Herbalism
In 2021, our Herbal Intern Maya prepared these explanations of common herbs we work with at the farm. You may find some of these in your CSA share, some are available for purchase as tinctures and tea blends, and others you may find growing in your own yard! Enjoy these explanations, and see what teas and tincture blends are available for purchase today here.
Dandelion
Taraxacum officinale
Asteraceae (Daisy) family
Growth and Climate
Dandelion is native to Europe and Asia and was imported to the Americas during colonization. It can now be found in most temperate climates. While the greens and roots can be consumed at any time of year, the greens turn bitter in the summer and so are best enjoyed in the springtime. Roots should always be harvested in the spring or fall when the plant’s energy is devoted to that part.
Uses
Dandelion is effective in reducing heat trapped in the body by cleansing the blood and organs responsible for dealing with toxins in the body such as the liver, gallbladder, and pancreas. Dandelion is regarded as a highly effective remedy to improve liver congestion, bile duct inflammation, hepatitis, gallstones, and jaundice by enhancing the flow of bile. Dandelion can be used in response to symptoms related to these issues such as high cholesterol, excess urea, gout, constipation, portal stagnation, varicose veins, cellulitis, eczema, acne, and herpes. Dandelion can be especially effective for chronic inflammatory conditions. Additionally, because the leaves are rich in potassium and sodium, they can aid kidneys and people who have experienced long-term diarrhea due to a condition like Crohn’s disease for example. The greens have a diuretic effect while the roots tend more to cholagogue (discharging bile), and the flower acts on the heart.
History and Folklore
Dandelion has been known to many cultures as a spring tonic and as a blood purifier. Eating the greens in the springtime started in Europe and has migrated to the Americas. In England and Ireland, dandelion was commonly used as a broad-reaching medicine, addressing issues such as colds, increasing urination, and cleansing the blood. In Persia and parts of east India, dandelion was used as a mild laxative and appetite stimulant. There is also speculation that dandelion was one of the bitter herbs referenced in the Old Testament.
Indications
Indications to use dandelion can be shown in the tongue. Matthew Wood speaks of a “mapped tongue” where the tongue is rough and comes off in patches leaving sore red spots. This is a sign of trapped heat in the body which can thicken the blood and bodily fluids. Manic depression is also an indication for dandelion.
Sources:
Engels, Gayle, and Josef Brinckmann. “Dandelion – American Botanical Council.” American Botanical Council, American Botanical Council, www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/109/table-of-contents/hg109-herbpro-dandelion/.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Glossary
Many of the following terms are herbal actions, meaning they describe the effect of herbs on the body.
Acrid: Itchy, biting sensation
Adaptogen: Bring on an adrenaline rush
Alterative: Bring in nutrition or excrete waste; short-term effect
Aromatic: Strong smell; containing volatile oils
Astringent: Tones and tightens, drying effect
Anti-microbial: Antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal
Bitter: Stimulates function (diuretic, laxative); draining downward effect
Carminative: Reducing or preventing excess gas; digestive aid
Constitution: Internal body type
Cooling: Remove heat and improve strength
Demulcent: increasing mucus, slimy
Diaphoretic: Raise body temperature to
Diuretic: Increase urine output
Emmenagogue: Stimulate menstrual flow
Laxative: Stimulate bowels
Mucilaginous: Increasing mucus
Nervine: Target the nervous system, calming effect
Pungent: Warming, drying; stimulating; aromatic
Relaxant: Eases rigid and contracted tissues
Sour: Contains flavonoids; cooling
Stimulant: Quickens and enlivens the physiological activity of the body in some way
Sweet: potential carbohydrate, adding to the body
Tonic: Long-term aid (teas and other subtle remedies)
Unctuous: Oily, slimy
Warming: Treats weakness, cold, and inflammation
Yarrow
Achillea millefolium
Asteraceae (Daisy) family
Growth and Climate
Yarrow grows wildly in most of the United States and Canada. It is also native to Europe and Asia. It can be found in open fields and pastures and will mature as tall slender stalks with a flower head on top and many narrow, feathery leaves. Yarrow is a hardy plant with tolerance to drought. Harvest leaves and flowers when in bloom and use fresh for tincture or dried for tea.
