lustral water" which is used in ritual cleansings. The Romans used it as a ceremonial herb, and fashioned it into torches, often placed on their altars. It was also used in medieval times as a tranquilizer. It is an excellent tranquilizer.

Fly Agaric (Amanita muscaria)

Since mediaeval times it has been used as an insecticide, from whence it derives its name. Fly Agaric is one of the oldest known hallucinates known to mankind. The entheogenic constituents of A. muscaria are ibotenic acid (alpha-amino3-hydroxy-5- isoxazole acetic acid), muscamol (3hydroxy-5-aminomethy1 isoxazole), and possibly muscazone(Ott). Muscamol appears to be the primary intoxicant. After ingestion, a small amount of ibotenic acid decarboxylates into muscamol, which produces the intoxication. Fly agaric mushrooms were used by medicine men or "shamans" of north East Asia and Siberia. If you cultivate these mushrooms, be very sure of your decision. Eating some varieties especially Amanita Phalloides and Amanita Virosa could be fatal.

Woodruff (Galium odorata)

Woodruff has tranquilizing effects and an infusion can be made to produce a good night sleep. It is also useful in a tea for calming someone down. Use two teaspoons of dried herb to a half pint of boiling water. It is a German custom to steep fresh sprigs of woodruff in Rhine wine (Maibowle) and was drunk at Beltain. The dried herb may be kept among linen, like lavender, to preserve it from insects. The plant contains a crystalline chemical principle called Coumarin, citric, malic and rubichloric acids, together with some tannic acid.

Motherwort (Leonurus cardiaca)

Motherwort is a sedative by nature but it is also well known as a heart tonic and relaxant. The herb contains the alkaloid leonurine, which is a mild vasodilator and has a very relaxing effect on smooth muscles. For this reason, it has long been used as a cardiac tonic, nervine, and an emmenagogue. It also contains bitter iridoid glycosides, diterpinoids, flavonoids (including rutin and quercetin), tannins, volatile oils, and vitamin A. The fresh or dried leaves are used, and the recommended dosage is the standard infusion of one ounce herb to one pint boiling water.

Juniper - Juniperus communis

Juniper was used by the ancient Egyptians as an ingredient for their embalming fluid as well as for medicinal purposes. It is one of the main flavorings for gin. Juniper is often used as an herb of purification and for banishing negative energies. It is a strong diuretic, antiseptic and stimulates digestion. It is said to act as a mild hallucinogen when smoked. It contains alpha pinene, cadinene, terpenene, sabinal, tannins, resin, flavone and volatile and essential oils.

Hops - (Humulus var.s)

The first documented instance of hop cultivation was in 736 CE, in the Hallertau region of present-day Germany, though some evidence suggests that hops were used as much as 10,000 years ago in ancient China. Hop cultivation in the United States began in 1629 CE. Hops had been outlawed in England under Henry VI because they were considered to adulterate ale, which was flavored traditionally with heath, ivy, marjoram, wormwood, and yarrow. The Delaware Indians used of hops as a sedative, drinking hop tea several times a day to alleviate nervousness. Cherokee, Mohegan, and Fox also used the plant as a sedative.

Lupulin, which consists of the glandular powder present on the seeds and surface of the scales, may be separated by shaking the strobiles. The drug occurs in a granular, brownish- yellow powder, with the strong odor and bitter aromatic taste characteristic of Hops. The drug Lupulin is an aromatic bitter and is reputed to be mildly sedative, inducing sleep without causing headache. Hops have tonic, nervine, diuretic and anodyne properties. Their volatile oil produces sedative and soporific effects, and the Lupamaric acid or bitter principle is stomachic and tonic. Hops improve the appetite and help to promote sleep. Hops is one of two plants that makes up the genus "cannabinaceae" with the other being cannabis. The active ingredients of hops are lupulin, humulene, lupulinic acid, essentail oils and tannins.

Nutmeg: (Myristica fragrans)

Nutmeg contains some methylenedioxy-substituted compounds, including myristicin (3- methoxy,4,5-methylendioxy-allylbenzene, and a non-amine precursor of 3-methoxy-4,5- methylenedioxyamphetamine), elemicin, and safrole (specifically 3,4-methylene- dioxyallylbenzene, and a non-amine precursor of 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine). It also contains elemycin, eugenol, and methyleugenol. Although nutmeg essential has a psychotropic effect on the body and stimulates the mind, it is an all-over tonic, especially so for the digestion and for helping with diarrhea, vomiting and nausea.

Damiana: (Turnera diffusa/Turnera aphrodisiaca)

Damiana is known as "Turneria aphrodisiaca" and is native in Mexico and the southwestern United States and Central America. The leaves and flowers of this herb have been used since ancient times as a nerve tonifier. It stimulates muscular contractions of the intestinal tract and delivery of oxygen to the genital area. It is used as an energy tonic and to remedy sexual and hormonal problems. It is known as a "sexuality tonic" for women. Damiana is used as an aphrodisiac and as a tonic for the reproductive organs. It produces a mild marijuana like high when smoked through a water pipe.

You can make the tea by steeping 1 teaspoon of dried leaves in a cup of boiling water. Then steep for five to ten minutes and then strain and sip. Hot or cold the aphrodisiac qualities are the same. For the best sexual response, it is recommended that you drink the tea approximately thirty minutes before sexual activity.

Ceremonial Smoke

Rubbed Mullein leaf as a base Fermented Scotch Broom Flowers Desert Skullcap, just a small amount Skullcap Leaf Elephant's Head Leaf Parrot's Beak Leaf Osha Root, powdered for flavor

Not an everyday smoke, for vision quests and spiritual pursuits. Use consciously.

