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Quassia Root Chips |
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Quassia Root Chips
QUASSIA ROOT CHIPS
(Picrasma excelsa)
History and Folklore
Quassia is probably the only plant named in honour of a slave, at least according to legend: Back in Suriname during the 18th century intermittent fevers were a common plague. But rumour had it that a slave called Quassia had a secred remedy for this terribly debilitating disease. A Swede by the name of Daniel Rolander, managed to buy the slave's secret and learnt which plant he used for his cure: it was a tree of the Simaruba family. However, later the name became associated with two other species of Simaruba, Picrasma excelsa and Quassia amara, which are now both sold as Quassia and in time became official in the pharmacopoeias of Britain, Germany and the US.
Medicinal Uses:
Quassia is one of the most intensely bitter herbs, yet it contains no tannin. Originally used for fevers its use shifted to the treatment of digestive problems. Small doses of Quassia stimulate the flow of gastric juices as well as liver and gall bladder activity. It can be used to stimulate the appetite or to aid digestion especially in cases of dyspepsia. In the West Indies, where the tree is at home, natives carve cups from the wood and fill them with water. This is left to infuse long enough for the water to absorb the bitter principles from the wood. It is used as a remedy for indigestion or lack of appetite. Administered as an enema it was also used as a worming agent. An external application of the decoction is used to treat lice and to dispel flies.
CAUTION
Large doses can irritate the stomach and cause vomiting. Do not use during pregnancy and do not administer to small children.
Magical Uses:
Most sources mention Quassia to be used for love-'to draw and maintain', as it is often put. Its use as an insecticide and vermifuge suggests powers to ward off evil spirits.
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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