Virginia Waterleaf – edible and medicinal

Virginia Waterleaf

I love seeing virginia waterleaf coming up because I know that spring is here and winter is behind me. Here in central Minnesota, it is one of the first spring ephemeral plants to emerge from the cold ground. Sam Thayer calls it an “optional ephemeral” because it is abundant in the spring, but becomes sparse in the summer months.

Virginia waterleaf in spring

Virginia Waterleaf emerging from under the dead leaves in early April.


Hydrophyllum virginianum

The generic name, Hydrophyllum, is Greek for “water leaf”. Hydro is from hudor or hydor, which is “water”, and phyllum is from phullon or phyllon, which is “leaf”. This name also refers to its wetland habitats. The specific epithet, virginianum, is Latin for “of Virginia”, where it was first studied.


You can easily identify virginia waterleaf in the spring because of the distinctly spotted leaves, giving it the appearance that it is stained by water drops. Virginia waterleaf is one of the most prolific varieties, and it flourishes far past Virginia into areas such as Minnesota. 

Virginia waterleaf is a herbaceous perennial in early summer. It can be found mainly east of the Mississippi River, but it has western cousins, the California waterleaf (Hydrophyllum occidentale) and the Pacific waterleaf (Hydrophyllum tenuipes).

Although this plant is fairly competitive with other plants, there are some areas, such as New Hampshire in which this is becoming endangered.

Bees and white-tailed deer love this plant for gathering nectar and eating.

Other common names for this species are Brook Flower, Burr Flower, Eastern Waterleaf, Indian Salad, John’s Cabbage, Shawanese Lettuce, Shawnee Lettuce, Shawnee Salad, Virginian Waterleaf, and Waterleaf.

Habitat

Virginia waterleaf can be found growing in wet, wooded areas. It prefers shade. It likes a a moist humus-rich soil. Slugs are particularly fond of this plant and will soon destroy it if given a chance

The plant grows in a clump like format with limited spread. The root pattern is rhizomatous with underground stems sending roots and shoots along their length. The clumps can easily be propagated in the spring.

This plant is considered a nice groundcover by many gardeners.

Plant Features

In early spring, Virginia waterleaf can be easily identified by the spots on the leaves, appearing to be waterdrops, hence the name. The leaves are deeply lobed, with jagged edges, and get darker as the plant matures.

It flowers in May to early June and seeds in July and August, lasting 3-4 weeks. The flowers form in dense clusters and are are white to dark violet in color.

virginia waterleaf

Virginia Waterleaf in bloom
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

The leaves are alternate with the stems being slightly jointed. The stem is covered with dense, stiff hairs. Where the plant divides, the stem is more red or purple in color. The plants get about 2 feet tall.

Virginia Waterleaf – the leaves
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

Edible

Both the Native Americans and the early European settlers used this plant.

Known also as Indian Salad, the leaves taste a bit like parsley and are good in salads this time of year or in soups as a potherb.  The leaves are also good fried in fat or oil when they are tougher.

The leaves can be eaten when young. They have a rather bland taste and are a nice addition to any leafy salad. The leaves do have a slightly fuzzy texture, but when mixed with other greens, you don’t notice it. The older leaves can be eaten as well, and are more like spinach. According to Sam Thayer, they are to be eaten like most greens, used as a side dish or snack, not a main dish.

The flowers and flower buds can be eaten. Add them to a salad for decoration and to eat! The buds are similar to the raabs of garlic mustard and bittercress.  Mix them with the leaves and some other greens and they make a fun, textural addition to the salad.

The leaves and flowers can be eaten raw or cooked. When cooking, it is recommended to boil twice with fresh water to remove some of the bitterness. The cooked leaves and shoots can be served with salt, pepper, butter, or vinegar. The leaves and shoots are best eaten before the flowers emerge.

Some Native American tribes fed the roots to their ponies to fatten them and to shine up their hair.

Medicinal Properties

Minnesota herbalist Matthew Alfs says virginia waterleaf is a first-rate astringent and sadly ignored by herbalists. He says it is his go-to remedy for those with oral sores.

A tea made from the roots as an astringent, can be used in the treatment of diarrhea, dysentery etc. A decoction, or the chewed root, has been used as a wash for cracked lips and sore mouths.

