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Lamination
Mint family
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Contents:
Common Names
Parts Usually Used
Plant(s) & Culture
Where Found
Medicinal Properties Legends, Myths and Stories
Uses
Formulas or Dosages
Bibliography
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Common Names
Lousewort
Purple betony
Wood betony
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Parts Usually Used
Flowering herb
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Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Betony is a perennial plant; the hairy, unbranched or slightly branched, quadrangular
stem grows to a height of 6-24 inches. The leaves are opposite, more or less
fairy on both sides, the lower leaves oblong-cordate, the upper more lanceolate.
Spicate whorls of red-purple flowers appear above a rosette of leaves over a
long blooming period from June to August. Full sun or partial shade.
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Where Found
Found in old European gardens, damp or dry meadows, on sunny slopes, and along
forest paths.
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Medicinal Properties
Anthelmintic, astringent, carminative, diuretic, expectorant, vulnerary.
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Legends, Myths and Stories
During the Middle Ages betony was grown in monastery gardens and was believed
to ward off a host of evils, including mad dogs.
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Uses
Betony is recommended for asthma and bronchitis, as well as for heartburn. The
infusion is also popularly used for neurasthenia, neuritis, neuralgia, bladder
and kidney problems, spitting blood, and excessive sweating; regular use is
recommended for varicose veins. A strong decoction is said to be effective against
worms. The juice of the plant can be used to heal cuts, external ulcers, and
cold sores.
If you have a sprain, don't throw away the leaves boiled to make a decoction; make them into a poultice to put on the injured part. Taking 1/2 to 1 cup of the infusion a day is recommended for children who, for no apparent reason, fail to thrive.
Fresh betony leaf was believed to prevent drunkenness if chewed before a party, and, as a nightcap, an infusion is supposed to keep away bad dreams.
Betony tea is a good substitute for oriental
black tea because it is similar in flavor. Can be used daily.
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Formulas or Dosages
Infusion: use 1 to 2 tsp. per cup of water; take 1 to 2 cups during the day,
a mouthful at a time.
Decoction: use 2 tsp. with 1/2 cup water; sweeten to taste. Take 1/2 cup per day, a mouthful at a time.