Mao Inhibitor Recipe Simplified

3 grams of Syrian Rue seeds = 1 serving. Lemon juice = Acetic Acid

Simple Extraction Method:

Grind whatever amount of Syrian Rue you want to as fine a powder as possible, according to the formula above. Place the powder into a Crock Pot with 1 part lemon juice to 2 parts distilled water. Simmer for 12 hours on "High" with the cover on. Remove from heat and strain the liquid through a paper coffee filter, saving both the liquid and the mush. Place the mush into the Crock Pot again with fresh 1 part lemon juice to 2 parts distilled water. Simmer for 12 hours on "High" with the cover on. Remove from heat and strain the liquid through a paper coffee filter, saving the liquid and discarding the mush. Combine both liquids and evaporate in the Crock Pot down to a dry residue. The residue will be a sticky, reddish-brown color. Separate into equal parts according to the initial amount, and place into Gel Caps. This is a powerful MAO inhibitor, and should be treated VERY carefully!

Quiz:

1. Vervain protects against the formation of ______.

2. Motherwort is a ______by nature.

3. Damiana is used as a ______.

4. Calamus is associated with the ______in many Native American cultures.

5. Salvia divinorum is also known as the ______.

6. Bugleweed is also a ______and a ______.

7. Fly Agaric is one of the oldest known ______known to mankind.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Twenty Two - Abortcient Herbs

Greetings student, my views on abortion are personal and shall remain as such. The inclusion of this lesson is not an endorsement of either side of the abortion issue. Rather it is a necessary addition to the knowledge of herbs. As with all herbs, extreme care and foreknowledge of the use of said herbs is advised. It is not suggested that one should use herbs or avoid professional medical advice. The information provided here is strictly for academic information...

Pennyroyal, Black or Blue Cohosh and other similar herbs are toxic in excess and can easily stress the liver and kidneys, causing headaches, extreme nausea, bleeding, or even death.

Women with the following problems are particularly at risk; high blood pressure, epilepsy, allergies, diabetes, liver, heart or kidney problems, an IUD or a recent pelvic inflammatory disease, and women taking other drugs as these may aggravate existing medical problems and/or dangerously affect the way the herbs are meant to work.

Herbal abortion’s are very dangerous and can lead to death. Never ingest essential oils in an effort to abort, many essential oils are fatal.

Angelica/Dong Quai: (Angelica atropurpurea) (Angelica sinesis)

This is a uterine stimulant with the ability to strengthen and coordinate contractions, to help encourage the uterus to expel its contents. Angelica has a powerful action over a woman's reproductive system. Angelica will bring on delayed menstruation 60% of the time, if menstruation is no more than two weeks over due.

If you take blood thinning agents like aspirin or other pharmaceutics, do not use Angelica or Dong Quai, as these have the tendency to increase bleeding, when used with a blood thinner, clotting may be impaired, hemorrhage may be the result of the combination. Also, if you tend to bleed heavily during normal menstruation is cautious when using Dong Quai or Angelica.

Black Cohosh: (Actaea racemosa, Cimicifuga racemosa)

Black Cohosh is used to help the cervix relax and open. Many herbalists and midwives say it has the ability to "ripen the cervix" in preparation for childbirth. An anti-spasmodic herb, it is often used in conjunction with Blue Cohosh. For menstrual stimulating and abortifacient purposes any herb including Black Cohosh should not be used any longer than 10 days, toxic build up or side effects could result otherwise. Black Cohosh should not be combined with anti-depressants. Black Cohosh can depress heart rate; anyone with any type of heart disease should not use this herb. When using Black Cohosh to disrupt pregnancy, keep in mind that Black Cohosh is a helper herb, helping to prepare the cervix to release the contents of the uterus. It is often used during childbirth to help ripen the cervix in preparation for delivery. It is best used combined with Blue Cohosh and it combines well with vitamin C & Dong quai.

Blue Cohosh: (Caulophyllum thalictroides)

Blue Cohosh is a uterine stimulant. With unique properties that encourage the uterus to contract. Native American Chippewa women used a strong decoction of Blue Cohosh for contraceptive purposes. Its abortive qualities are best extracted into an alcohol base, thus a tincture made from the root would be the best form to take. When attempting to dislodge pregnancy causing the uterus to contract is desirable. Blue Cohosh can be used by itself or combined with Pennyroyal, an herb with abortifacient qualities and/or Black Cohosh.

Blue Cohosh is not recommended for use by those who have kidney or heart problems of any kind, including high blood pressure and low blood pressure.

Wild Carrot: (Daucus carota)

A teaspoon of crushed seeds has long been used as a contraceptive; its use for this purpose was first described by Hippocrates over 2,000 years ago. Wild carrot disrupts the implantation process, and is thus an abortifacient. The seeds block progesterone synthesis. Wild Carrot leaves contain significant amounts of porphyrins, which stimulate the pituitary gland and lead to the release of increased levels of sex hormones, and stimulates the uterus. The plant is also used to encourage delayed menstruation, and can induce uterine contractions.

Cotton Root Bark: (Gossypium hirsutum)

Cotton Root Bark should be used by itself. It interferes with progesterone, and the corpus luteum. It stimulates uterine contractions. It is reported to be the safest and most certain herbal abortifacient. A Chinese study shows that cotton root bark has the ability to interrupt pregnancy due to its anti-progesterone and anti-corpus luteum effect. These effects cause the lining of the uterus to be non-supportive to a fertilized egg. The dosage is 12 teaspoons of the bark from the root per quart of water, 1-2 quarts of this tea per day.