Uses
Yarrow is a bitter and astringent herb. It can be used as a diuretic, and a diaphoretic. When used internally, yarrow is useful in regulating menstruation and shrinking hemorrhoids. It has also been shown to induce sweating in dry fever. Yarrow also aids in childbirth and helps to expel the afterbirth. Yarrow is known to be an immediate remedy to bloody noses and can be applied to a tissue that is then placed inside the nose. The same effect takes place on cuts and wounds. It can also be used on bruises both topically or taken internally.
History and Folklore
The Latin name comes from Achilles who is said to have used yarrow to treat wounds of soldiers. Yarrow is also associated with Chiron, a wise centaur who taught others to heal. Yarrow has also been a popular mosquito repellant and was hung in longhouses of Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest.
Indications
Yarrow is indicated for bruising and bleeding, including excessive menstrual bleeding. It can also be helpful in times of emotional fluctuation from highs to lows. Yarrow has also been known to treat sun and wind damage to the skin.
Sources:
Elpel, Thomas J. Botany in a Day: The Patterns Method of Plant Identification : an Herbal Field Guide to Plant Families of North America. HOPS Press, LLC, 2013
Thompson, Krystal. “Yarrow Monograph.” HerbRally, Herb Rally, www.herbrally.com/monographs/yarrow.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Rosemary
Rosmarinus officinales
Lamiaceae (Mint) family
Growth and Climate
Rosemary is an herb native to the Mediterranean region, specifically with a coastal habitat. It can grow 2 to 6 feet tall as a perennial. In the United States, rosemary is popularly grown in California as it shares the same climate as the Mediterranean. In Massachusetts it is difficult to over-winter rosemary and is often an annual in this region. It is recommended to grow rosemary from cuttings rather than seed. Take care to not overwater. To harvest, cut off branching twigs and remove leaves.
Uses
For medicinal purposes, rosemary leaves and essential oils are typically preferred. Rosemary contains flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoid bitters. It is warming and stimulating to the body, targeting the blood organs: liver, heart, lungs, spleen and kidneys. Rosemary can be effective at unclogging stagnant fluids in the cardiovascular system. This multi-purpose herb can also stimulate the metabolism by enhancing burning and consumption of blood sugars and fats. The oils can be used on the skin to increase circulation. It also has been used as a wound remedy and has antiseptic properties.
History and Folklore
Rosemary has a long history in Mediterranean medicinal practices. In western herbalism, it is regarded as a central component of any Materia Medica. It was regarded as an herb for remembrance and therefore has been worn in crowns by students. Rosemary is also regarded as a symbol for love and loyalty. During the Renaissance, rosemary was an emblem for fidelity. Rudolf Steiner taught that rosemary increased the sense of selfhood.
Indications
Rosemary is indicated for cold sluggish livers and a slow digestion. In addition rosemary is suggested for people with a yellow color and low energy. Rosemary should be used with caution in people with high blood pressure, as well as those who have nervous tendencies.
Sources:
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Johnson, Rebecca, Steven Foster, Tieraona Low Dog & David Kiefer. National Geographic Guide to Medicinal Herbs, National Geographic Society, 2012.
Burdock
Arctium lappa
Asteraceae (Daisy) family
Growth and Climate
Burdock is a biennial (two-year life cycle) with a long tap root that is edible. In the first year, burdock has large leaves close to the ground that are deep green and fuzzy. The second year, burdock sends up a flower stalk to set its seed before it dies. The root is harvested in the first year in spring while the energy still resides in the root. Burdock can be found across the Americas and Europe. It has also been known to be cultivated in Japan.
