Tuesday, December 9, 2008

Such a Botanist...

Okay, today I was sitting on the back porch of my dorm waiting for my dad to call. I was looking at the ground by the step, and I saw a plant that looked reeaally familiar. I stared at it for a moment, but the name wasn't coming to mind. So, being the curious one, I took a sample of the plant and set it by the computer so I could look it up later. I went to my MoH.
Later (about half an hour ago), I looked it up. I found out that it was Shepherd's Purse. I had always been interested in that plant, and to know that it grows by the dorm... it's simply amazing.
So what is Shepherd's Purse?
Shepherd's Purse is considered a weed. However, before you shun it and whip out the herbicide, know that it is medicinal. It does the following:
  • treats skin wounds
  • reduces swelling
  • stops bleeding, including nosebleeds
  • stops vomiting/diarrhea
  • stops/normalizes heavy menstrual flow (omigosh, she said "menstrual!!")

So, it's an amazing plant. And it's right here. I only wish I could process it into something that could be taken (in a concentrated form, like oil or something). Oh well; it's good to know that it's there. I feel like such a botanist.

1 comment:

t k noegel said...

Herbalism is fascinating.

You shouldn't have to process it into concentrated form. The ability for plants to be medicinal relies on your preparation of them. I imagine the different purposes of Shepherd's Purse depend on varying methods of prep, like poultice for swelling or tea for stomach trouble.

One of those things I'd love to really learn. =)