Evening Primrose (Oenothera hookeri)

Evening Primrose may be helpful when used externally to help "ripen the cervix", this phrase is often used during the birthing process to refer to the condition of the cervix, the cervix has to dilate to allow a newborn to pass, if the cervix is not ready, midwifes has herbs they can use to help encourage the cervix to get ready. Things happen a bit differently in a herbal abortion or miscarriage, the cervix won't dilate the way it does during birth, but some of the same herbs may still help the cervix to relax and help to facilitate release of the unwanted pregnancy. In Europe, Evening Primrose is a proven treatment for PMS. The major constituents of Evening Primrose are Alanine (0.5%), arginine (1.5%), aspartic acid (1.2%), beta-sitosterol (1.2-2.5%), calcium (1.3-1.8%), cellulose (27%), gamma-linolenic acid (0.5-10%), glutamic acid (2.7%), glycine (1%), fat (15-32%), fiber (43%), histidine (0.4%), isoleucine (0.5%), leucine (1%), lignin (16%), linoleic acid (12-22%), lysine (0.3%), methionine (0.6%), phenylalanine (0.7%), proline (0.6%), protein (15-17%), serine (0.9%) threonine (0.4%), tryptophan (up to 1.6%), tyrosine (0.4%), valine (up to 0.8%).

Pennyroyal (Mentha pulegium)

Pennyroyal is the smallest of the Mints and is one of the more toxic choices available. It is an herb with a long history as an abortifacient. Pennyroyal oils are high in pulegone, a highly toxic volatile, which can stimulate uterine activity. Pennyroyal tea may safely stimulate mild increase in menstrual flow, but the oils have been known to cause fatalities when ingested. Pennyroyal is dangerous and has led to serious adverse effects and death. Pennyroyal is not recommended during pregnancy and breast- feeding because of the risk of birth defects or spontaneous abortion. Historically, pennyroyal has been used with Blue Cohosh or Black Cohosh to induce abortions. However, these combinations are not considered safe and have resulted in death.

Parsley

Parsley is a mild emmenagogue (an herb which stimulates menstruation), it works very well for starting menstruation when pregnancy is not the cause for delay. Drinking a cup of strong parsley tea will generally suffice. Parsley can be used as a pessary (vaginal suppository) to prepare the cervix for release. For terminating pregnancy, parsley is considered a helper herb which when used by itself it will not cause abortion. It can be used as a tea, and combines well with vitamin C. A parsley pessary (vaginal insert) can aide in softening the cervix, helping it to open, to prepare for release. A pessary is made by taking 2-4 sprigs of parsley, rinse and removes the larger part of the stem just below the first leaf joint. After rinsing them, push them inside the vagina, as far back as you can, placing them against the cervix. They may feel bulky at first, but they will gradually soften from your body heat. Change it every 12 hours, twice a day, particularly leaving it in overnight.

To remove the pessary, reach inside with your first two fingers and scoop out the softened herb, look for any blood, then discard. Replace with fresh parsley.

Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare)

The essential oil of Tansy should never be taken internally, it is lethal even in small amounts.

Tansy's main constitute, is thujone, which is highly toxic, and very concentrated in the oil. Thujone also has a potent action on the uterus, it’s a uterine stimulant. Again I want to stress, this is a strong herb and it has been known to cause adverse side effects even when used in small amounts. It can cause temporary lumps in the breasts and lead to hemorrhaging.

Suggested dosage is said to be 10 drops of the tincture in a cup of warm water every 2 hours until bleeding begins. This means during the night as well, every 2 hours.

To make a tea, use 1/2 to 1 teaspoon (tsp) of the dried herb per cup of water 3-4 times a day, for up to 7 days maximum.

Tincture: 1/4 to 3/4 tsp in a cup of warm water 3-4 times a day.

Those women who definitely should not use Tansy are women who menstruate heavily, who have with epilepsy, liver problems, kidney problems, or is phototoxic.

Herbal abortions are very difficult. Often, the amount of herb necessary to induce an abortion, are at toxic levels which can easily result in adverse conditions to the body and/or death.

The information provided here is to expand your knowledge of herbs and their potential uses. However, there is no intent here to encourage such use of these or any herbs. Knowledge is awareness...

Quiz:

1. A teaspoon of crushed seeds of ______has long been used as a contraceptive.

2. Evening Primrose is a proven treatment for ______.

3. Do not use Angelica atropurpurea if you take ______agents.

4. Pennyroyal oils are high in ______, a highly toxic volatile.

5. Tansy's main constituent is ______.

6. Black Cohosh is often used in conjunction with ______.

7. Wild Carrot leaves contain significant amounts of ______.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb course

Lesson Twenty Three - Compound Powders

Compound powders are made from fresh parts of plants which are mashed into fine particles of the herb. By forming a powder, the herb can be taken either by capsule, in water, in herbal teas, or sprinkled onto food. Take the required herb and beat it into a powder (if it is not dry enough then dry it slowly by a fire). Sieve the powder so that you get only the finest. The powder is commonly used for functional disorders, while the decoctions are commonly used for organic disorders.

The use of compound powders has been mentioned in the Huangdi Neijing (compiled by the Yellow Emperor) and even the pre-Neijing scroll "Wushier Bing Fang" (circa 168 B.C.E.).

The honey pills that were common prior to the introduction of mass-produced tablets were simply made by combining herb powder with honey and rolling into a pill. Typically, these pills were made with one-third honey and two-thirds herb powder, and the pill size was commonly 6 or 9 grams in total. These large pills would then be consumed either by adding them to water and boiling them briefly or they could be chewed up, or sliced into smaller pieces and swallowed whole. The dose would usually be one pill each time, one to three times per day depending on the condition.

Pulvis Effervescens Compositus Seidlitz Powders - Aperient Effervescing Powders.