Historically, it was used for pain. The Menominee used the roots for chest pain and the Ojibwe used it for back pain.

Using this plant in tea form is the most common usage, but it can also be made into a tincture. I prefer the tincture form because it has a longer shelf life.

Virginia waterleaf tincture

I use the entire plant to make a tincture. This way I get the whole plant’s synergy into my medicinal liquid extract.

I suggest you keep a watch for this hidden little gem of a plant. In the early spring, take a nibble on a leaf and see what you think. Or just admire the ornamental flowers sticking up above the stems. Either way, I think you’ll find that this plant has a personality all its own!


Resources

Thayer, Samual (2006). The Forager’s Harvest: A Guide to Identifying, Harvesting and Preparing Edible Wild Plants. Birchwood, WI: Forager’s Harvest

Alfs, Matthew (2013). Edible and Medicinal Wild Plants of the Midwest. New Brighton, MN: Old Theology Book House

http://www.naturalmedicinalherbs.net/herbs/h/hydrophyllum-virginianum=virginia-waterleaf.php

http://www.wildfoodies.org/EasternWaterleaf.htm

https://pfaf.org/user/Plant.aspx?LatinName=Hydrophyllum+virginianum

https://practicalplants.org/wiki/Hydrophyllum_virginianum

https://www.ediblewildfood.com/virginia-waterleaf.aspx

http://www.illinoiswildflowers.info/woodland/plants/va_waterleaf.htm

https://wildfoodgirl.com/2015/fun-with-wild-waterleaf/

https://foragerchef.com/virginia-waterleaf/

http://magicalchildhood.com/life/2017/05/10/31-wonderful-wild-edible-foods-to-forage-in-may/

https://indiananativeplants.org/native-plants/gordon-mitchell-articles/

Creeping Charlie – aka ground ivy – edible and medicinal

Creeping Charlie – not so creepy

Glechoma hederacea

 

creeping charlie
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

Earth Crown

Creeping Charlie, also known as ground ivy, has had a bad rap for quite some time. Because it “creeps” up in lawns and yards, in places where it is not wanted, it has become a nuisance for many people. Once it is established, it is very hard to get rid of.

Creeping charlie is native to Europe. European settlers brought it to North America for plant medicine and as a ground cover. It grows rapidly from seeds and spreads via stolons (creeping stems). You can find it growing in moist, shady areas.

One of my herb mentors, Lise Wolff, said “Perhaps we should restore it to its original Latin name, Corona terrae; ‘Earth Crown,’ as it is truly like a garland over the ground.”

 

creeping charlie
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

It’s edible!

This plant is part of the mint (Lamiaceae) family. The leaves have a mint-like flavor and can be tossed into salads to add extra flavor. Create a seasoning salt to put on pastas or meat dishes.

Just like spinach, the leaves can be sauteed and added to omelets, soups, rice, etc. Pair them up with dandelions and make a wild salad! Use it for seasoning meats or vegetables. It can also be found in beer recipes – check this one out, Belgium Wild Beer!

Medicinal uses

The use of this plant dates back to the first century where it was considered a panacea (cure-all). The medicinal uses for Glechoma hederacea, or creeping charlie, are as extensive as the plant itself. The list includes congestive headaches, toothache, indigestion, bloating, gas, earaches, sore throats, bronchitis, chest colds and even depression.

It also has an affinity for ear issues, such as tinnitus.  Matthew Wood tells of his use of ground ivy in a case of chronic bronchitis believed to have originated years before in a middle ear infection. 

Creeping charlie is becoming more well known for its ability to draw out heavy metals. It has historically been used to help with “Painter’s colic,” a variety of lead poisoning resulting from constant exposure to leaded paints. A number of fellow herbalists use it for mercury poisoning that comes from cavity fillings.

Here is a video from Spiraea Herbs, “Charlie Ain’t All Bad“, that goes over more benefits of ground ivy, or creeping charlie.

I wildcraft creeping charlie and make a tincture out of it. This way I can store it for a long time and have it available when needed. I pick the top 75% of the plant and use the stems, leaves and flowers.

