GENERAL TIPS ON LOOKING UP MEDICINAL PLANTS:

1. Always use latin name for scientific findings, for folk uses and lore surrounding a plant, often the common name is used.

2. Specific wording helps. Example- “published scientific studies on (latin name of plant) for (ailment x).” Sometimes it helps to use a search for the plants beneficial ‘constituents’ or ‘actions.’

3. All plants are medicine and require knowledge of use. Always do your own research and take necessary precautions.

4. If on pharmaceutical medications, always check for drug interactions when using plant medicine.

5. Avenues for study / ways to discover more: Materia medica’s are great resources for plant uses and preperations. I like to search for earliest historical references, biblical references, and folk aspects of plants including magical, alchemical and spiritual traditions.

American Spikenard - Aralia Racemosa

This relatively unknown native shade perennial is completely edible and a traditional medicine used worldwide for rheumatism and as a nerve relaxant. Among mixed information, it may be an At Risk species, another great reason to get it in the ground at your house.

Planting: Native / Perennial / Shade / Possibly good for snuffing out unwanted invasives

Black Seed - Nigella Sativa

Full disclosure, the Lantern Fly took these babies out last year. I’m adding new protection levels to the mix this year and hopefully this power house of medicine can be brought back into our local habitat. Another rare and struggling species to help along, lets keep our fingers crossed!

Planting: Native / Perennial / Full Shade Understory / Well drained-Hummus rich

Burdock - Arctium Lappa

Widely consumed in Japan as Gobo, this plant is a powerful detoxifier, blood cleanser, liver & kidney supporter and a friend to our beneficial gut bacteria.

Planting: Invasive / Biennial / Sun-Shade / Disturbed Soils

Cleavers - Galium Aparine

Often considered a weed, this wonderful spring cleaner may already be in your yard. A great gentle stagnation and toxin remover through the lymphatic system.

Planting: Naturalized / Annual / Sun-Shade / Well Drained

Comfrey - Symphytum Officinale

Commonly called “knit bone” for a reason. This plant is a giver with an insane vitamin and mineral profile that your body needs and your garden loves. As a fast grower, cut fresh leaves mid-season and they break down in 48 hours and feed your plants.

Planting: Invasive / Perennial / Part Sun / Various Soil Conditions