Bicarbonate of Sodium, 480 grains. Tartrate of Potassium and Sodium, 1440 grains.

Mix them intimately together and divide into 12 powders, which are to be put up in blue papers. Tartaric Acid, in fine powder, 420 grains. Divide into 12 powders, which are to be put up in white paper.

When taken the contents of one of the blue papers is to be dissolved in about 11/2 ounce of water, and the contents of one white paper in about one ounce of water. The solutions are then to be mixed and immediately drank during effervescense.

Pulvis Aromaticus - Aromatic Powder.

Cinnamon, No. 60 powder, 7 drachms. Ginger, No. 60 powder, 7 drachms. Cardamom, No. 60 powder, 3 drachms. Nutmeg, No. 60 powder, 3 drachms.

Mix them intimately.

Aromatic Powder is used for making several preparations, and as an addition to other powders.

Aloes Powder Compound.

Aloes, in fine powder, 3 ounces. Guaiacum Resin, in fine powder, 2 ounces. Aromatic Powder, 1 ounce.

Rub them well together. This is a warm, sudorific, purgative, in doses of 10 to 20 grains.

Pulvis Asclepiadis Compositus. - Compound Powder of Pleurisy Root

Preparation: Take of pleurisy root, spearmint, and sumach berries, each, in powder, 2 ounces; bayberry bark, and skunk cabbage, each, in powder, 1 ounce; pulverized ginger, 1/2 ounce. Mix them.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage.—Very useful diaphoretic in coughs, colds, and as a drink in febrile diseases. Two drachms of the powder may be infused in 1/2 pint of boiling water, sweetened, and drank in wineglassful doses, every 1 or 2 hours. Or in common colds, the 1/2 pint of warm infusion may be taken at a draught, and repeated in an hour if necessary

Pulvis Cypripedii Compositus - Compound Powder of Yellow Ladies'-Slipper.

Preparation: Take of yellow ladies'-slipper root, pleurisy root (more), skunk cabbage root (more), and scullcap (more), each, in powder, 1 ounce. Mix them.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This powder is useful to allay irritability or excitability of the nervous system, to relieve spasms, and to produce sleep in restless, wakeful, or excited conditions. When acidity of the stomach is present, it is common to add bicarbonate of sodium, 1 ounce. The dose is from 1/2 to 1 drachm, 3 times a day, or as required. It is usually administered in tea or water

Pulvis Hydrastis Compositus - Compound Powder of Golden Seal.

Preparation: Take of golden seal, blue cohosh, and helonias, each, in powder, 1/2 ounce. Mix together.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This powder is tonic and antispasmodic. It is very efficient in dyspepsia, chronic inflammation of the mucous membrane of the stomach, and will afford much relief in cases of distress of the stomach after eating, and in aphthous inflammations of the mouth. It may also be administered, to prevent a relapse, in bilious colic. The dose is from 1/2 to 1 drachm, 3 or 4 times a day, in water, tea, or wine, as the case may require

Pulvis Lobeliae Compositus - Compound Powder of Lobelia.

Preparation: Take of lobelia, in powder, 6 drachms; bloodroot and skunk cabbage, in powder, each, 3 drachms; ipecacuanha, 4 drachms; capsicum, in powder, 1 drachm. Mix them.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This is an excellent emetic, and may be employed in all cases where an emetic is indicated. It vomits easily and promptly, without causing cramps or excessive prostration. The dose is 2 drachms, 1/4 of which (1/2 drachm) must be given every 15 minutes, in an infusion of boneset. Warm boneset, drank freely during the time of taking it, will very much facilitate its operation, and it will also be found that, in many cases, temperate water (at 60° F.) will be equally as effective in assisting the induction of emesis as an infusion, and much more agreeable (J. King). Compound powder of lobelia is an exceedingly efficient local application to the chest in colds and broncho-pulmonic troubles in general. For this purpose it should be sprinkled upon a larded or petrolated cloth and applied warm.

Pulvis Myricae Compositus - Compound Powder of Bayberry.

Preparation: Take of bayberry bark and bloodroot, each, in powder, 1 drachm. Mix them (Beach's Amer. Prac.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage: This powder is used either alone or combined with an equal part of common snuff, as a snuff, in catarrh, headache, polypus, etc. In obstinate affections of the nasal mucous membrane, it is frequently combined with sesquicarbonate of potash, 1 or 2 drachms, and golden seal, 1/2 ounce; or, with finely-powdered chloride of ammonium, 1 drachm. This powder should not be confused with the composition powder bearing the same name (see Related Powder).

Related Powder - PULVIS MYRICAE COMPOSITUS (N. F.), Compound powder of bayberry, Composition powder. "Bayberry, bark of the root, sixty grammes (60 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 51 grs.]; ginger, thirty grammes (30 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 25 grs.]; capsicum, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]; cloves, five grammes (5 Gm.) [77 grs.]. Reduce the substances to a moderately fine powder. Note.—Bayberry root bark is derived from Myrica cerifera, Linné (Wax myrtle, Candleberry)"—(Nat. Form.). This powder is practically the same as the Thomson Composition Powder, or Number Six. It is a valuable diaphoretic when given in teaspoonful doses, in warm infusion. Useful in breaking up acute colds and in the consequences arising therefrom.

Pulvis Podophylli Compositus - Compound Powder of Mandrake.

Preparation: Take of blue flag, mandrake, bitter root, swamp milkweed, each, in powder, 1 ounce; bloodroot, 1/2 ounce. Mix together.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This powder is cathartic and alterative, and is useful in cases of obstinate constipation, hepatic derangements, dyspepsia, worms, and in scrofulous, rheumatic, and syphilitic affections. The dose is 1/2 or 1 drachm, repeated 3 times a day. It may be administered in water or tea.

