Medicine Chest of the Country People
Called the "medicine chest of the country people" by Europeans, the Elder Berry holds a deep history in folklore. Cordials and wines produced from the tree's berry have long been used as a winter tonic for warding off colds and coughs. The elder tree's dark purple berries are rich in vitamin C and bioflavanoids which nourish the body in need of immune support. Both the berries and the flowers are upper respiratory demulculents, helping to release excess mucous from the head and chest. The flowers combined with the herbs Peppermint and Yarrow are and old and effective tea remedy. Served hot, this mixture is used to assist the body in bringing on a sweat during the first stages of influenza. The lucky patient is then given a warm ginger bath and sent off to bed, speedily on the way to recovery.
The leaves of the Peppermint plant are often thought of as a simple flavoring agent, but the role this common garden herb has to play in treating colds is multifaceted. Due to excess congestion, the digestive system will often suffer. Unfortunately, this is the time we need all the nutrients we can derive from foods. Peppermint leaves have a soothing and clearing action on the stomach and intestines. A simple peppermint tea can have a powerful effect on regulating digestion. Peppermint can easily induce perspiration when it is time for a fever to break. The oil of peppermint may also be inhaled as a temporary decongestant and is often reported to relieve headaches of all kinds. Tasty and useful, the peppermint plant is an ally to all who wish to get to know it.
The botanical name for Goldenseal is Hydrastis. This word is derived from two Greek words signifying "water" and "to accomplish." The name was probably given as a reflection of this plant's strong action on the mucous membranes. Goldenseal use has experienced a steady and dramatic increase since the mid-1800s. It is used as an immune stimulant, blood purifyer, digestive bitter, and wards off infections in the body. Today it is one of the most popular herbs to increase immune resistance during the winter season. Due to its widespread use, the natural populations of Goldenseal are in grave danger. I urge consumers to consider using other immune-enhancing herbs first, and Goldenseal as a last resort.