Thursday, February 2, 2012

Herbalism: Butterbur

Herb of the day: Butterbur
(Petasites officinalis)



Native to Europe, this herb was used in the middle ages to treat the 'Black Death.' Grows in very wet soil and its leaves look similar to Rhubarb.


USES:
Headaches, asthma, cough, fever, hay fever, common cold, stomachache, arthritis, stress, nervousness, allergies, urinary tract, kidney stones.
Can also be used externally for wounds, and swellings.

Aromatherapy: The leaves are sweet smelling, and the scent is very calming. Known to drive off nightmares and help with sleep disorders.


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