Uses
Burdock root is widely known as a blood and liver purifier. Burdock is useful in stimulating the digestive tract which increases bile production leading to better absorption of fats and oils in the small intestine and overall improved digestive health. Burdock can be used in cases of hormone imbalance due to lack of oils to transfer them throughout the body. As burdock targets the liver to improve oil absorption, it can be helpful in addressing those issues. The most significant aspect of Burdock is its effect on the skin through interacting with the liver and blood.
History and Folklore
Burdock was not in common use (on record) until the eighteenth century when it came into practices as a diuretic and blood purifier. However, it was still not widely used until the twentieth century. The brown burs associated with burdock make it suitable as an American Indian bear medicine. This is furthered through its Latin name “arctium” which stems from the Greek word for bear, “arctos”.
Indications
Burdock is indicated for dry or atrophic conditions where more secretion is required. It is also associated with dry, scaly skin conditions such as eczema, dandruff, rashes, measles, or psoriasis. Overall, burdock is indicated in folks who have been suffering from long-term, chronic illness as it can help restore the “primal blueprint of health” (Wood).
Sources:
Elpel, Thomas J. Botany in a Day: The Patterns Method of Plant Identification : an Herbal Field Guide to Plant Families of North America. HOPS Press, LLC, 2013
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Mugwort
Artemisia vulgaris
Asteraceae (Daisy) family
Growth and Climate
Mugwort grows wildly in temperate climates. It is related to other artemisia such as wormwood, tarragon, and sagebrush. Mugwort is drought tolerant and prefers to grow in dry or slightly moist soil. It matures as tall leafy stalks with a dark green-purple hue. It is now considered an invasive weed by some in some areas.
Uses
The bitterness of Mugwort stimulates digestion and bile secretion from the liver. Mugwort is also slightly stimulating to the nervous system, lending itself to reducing tension, increasing circulation in muscles and nerves. A bitter tea made from mugwort can be used as a digestive aid. Mugwort has also traditionally been used to induce menstruation. It has the effect of warming the uterus to move stagnant blood that causes cramps and pain, and regulates hormone levels.
History and Folklore
Mugwort is an ancient medicine from several different traditions. It is widely seen as a medicine of Venus, symbolizing the feminine. Its name, Artemisia comes, from the goddess Artemis. Artemis is the goddess of the moon and as mugwort shines in the moonlight it is associated with dreams and sleep.
Indications
Mugwort is particularly indicated when there is history of abuse, poverty, obstetric injury, scar tissue from abortion, or difficult pregnancies in women. Generally, it is “restorative to the injured female nature” (Wood). Mugwort is particularly indicated for people who experience strong pains and cramping at the beginning of menstruation, and/or profuse bleeding.
Sources:
Elpel, Thomas J. Botany in a Day: The Patterns Method of Plant Identification : an Herbal Field Guide to Plant Families of North America. HOPS Press, LLC, 2013
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Wormwood
Artemisia absinthium
Asteraceae (Daisy) family
Growth and Climate
Wormwood is a native pioneer plant to most of Europe and Asia but is now naturalized in North America as well. It is well suited to grow in old pastures and around broken foundations and walls.
Uses
One of the most historic uses of wormwood has been as a digestive bitter. This is explained by the extremely bitter taste and smell. Wormwood generally is helpful in relieving heartburn, indigestion, gastritis, or liver congestion. It can also be curative for jaundice. There also has been evidence of wormwood treating hopelessness and chronic conditions. It can be taken internally and used externally as a poultice on scars for example. Today, wormwood is seen as targeting the muscle and skeletal system.
History and Folklore
Wormwood is an ancient medicine that was particularly important in medieval European Materia Medica. Wormwood was traditionally served as a tea with honey in it to clean out the stomach. There is also folklore about Mars using wormwood in encounters with weak creatures.
Indications
Wormwood is indicated in cases of bruises, sprains, torn ligaments, broken bones, and arthritis. It is also indicated in coldness or depression of the autonomic nervous system which is emblematic of weak vital forces such as digestion.
Sources:
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Garlic
Allium sativum
Liliaceae (Lily) family
Growth and Climate
Garlic is well suited to any cultivated soil for other vegetables. Garlic can be grown from planting individual bulbs and must have full sun. Garlic should be planted in the fall after harvest to be harvested in the following summer. In colder, more extreme climates garlic can be planted in the spring once the ground unfreezes.