Pulvis Rhei Compositus - Compound Powder of Rhubarb

Preparation:Take of rhubarb, bicarbonate of potassium, and peppermint leaves, each, in powder, 1 ounce. Mix together

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage - This powder is an invaluable remedy in diarrhoea, cholera morbus, dysentery, summer complaint of children, acidity of stomach, heartburn, and as a mild cathartic during pregnancy. The dose is from 1/2 to 2 drachms, every 1, 2, or 3 hours, as may be required (see Syrup of Rhubarb and Potassa).

Related Preparations - PULVIS RHEI COMPOSITUS (U. S. P.), Compound powder of rhubarb, Gregory's powder, Magnesia and rhubarb, Pulvis antacidus, Pulvis infantum, Pulvis magnesiae cum rhei. "Rhubarb, in No. 60 powder, twenty-five grammes (25 Gm.) [386 grs.]; magnesia, sixty-five grammes (65 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 128 grs.]; ginger, in No. 60 powder, ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs.]; to make one hundred grammes (100 Gm.) [3 ozs. av., 231 grs.]. Rub them together until they are thoroughly mixed"—(U. S. P.). To properly prepare this powder, the rhubarb and ginger should first be rubbed together, and the magnesia, on account of its lightness, be gradually added and incorporated, after which the whole should be put through a bolting-cloth sieve. When fresh and dry the powder is of a yellowish color; upon absorbing moisture, or in aqueous or alcoholic suspension, a deep- red color ensues, owing to a reaction between the magnesia and rhubarb constituents. Dose, 5 to 60 grains.

PULVIS RHEI ET MAGNEAE ANISATUS (N. F.), Anisated powder of rhubarb and magnesia, Compound anise powder. "Rhubarb, in fine powder, thirty-five grammes (35 Gm.) [1 oz. av., 103 grs.]; heavy magnesia, calcined, sixty-five grammes (65 Gm.) [2 ozs. av., 128 grs.]; oil of anise, eight cubic centimeters (8 Cc.) [130]; alcohol, ten cubic centimeters (10 Cc.) [162]. Mix the powders, add the oil of anise, previously dissolved in the alcohol, and triturate until a uniform mixture results"

Quiz:

1. Aloes Powder Compound is a warm sudoforic, ______.

2. The Huangdi Neijing was compiled by the ______.

3. In Pulvis Myricae Compositus, Bayberry is mixed wit ______.

4. ______is useful to allay irritability or excitability of the nervous system.

5. Pulvis Podophylli Compositus consists of blue flag, mandrake, bitter root and ______.

6. Pulvis Hydrastis Compositus is a tonic and ______.

7. Compound Powder of Rhubarb is combined with ______leaves.

Whispering Woods Intermediate Herb Course

Lesson Twenty Four - Pills

Many Herbalists prefer to make their own pills as a matter of reliability.

Many of the old solid extracts were very difficult to work evenly into a pill mass, and required much preparation before they were ready for use.

But with todays extracts this has now become a much more reliable process for the modern herbalist.

Many Excipients have been proposed for making pills, with which druggists are already familiar, such as mucilage, syrup, glucose, honey, soap, and glycerin. And all of them have their uses, but nothing has been found so good for general purposes as the Starch Plasma.

It is tenacious without being elastic, readily mixable, free from odor or objectionable taste, does not mould or spoil, keeps without change, keeps the pills soft and pliable, is inexpensive, and readily made as follows :

Excipient:

Starch, in fine powder, 1 drachm. Glycerin, by weight, 1 ounce

Mix and heat, with constant stirring, to boiling (240° F.), or until it has assumed a uniform gelatinous mass. Too high a degree of heat must not be used, as it will burn the Starch on the bottom, and it must be constantly stirred to prevent this result. It can be made best on a sandbath.

In making pills with this Excipient, use only a small quantity, well worked in with the pestle, and then if more is required it may be added.

The Driers:

The chief use of the Drier is to dust the tile and roller and the pills after they are made, to prevent sticking together.

It is also sometimes necessary to use it with the mass when the extracts used are too soft or when oils or other liquids enter into the composition.

A great many substances are used as Driers, such as Powdered Liquorice Root, Lycopodium, Flour, Starch, etc., but the best dryer to meet all the requirements for which it is needed, is made thus:

Drier:

Starch, in very fine powder, Elm Bark, in very fine powder equal parts, mixed.

This will be found much better than powdered Liquorice, Lycopodium, or other substances usually used for this purpose.

Finely powdered Starch or Wheat Flour alone is better for white pills than the above Drier, as it does not color them. Dextrine also makes a good Drier for colored pills.

They are best applied as a dusting, with an ordinary salt sprinkler or pepper-box, such as are used on the dining table.

Making Pills:

The Mass should always be made in a mortar, proportionate to the amount required, and with a pestle, not too large. It is best to observe the following order in making the mass, so as to secure the best results in the least time.

First - Reduce all crystals or pulverizable masses to a very fine powder by rubbing in the mortar. Powerful drugs like Strychnine, Atropia, Morphia, etc., should be mixed with a small quantity of Sugar of Milk in powdering, so as to secure a thorough distribution of their particles.

When the crystals or other drugs are thoroughly powdered, add any powdered extracts, resins, or other powdered drugs that may bedirected, and mix thoroughly in the mortar.

Second - Add any solid extracts, confections or other masses that may be directed, taking great care to have them in such condition that they can be readily worked up with the other ingredients. Most extracts can be softened by warming a little; some require a little Water or Alcohol.