Don’t forget the bees

Creeping Charlie makes an excellent nectar for the bees and other pollinators, along with other spring flowers.  Look closely and you’ll see the busy little bees!

creeping charlie and bee
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

References

 

Motherwort – its Uses & Benefits

Freakin’ out?  Upset?  Worried about what might happen? Have PMS?  High blood pressure?

You might just need some Motherwort!

Motherwort may be just a weed to most, but it has many uses and benefits.  Hidden among the other green plants, it thrives and flourishes.  If you just look for it, you will find it.  If you don’t see it, you’re not looking hard enough, as it can get to ten feet tall in places!

motherwort
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

It’s botanical name is Leonurus cardiaca, says a lot right there.  Leonurus meaning lion-hearted or of the lion.  Motherwort is a strong and robust plant, thriving in most conditions.  This most likely occurs, because it is in the mint family, making it hardy and easy to grow.

Cardiaca, of the heart, shows that motherwort has a large affinity for the cardiovascular system and has been used for centuries for that purpose.

The common name, motherwort, also has meaning.   With wort meaning “herb”, we get “Mother’s Herb”.  This makes it a wonderful remedy for those mothers with anxiety or high stress, and for those who may be worries about their own mother.

motherwort young
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

Uses

  • Herbal vinegar – Put in jar, fill with apple cider vinegar and let sit.  Goes well in soups, stews, salad dressings, etc.
  • Tincture – I prefer to fresh plant material, but one can also use dried.  Fill a jar with fresh plant material and then cover with grain alcohol (I use vodka).  Let sit for 4-6 weeks and then strain.
  • Tonic – Place plant material in water and let sit, like overnight.  Strain and drink.
  • Tea – Steep some leaves in hot water.  But keep in mind, motherwort is a bitter, so it doesn’t make the best tasting tea.  Some good partners would be peppermint, chamomile, hibiscus, red clover to help mediate the flavor.
  • Fomentation – It is similar to a poultice.  You take some plant material, crush it up and let it steep in some hot water.  Then take a cloth and soak up some of the liquid.  Place it on the body where there is cramping or pain.
  • Wine? – yes, the Japanese use motherwort to make a wine or brew.  Here is a simple recipe if you are inclined to give it a try!
motherwort

Benefits

Motherwort is loaded with many vitamins and minerals, the reason it can help and support our bodies in so many ways.

Heart

Motherwort is wonderful for the heart and cardiovascular system.  It seems to work even better when paired with a tincture of hawthorn.  It may even help those with high blood pressure and heart palpitations.

It is also quite useful for all heart conditions associated with anxiety and tension.

On the emotional side, motherwort may even help with heartache.  Use in conjunction with linden or lemon balm to help lift one’s mood and spirits.

motherwort
Photo by Pam Broekemeier

Nervous System

This herb is also good for the nervous system in helping calm and relax, especially in stressful situations. Motherwort seems to help alleviate tension and irritability.

There is no better Herb to drive Melancholly Vapors from the Heart, to strengthen it, and make a merry cheerful blith soul.

Nicholas Culpeper, The English Physician – 1652

Culpepper also classified motherwort among the “loosening medicines,” i.e. those “having a relaxant effect on muscles, tendons, ligaments, and membranes…”

Female Issues

From the name, we know that motherwort is also the herb for women.  It helps with PMS, fertility, painful menstruation, hot flashes, lack of menses and delayed menstruation.  By toning the uterus, it helps to prevent cramping.

**Do not use during pregnancy!

Other Benefits

Motherwort also helps those in pain from MS, chronic fatigue, fibromyalgia and other nerve conditions.

It may also help with intermittent fever diseases such as typhoid, and respiratory ailments, such as bronchitis, asthma, coughing and wheezing.

This herb also supports the kidneys, digestion and helps with night sweats.

motherwort
Motherwort Decor

Robert Whelan says “I have come to develop a great deal of respect for how much Motherwort can shift a stuck pattern of tension in the heart or in the smooth tissue of the womb. I think that if it is used wisely for the right person it can be a profoundly relaxing and healing herb.”

“Statements herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to treat or diagnose any disease or health condition. It is also recommended that patients check with their doctors before taking herbs, to ensure that there are no contraindications with prescription medications.”

