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Prickly Ash Bark |
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Prickly Ash Bark
PRICKLY ASH BARK
(Zanthoxylum americanum)
History and Folklore
Although the leaves of Prickly Ash do somewhat resemble those of the common Ash, the two are not related. Prickly Ash is a North American member of the Rutacae, and shares family ties with the citrus trees. In fact, the small dark berries and leaves have an aromatic, lemony scent, which Native American boys and men liked to use as perfume. Prickly Ash grows in the North and North-western United States. At one point many different Native tribes considered it a highly valuable medicinal plant. The new settlers also learned to appreciate its medicinal virtues and between 1820 and 1926 even gave it a place of honour in the official pharmacopoeia. Prickly Ash's other vernacular name is Toothache Tree.
Medicinal Uses:
Prickly Ash can perhaps best be described as a stimulant as it brings warmth to the body by stimulating the circulation. It has a dilating effect on the blood vessels, which can be employed in diseases that are marked by poor circulation, such as Raynaud's syndrome and Claudicatio intermittens, as well as for rheumatism and arthritis, where improved circulation increases the oxygen and nutrient supply to aching joints, while helping to flush out metabolic waste materials. It seems Prickly Ash stimulates the glandular system to increase secretion - it stimulates the flow of saliva, of gastric juices and probably those of the liver and gall bladder as well. It also has a diuretic effect on the kidneys and increases the amount of urine secreted. It tones the digestive system and has a marked effect on flatulent dyspepsia, which may be due to insufficient gastric juices or the inability to digest certain foods. Prickly Ash can be combined with other herbs to enhance their efficacy by adding its stimulant effect. In Native American medicine it was also used to treat toothache as well as bronchial afflictions.
CAUTION
Do not use during pregnancy.
Magical Uses:
Not much is known about how Native Americans used this herb magically, except that it was employed in some shamanic healing rites and that it was given to dogs to sharpen their senses for the hunt. This stimulating effect can kindle the inner fire and may be used for initiation rituals or to heighten the acuity of the senses. The hot nature of this herb can also be utilized for love and lust charms.
BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.
Star Child’s range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.
USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.
CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one’s own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.
If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.
Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother’s milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don’t risk regret.
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