Mix these thoroughly with the powders in the mortar by working them in with the pestle.

When this is done, if it requires to be softened (which is generally the case), add enough of the Excipient to make into a pilular mass, or, if too soft, add enough of the Drier to harden it.

When using the Excipient, only a small amount is necessary, but it must be well worked in.

Never add Alcohol, Water, or Syrup to a pill mass if it can be avoided.

If any oils are directed in the formula, they should be mixed in a mortar with the Excipient before it is added to the mass.

They are thus emulsified and the oily particles broken up, so that a thorough distribution is effected. Do not add oils to the powders in the mortar, as a portion of the powder absorbs the oil and the distribution is much retarded. It is also much more difficult to work the mass than when the oils are first combined with the Excipient.

If too much Excipient has been used, Drier may be added to bring it to the requisite temper, but it is better to be careful and not add too much, as the Drier increases the bulk and size of the pill.

The Pill.

Having now prepared the mass, the Pill is next in order.

First, weigh the mass carefully and then (if for more than 24 Pills) divide it into portions that will make as many Pills as the Pill machine, tile, or divider indicates— 12, 18 or 24 is the usual number.

For instance, if 100 Pills are to be made, and the whole mass weighs 316 grains, each Pill will be 3.16 grains. If the Pill tile, divider or machine is marked for 18 Pills, 3.16x18=56.88, or 57 grains, should be the weight of each portion, and you will have as many portions as 18 is contained in 100, or 51/2 portions.

Second - Dust the tile or machine with the drier, and roll each portion out to the length indicated for the number of Pills. Several portions may be rolled out together at the same time, side by side, if the mass is of proper consistence, and drier is properly used. They should be rolled evenly from end to end, with a slanting motion of the roller.

When rolled to the proper length, divide as indicated by the tile, divider or machine, and roll into Pills. Complete the rolling at last by rolling the rounded Pills gently with a circular motion of the roller on the slab.

Put in a shallow tin, or other convenient dish, in a cool place to harden.

A jelly-cake tin is very convenient for this purpose. A scale pan may also be used. The Pills, thus prepared, are ready for coating.

Coating Pills

Pills are coated chiefly to render them tasteless while being taken; but the coating also serves the purpose of protecting them from the atmosphere.

Sugar Coating - The apparatus for coating Pills advantageously with sugar is quite expensive, and the experience required to coat them artistically is considerable.

They may, however, be coated in a small way by revolving the Pills after they are made in a little albumen or mucilage, to give them a thin coating, then transferring to another dish, dusting them well with finely powdered sugar, and rolling them in a shallow evaporating dish, thus giving them an even coating.

This method is only used for extemporaneous work. To coat Pills with sugar as they are found in the market requires large copper revolving globes, of which the upper third is cut off, and which are revolved at an angle (the same as are used by confectioners). The best apparatus of this sort is also arranged for an oscillating motion, which prevents the Pills from adhering to the side. They are also arranged with heating apparatus, so that the heat may be maintained at any desired degree.

The Pills are first partially dried, then coated over with Tincture of Tolu or a Solution of Shellac. Then put in the coating apparatus, add a little syrup of white sugar and a sprinkling of starch from time to time, while the globe is slowly revolved, a very moderate heat being applied at the same time, until the coating is of sufficient thickness. To give a finish or polish to the Pills after they are coated, they are agitated in the coater with a few lumps of paraffin or wax. It is obvious that small quantities of Pills cannot be conveniently sugar-coated in this manner.

It will thus be seen that sugar-coating Pills as they are found in the market requires expensive machinery, experience and time, which are not at the disposal of the average herbalist.

Gelatin Coating - Pills may be coated with Gelatin by sticking them on pins and dipping them in a Solution of Gelatin, etc., heated sufficiently to keep it liquid, then revolving them in the air until the coating is sufficiently set so that the Pills will not adhere when put together.

The solution for Gelatin or Soluble Coating may be made as follows:

Gelatin Coating

Best White Gelatin, Cooper's, Cox's, or French, 1 ounce average Water, 4 fl. ounces

Dissolve the Gelatin in the water, by heat of water-bath, and strain through a tin strainer or a sieve into a water-bath, which must be kept warm, adding a trifle of warm water occasionally to make up for the evaporation. Dip the Pills in the Solution quickly, and revolve in the air until dry.

Gelacacia or Soluble Coating

Gelatin, best white, 1 ounce average Gum Arabic, select, 1/2 ounce average Glycerin, 1/4 ounce average Water, 41/2 ounces average

Dissolve the Gum Arabic in 2 ounces of the Water by allowing standing over night, adding this to the Gelatin and balance of the Water and Glycerin and heat to dissolve the Gelatin. When dissolved strain and keep warm with a water-bath while using.

The pills, stuck on pins or needles, are to be dipped into the solution and dried by revolving in the air.

This makes the best and smoothest coating for pills. It may with propriety be called Gelatin Coating. Apparatus of various kinds may be obtained for Gelatin-Coating pill, but without experience it proves generally unsatisfactory as far as desired results.

Pills may also be coated with a solution of Shellac, 90 grains to 1 ounceof Alcohol, which does very well for extemporaneous work. They may be dipped in the solution or revolved in an evaporating dish with a very small quantity of it.

Silvering and Gilding Pills

Pills are sometimes coated with silver or gold leaf. This is done simply by moistening the pills with a thin coating of Albumen or Acacia solution and then revolving in a small globe in which leaves of silver or gold have been placed. The process is familiar to most druggists and many already have the small globes for silvering or gilding.

Besides the substances already mentioned for coating pills, French Chalk or Starch are sometimes used, the pills being first rolled in a solution of Acacia and then transferred to another dish containing the coating substance, which adheres sufficiently for the purpose. Paraffin and Cacao Butter are also used for coating pills.