Uses
Garlic contains Sulphur compounds, B vitamins, and minerals. The strong smell of garlic comes from the sulphureous alliin compounds which are detoxifying, antimicrobial, and stimulating. Garlic increases the production of mucus and stimulates the internal metabolism. Unlike antibiotics, garlic will target foreign bacteria while supporting beneficial bacteria. Garlic is both anabolic and catabolic which means it cleans out waste while also promoting bacteria and new tissue growth. Raw garlic is the most potent but dried or cooked garlic is still effective.
History and Folklore
Garlic is one of the most ancient herbs and is documented as being used in ancient Sumeria. It continues to be used in folk medicine in Iraq. It was known as poor man’s treacle in English folk medicine and also is significant in Ayurvedic medicine as it contains five of the six primary tastes. It is said that garlic was fed to the slaves building the pyramids in Egypt and was used by athletes in ancient Greece.
Indications
Garlic is warming and slightly moistening, lending itself to be useful in dry, cold conditions. Garlic is indicated for colds and flus. It is also recommended for those with weak digestion or low appetite.
Sources:
Engels, Gayle, and Josef Brinckmann. “Dandelion – American Botanical Council.” American Botanical Council, American Botanical Council, www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/109/table-of-contents/hg109-herbpro-dandelion/.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Basil
Ocimum basilicum
Lamiaceae (Mint) family
Growth and Climate
Basil is originally a tropical herb that requires plenty of sun and warmth. However, it can be grown successfully in northern climates. Basil is a water-loving herb that is typically grown as an annual in the northern climates. It can be propagated from seed or cuttings. For optimal production and growth, basil should be pruned every 3-4 weeks. Trimming the tops of the main stem will lead to a fuller and healthier plant.
Uses
Basil is excellent as removing heat toxins from the blood stream, liver, and intestines. The volatile oils present in the herb aid in opening up the skin and lungs as well as relaxing the digestive system. Basil can also stimulate both appetite and digestion. This common culinary herb contains vitamins A and C, as well as mucilage. A unique property of basil is its ability to influence the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems. It is also both a warming and cooling herb. Topically, basil can be used to treat bites and stings. It is also useful for an astringent mouthwash.
History and Folklore
Basil has long been used as a culinary and medicinal herb. It is considered to originate from Asia, specifically the Indian sub-continent. Holy basil, or tulsi (Ocimum sanctum) is sacred in India and is thought to be a manifestation of the Hindu goddess Tulasi and is a symbol of love. The term basilicum stems from the Greek word for king or royal and the smell was thought to be fit for a king’s home. In India and the Middle East, basil is traditionally used to detoxify from excessive cannabis use.
Indications
The detoxifying properties of basil lend itself to be an effective aid against respiratory colds and flus. It is also helpful in relieving headaches from sinus inflammation. Basil has also been used to treat both insomnia and drowsiness in the morning.
Sources:
Adams, James, et al. “Basil.” Basil: An Herb Society of America Guide, Herb Society of America, 2003, www.herbsociety.org/file_download/inline/c2cd2efa-f150-4aac-9c7b-f10a0ccaf889.
“Basil Monograph.” The Botanical Engineer, 30 Mar. 2019, thebotanicalengineer.com/2018/07/21/herbal-monographs/.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Parsley
Petroselinum crispum (also known as P. sativum)
Apiaceae (Carrot) family
Growth and Climate
Full grown parsley is typically 12-15” high and 12” in diameter. It is hardy and can withstand frost and cold temperatures, even in the northern climate. Seeds can be sown in the early spring after the ground thaws one quarter inch down. Germination can take up to four to six weeks. When roses are planted with parsley, the roses tend to have a stronger scent and more vitality. Tomatoes also make good companion plants. Parsley is biennial, going to seed in its second season. Harvest repeatedly at the base of the plant. Eat fresh or freeze in ice cube trays or plastic bags.