Sources

https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/benefits-of-motherwort.html

https://rowanandsage.com/blog/2018/21/9/plant-profile-motherwort

https://www.wildnesswithinliving.com/blog/2016/7/22/motherwort

http://www.susunweed.com/herbal_ezine/July08/wisewoman.htm

http://www.susunweed.com/Article_Motherwort.htm

https://www.rebeccasherbs.com/pages/herb-article-br-motherwort

eclecticschoolofherbalmedicine.com/motherwort/

Varicose Veins – finding natural support

Our Aging Bodies

Varicose veins are part of getting older for some of us.  As our bodies start taking the tole of our past years, it starts to show physically.  You could say that is a sign of learned knowledge.  But, for most of us, we would rather not show so many signs of getting older.

For now, lets take a look at one physical feature that many people are concerned about, and those are varicose veins.  We’ll look at what they are, how they come to be and some natural ways one can try to subdue them.

What are Varicose Veins?

Varicose veins are enlarged veins that have pushed themselves outward, just below the skin.  They are most commonly found on the legs and feet, yet can affect any vein in the body.

varicose veins

Example of varicose veins

Most are harmless.  They are just a cosmetic issue for some people.

For some, varicose veins can be painful or sore. They can also cause issues for blood circulation.  That can bring on swollen ankles, itchy skin and achy limbs.

What Causes Varicose Veins

Veins are continually working against the forces of gravity as they push blood back to the heart.  Veins must be kept healthy and strong to maintain this level of work.

veins

How veins work

There are “valves” in the veins that push the blood back to the heart.  Valves and muscles work together to get the job done.  So if the muscles weaken, so do the valves.

As the valves and muscles weaken, blood starts to pool in these areas, which leads to varicose veins.

A variety of things can cause the weakening of valves and muscles.  Some of those include obesity, being sedentary (which causes muscles to weaken), standing for a long period of time, pregnancy, menopause, aging, genetics and walking.

Poor blood circulation is also key in varicose veins, and a number of other health issues.  Lack of concentration and low energy levels can also be due to poor blood circulation.  Here is an article from The Lost Herbs, DIY Lost Circulation Booster, that can shed more light on this topic and a way to correct the issue.

 

Symptoms

The primary symptom of varicose veins is visibility.  They become swollen, misshapen veins on ones legs.  Some people will also have pain, heaviness and achiness near these veins.

Swelling can also occur in the lower legs and ankles after standing for periods of time.

In severe cases, the veins can bleed and ulcers may form.

Those Affected by Varicose Veins

According to WebMD, varicose veins can sometimes be genetic, and women are twice as likely to develop them over men.

About 23% of Americans are affected in some way.

Dealing with Varicose Veins

There are a number of things a person can do to help control and lessen the issue.  The Mayo Clinic suggests exercise, elevating ones legs and wearing compression stockings.

Also, losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight can help minimize or prevent them as well.

Surgery is an option for those where lifestyle changes aren’t improving the condition or there is just too much pain.  More information on surgical procedures can be found here.

Using herbs and plants is another way to deal with this issue.

 

VIDEO: Varicose Veins – What you need to know

Herbal Healing

One can look to herbs and plants to help with varicose veins in a natural way.

A number of herbs that can be used to minimize the effects of varicose veins are known as astringents.  They help by tightening the tissues and getting them back to their original state, as best they can.

Some of these herbs include:

Helichrysum

Helichrysum

Helichrysum

(helichrysum italicum) is named after the golden yellow flowers of the plant, and comes from the Greek words helios meaning sun and chrysos meaning gold.  A common name for it is Immortelle.

Helichrysum has many medicinal properties and is known for its restorative and rejuvenating properties.  It helps heal scars and supports cell growth by encouraging the recycling of dead cells and stimulating production of new ones.

This yellow flower can also be used to help with inflammation and clears blood clots by liquefying/thinning them.

Helichrysum is an anti-oxidant as well.

Horse Chestnut

Horse Chestnut

Horse Chestnut

(aesculus hippocastanum), also known as buckeye in some parts, or conker tree in Europe.

Horse Chestnut supports blood circulation, thus helping those with varicose veins.  As an astringent, it helps to tone vein walls which, when slack or distended, may become varicose, hemorrhoidal or otherwise problematic.