Pill Recipes:

Following are some sample recipes.

Aloes and Iron Pills

Purified Aloes, Dried Sulphate of Iron Aromatic Powder, one grain each, with sufficient Confection of Roses to make a mass.

Aloes and Myrrh Pills

Purified Aloes 2 grains, Myrrh 1 grain, Aromatic Powder 1/2 grain, mixed with syrup, in each pill

Anti-bilious Pills

Compound Extract of Colocynth 21/2 grains, Podophyllin 1/4 grain in each

Aphrodisiac Pills

Extract Damiana 2 grains Extract Nux Vomica 1/3 grain Phosphorus 1/100 grain, in each pill

Capsicum Pills

Capsicum 1 grain, with Extract Gentian as an excipient in each pill

Cathartic Vegetable Pills

3 Grains Compound Extract Colocynth 11/2 grains Podophyllin 1/3 grain Leptandrin 1/8 grain, Extract Jalap 1/4 grain Socotrine Aloes 1/2 grain Extract Hyoscyamus 1/4 grain, Oil Peppermint 1/20 minim, in each pill.

Damiana Extract Pills

These are made 3 to 5 grains of the extract in each pill.

Hooper's Pills

Barbadoes Aloes 1 grain Sulphate Iron Exsic 1/3 grain Extract Hellebore Gum Myrrh Castile Soap, each 1/4 grain, Jamaica Ginger 1/8 grain Canella Alba 1/8 grain in each pill.

Mandrake Extract Pills

These are made 1 grain of Extract of Mandrake in each pill

Pilulae Aconiti Compositae - Compound Pills of Aconite.

Take of extract of aconite, 1/2 drachm; extract of stramonium, 4 grains; valerianate of quinine, 20 grains. Mix thoroughly, form a pill mass, and divide into 60 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These pills are very efficient in febrile and inflammatory complaints, where nervous irritability, restlessness, or wakefulness is present; also in nervous headache, and other nervous affections. They are but little used at the present time. The dose is 1 pill every 2, 3, or 4 hours, according to the urgency of the symptoms, and the effect caused by the use of the pills

Pilulae Baptisiae Compositae - Compound Pills of Wild Indigo.

Preparation.—Take of extract of leptandra, 4 grains; resin of podophyllum, 8 grains; sanguinarine, 1 grain; alcoholic extract of wild indigo root, a sufficient quantity to form a pill mass. Mix thoroughly together, and divide into 16 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These pills are cholagogue, laxative, and antiseptic; they were formerly considered especially useful in typhoid fevers, and in all typhoid conditions, where it was required to keep the bowels regular. The dose is 1 pill, to be repeated every 2, 3, or 4 hours until a mild operation is produced; to be given daily, or every other day

Pilulae Cimicifugae Compositae - Compound Pills of Black Cohosh.

Preparation.—Take of the alcoholic extracts of black cohosh and scutellaria, each, 1 drachm; valerianate of quinine, 1/2 drachm. Mix thoroughly together, form into a pill mass, and divide into 60 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These pills will be found very useful in chorea and other derangements of the nervous system, also in fevers or other diseases, attended with much restlessness or wakefulness, and in several uterine affections. The dose is 1 pill every 1, 2, or 3 hours, daily, according to the urgency of the symptoms

Pilulae Leonuri Compositae - Compound Pills of Motherwort.

Preparation.—Take of the alcoholic extracts of motherwort and unicorn-root, each, 2 drachms; extract of leptandra, resin of cimicifuga, each, 1 drachm. Mix thoroughly together, form a pill mass, and divide into 60 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These pills are useful in many uterine affections, acting as a uterine tonic and alterative. One pill may be given every 1, 2, or 4 hours, according to the urgency of the case

Pilulae Rhei - Pills of Rhubarb.

Preparation - "Rhubarb, in No. 60 powder, twenty grammes (20 Gm.) [309 grs.]; soap, in fine powder, six grammes; water, is a sufficient quantity to make 100 pills. Beat the powders together with water so as to form a mass, to be divided into 100 pills". This pill contains 3 grains of rhubarb.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — it is mildly laxative in 3-grain doses (1 pill). They are of value in mild forms of constipation. The dose is 1 to 3 pills.

Pilulae Rhei Compositae - Compound Pills of Rhubarb.

Preparation - "Rhubarb, in No. 60 powder, thirteen grammes (13 Gm.) [201 grs.]; purified aloes, in fine powder, ten grammes (10 Gm.) [154 grs.]; myrrh, in fine powder, six grammes (6 Gm.) [93 grs.]; oil of peppermint, one-half cubic centimeter (0.5 Cc.) [8]; water, a sufficient quantity to make 100 pills. Mix the oil of peppermint with the powders, then beat the mixture with water so as to form a mass, to be divided in to 100 pills"—(U. S. P.).

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — Tonic, laxative. They are useful in chronic constipation and gastric and intestinal flatulence. The dose is 1 to 4 pills.

Pilulae Taraxaci Compositae - Compound Pills of Dandelion.

Preparation.—Take of bloodroot, in powder, 1 drachm; resin of podophyllum, 10 grains; extract of dandelion, 1 drachm; oil of spearmint, 5 minims. Mix the powder with the extract, add the oil, beat up thoroughly together, and divides into 50 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — Laxative, nauseant, and diuretic. They are of much efficacy in jaundice, hepatic diseases, and affections of the kidneys. The dose is 1 or 2 pills, 3 times a day, sufficient to produce a slight sensation of nausea.

Pilulae Viburni Compositae - Compound Pills of High Cranberry.