Uses
Parsley is most heavily used to treat kidney and urinary tract infections and ailments. This herb proves effective against UTIs and bladder infections as well as kidney stones. Parsley is generally recognized to improve flow and unstop blockages in multiple systems including blood, lymph, sweat, urine, stool, and menstrual blood. When stewed in lard, parsley can also be an effective topical ointment for erysipelas, inflammation, eczema, and acne.
History and Folklore
Parsley is native to southeastern Europe and western Asia. It became a popular culinary herb under the Roman empire. Both the Romans and the Greeks viewed parsley as a signifier of death and was seen as a bad omen at times. Petroselinum comes from the Greek meaning “celery of the rocks” because rocks were symbolic for breaking kidney stones. Parsley was also traditionally used to freshen breath, a practice still in use today. Now, parsley is used widely in Middle Eastern, European, and American dishes.
Indications
Parsley is a warming herb and is indicated for weak, anemic constitutions. It is also indicated for seasonal allergies affecting the respiratory system. As mentioned above, parsley can be instrumental in the kidneys and bladder as well as the liver and digestive system.
Sources:
Brobst, Joyce E. “Essential Facts For Parsley.” Herb Society of America, Herb Society of America, 2012, herbsocietyorg.presencehost.net/file_download/inline/140a12b8-0fe0-4a52-ac2c-2b61ea6e786a.
Engels, Gayle, and Josef Brinckmann. “Dandelion – American Botanical Council.” American Botanical Council, American Botanical Council, www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/109/table-of-contents/hg109-herbpro-dandelion/.
“Parsley.” Our Herb Garden, 17 Mar. 2013, www.ourherbgarden.com/herb-history/parsley.html.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.
Stinging Nettle
Urtica dioica
Urticaceae (Nettle) family
Growth and Climate
Stinging nettle is native to Europe and Asia although is now naturalized globally. It is commonly found growing around septic systems, outhouses and manure piles. This demonstrates nettle’s ability to process protein. Stinging nettles should be harvested as young shoots in the spring for medicine and food. Tincture fresh leaves and use dried for teas. It is important to tincture or dry (freeze drying is best) immediately after harvesting to preserve the formic acid. Nettles have stinging hairs all along their stem and leaves that cause a burning sensation. Use care when harvesting.
Uses
Nettles are extremely protein rich and will improve protein pathways including digestion, immune response, liver metabolism, skin reactions, and kidney elimination. This fundamental herb is also rich in minerals and vitamins, making it a powerful nutritive tonic, especially for iron deficiency in pregnancy. It can also be effective in reducing allergic reactions to proteins by eliminating mucus on membranes resulting from allergy. Nettles can help the liver build blood proteins, keeping the plasma in the blood vessels, reducing low blood pressure. The high affinity for processing proteins means nettles are useful in addressing gout, arthritis, muscular soreness, tissue acidity, and kidney disease. Nettles are widely known in the herbal community as an effective method of getting people off of dialysis. Nettles also have several other uses including strengthening the pelvic and thigh muscles, and activating the thyroid, kidneys, menstrual cycle, hormones, nerves, and muscles.
History and Folklore
The Latin name Urtica, stems from urere which means to burn. Roman troops fighting in northern climates would use the stinging of nettles to generate more heat in the winter. Similarly, during medieval times in Europe, bunches of stinging nettles were used on arthritic joints to relieve pain.
Indications
Stinging nettles is indicated in constitutions with low blood pressure and loss of hair and hair color, or poor circulation of blood to the head. It is also indicated with dull senses, mucus in
stool, distention and swelling of the kidneys, atrophy and paralysis of muscles, and hypothyroid.
Sources:
Engels, Gayle, and Josef Brinckmann. “Dandelion – American Botanical Council.” American Botanical Council, American Botanical Council, www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbalgram/issues/109/table-of-contents/hg109-herbpro-dandelion/.
Wood, Matthew. The Earthwise Herbal Volume I, North Atlantic Books, 2008.