Aescin, a constituent found in horse chestnuts, performs an antioxidant function and has a general vasoprotective role by protecting collagen and elastin (the two chief proteins that form the structure of veins).  There are multiple clinical studies showing that horse chestnut helps in reducing inflammation, alleviating circulatory problems affecting the legs and reducing varicose veins. 

You can find our more about how horse chestnuts help with varicose veins in this article, “How to Treat Varicose Veins with Chestnuts“. 

White Oak

White Oak

White Oak

(quercus alba) is a tree native to North America and was used by Native Americans for many conditions.  Throughout history, it has been known as a symbol of strength and endurance.

White oak is an astringent, due to its high level of tannins, and helps with inflammation and skin conditions, such as varicose veins.

It is also an antiseptic, so helps control infection internally and externally.

White oak also contains quercetin, which helps in strengthening the capillaries and veins.

Did you know you can grind the acorns into a flour?  Pretty cool!

Willow

Willow

Willow bark

(Salix alba) has been used medicinally for over 5000 years.  It is native to Europe and Central Asia.

The bark is known as being the original pain reliever because it contains salacin, which the body converts to salicylic acid.  Thus if helps reduce fevers, pain and inflammation.  It takes a little longer to work, but lasts much longer then aspirin and has less side gastronomic side effects due to the large amounts of tannins that protect the stomach.

The inner and outer barks have slightly different concentrations of compounds for different ailments.

Willow bark’s high concentration of antioxidants make it very beneficial for the health of the skin.  It increases blood flow to the skin, which helps to reduce wrinkles and age marks.

witch hazel

witch hazel

Witch Hazel

(Hamamelis virginiana)  is a fairly common shrub found in North America.  Native Americans used it to help treat skin irritations and tumors.

Witch hazel is a great skin treatment because of its astringent properties. It helps with stretch marks, wrinkles, acne, hemorrhoids and varicose veins.  It is also good for itchy skin when dealing with chickenpox, eczema, bug bites and poison ivy.

Witch hazel’s ant-inflammatory properties also make it a go-to for diaper rash and sunburns.  Regular application helps in healing the damaged skin quicker.

Daily use of witch hazel helps to kill bacteria living on the skin and supports cell growth.  It also helps to remove excess oil from the skin.

Yarrow

Yarrow

Yarrow

(Achillea millefolium) originated in Europe.  It can now be found  in many parts of North America.  The Greeks used yarrow over 3000 years ago to treat wounds.  The genus name, Achillea, honors the Greek hero Achilles; who reportedly used yarrow for himself and for his soldiers as a treatment for battle wounds.  Yarrow was also commonly used during the Civil War to stop wounds from bleeding.

When used topically, yarrow is wonderful for helping with skin issues, such as rashes, hemorrhoids, varicose veins or broken wounds.  It supports blood circulation, reduces blood stagnation and helps to tone vein walls with its astringent properties.

Herbal Products or DIY

One can make their own creams or ointments to help with varicose veins by using some of the herbs mentioned above.  One place to purchase these herbs is at Mountain Rose Herbs.

If one can’t or doesn’t have the time to make a cream or ointment, I offer a wonderful cream for varicose veins that not only helps minimize them, but softens and hydrates the skin as well.

Another way to utilize herbs in controlling or minimizing varicose veins is by using tinctures topically.  Put the tincture directly on the varicose veins and let dry on the skin, or use a cloth soaked with the tincture to lay directly on the veins for a period of time.

Using this natural method will take a little bit of time to see results, so one has to be patient.  It took years for the varicose veins to appear, so they won’t disappear overnight.

Norovirus – meet the HERBS

it’s that time of year again…

It never fails, there is always some kind of epidemic circulating in our communities during this time of year, like the norovirus.  We all know someone who is ill, and who can’t participate in all the festivities.  Bummer!

sick

A few years ago, I was out sick, big time, for the holidays, and it was not fun at all.  My stomach ached from coughing so much, and my mind was mush.  My boyfriend finally talked me in to go and see a doctor (I do hate going to see doctors).  Come to find out, I had strep throat, even though I didn’t have the normal symptoms for it.

So, how do you prevent you and your loved ones from catching any one of those dreaded, sneaky epidemics?  Education and prevention. (more…)

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