Preparation.—Take of alcoholic extracts of high cranberry, blue cohosh, and unicorn root, each, 1/2 drachm; extract of partridge-berry, 1 drachm. Mix together, and divide into 40 pills.

Action, Medical Uses, and Dosage — These pills are of superior efficacy in uterine diseases, as amenorrhoea, dysmenorrhoea, leucorrhoea, etc.; as a uterine tonic in habitual miscarriages; and may be given during pregnancy to relieve cramps and many other unpleasant sensations occurring at that period. The dose is 1 or 2 pills, 3 times a day

Podophyllin, Capsicum and Belladonna Pills

Podophyllin 1/4 grain Extract Belladonna 1/4 grain Capsicum 1/2 grain, in each pill.

Valerian Extract Pills

These are made 3 grains in each pill.

Quiz:

1. A good drier for colored pills is ______.

2. Pills are coated chiefly to render them ______.

3. Pills are sometimes coated with silver or ______.

4. Compound Pills of Black Cohosh are useful in ______.

5. The Mass should always be made in a ______.

6. Many Herbalists prefer to make their own pills as a matter of ______.

7. Compound Pills of Motherwort act as a ______tonic.

Intermediate Herb Course Final Exam

1. A decoction is also similar to an ______.

2. The Latin name Salvia divinorum literally translates to ______.

3. Senna is a certain, manageable, and convenient ______.

4. Grape seed oil is an excellent base for making ______.

5. The most popular method of distilliation is ______.

6. Paraffin wax is not soaked as well into the skin as ______.

7. An emulsion is a mixture of two ______substances.

8. The Greek God of medicine is ______.

9. Mandrake Extract Pills contain __ gram of mandrake.

10. Cold poultices, such as plantain, provides cool moist ______.

11. ______often shares habitat with the common cat-tail.

12. The roots of mallow are rich in beneficial ______.

13. Vinum Hydrastis Compositum is useful in ______.

14. Trochisci Zingiberis forms a grateful cordial ______.

15. Meng Shen, is a Chinese herbalist who wrote the first diet herbal describing ____ herbs.

16. The leaves of Mistletoe can be used as a emetic and a ______.

17. Mistura Camphorae Composita is a very efficient agent in allaying nausea and ______.

18. Syrupus Zingiberis is used as a remedy in atonic bowel complaints of ______.

19. The salicylic acid strength in Unguentum Acidi Salicylici, is 1 in __.

20. ______is generally accredited with instituting a new era in the study of elixirs.

21. Sage and Vinegar poultices are traditional for treating ______or ______.

22. Oleander contains the toxins oleandrin and ______.

23. Woodruff has ______effects.

24. Elixirs may also be made by using ______as the energizing factor.

25. Dentition is the eruption through the gums of ______.

26. Pilulae Taraxaci Compositae is laxative, nauseant, and ______.

27. Aqua Cinnamomi should not be used when ______or inflammation is present.

28. Use 2 cups of cider vinegar in the tub to soak sore muscles and add ______to muscles.

29. Aqua Menthae Piperitae is used as an antispasmodic and ______.

30. Lotio Hydrastis et Aconiti forms a superior application to the ____.

31. Unguentum Belladonnae forms a ______application for the relief of pain and spasm.

32. With Decoctum Sarsae, the longer the preparation is boiled the ______it becomes.

33. Unguentum Cucumis forms a ______application.

34. The solution procured from the various parts of plants, by boiling them in water, is called a ______.

35. The Dakotas use calamus to treat ______.

36. Mistura Chenopodii Composita is an excellent ______.

37. Emulsio Olei Ricini contains 8 grams of _____.

38. The leaves and flowers of Turnera diffusa are used as a ______.

39. Aqua Foeniculi is a pleasant aromatic, a stimulant and ______.

40. The excipient used in Capsicum Pills is Extract ______.

41. Trochisci Acidi Benzoici contains half a grain of ______.

42. An onion poultice is used in cases of deep lung congestion and bronchial ______.

43. A decoction made of Milk Thistle seed (Silybum marianum) is ideal for chronic and post-acute stages of ______.

44. Lotio Sassafras is an extemporaneous preparation, and is principally used in acute ______.

45. Soporific herbs are ones that help to produce ______.

46. The primary poisons in Daphne are ______and anhydride.

47. Decoctum Scoparii is actively ______.

48. Aqua Anisi is used principally as a pleasant vehicle for the administration of ______and such cathartics.

49. Vervain is an excellent ______.

50. Pulvis Myricae Compositus is used either alone or combined with an equal part of common ______.

51. The Delaware Indians used hops as a ______.

52. Emulsum Amygdalae is ______and nutritive.

53. Unguentum Myricae forms an excellent application to ______and indolent ulcers generally.

54. Syrupus Cinnamomi is a warm aromatic stomachic, ______, and astringent.

55. Unguentum Veratri Albi should be cautiously applied to ______.

56. It is believed that the Chinese were the first ones to engage in the art of ______.

57. Emplastrum Capsici Compositum forms a gently stimulating and strengthening ______.

58. Yusif Khoyi in 1311 CE prescribed bathing with ______cones to ease allergic itch of the skin.

59. Mistura Sodae et Menthae is used as an ______and carminative.

60. Centella Asiatica is called the tiger herb in ______.

61. Cataplasma Phytolaccae is especially valuable in ______of an indolent character

62. Leonurus cardiaca is made into a strong decoction by adding __ __ of herb to a pint of boiliing water.

63. Cotton Root Bark interferes with progesterone, and the ______.

64. Aqua Foeniculi is a pleasant aromatic, ______and carminative.

65. Damiana is known as ______