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Shepherd' S Purse |
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Shepherd' S Purse
SHEPHERD'S PURSE
(Capsella bursa-pastoris)
History and Folklore
Shepherd's Purse has become quite a world-citizen: it can be found in just about any patch of land, whether cultivated garden or abandoned wasteland throughout all temperate regions outside the tropics. An herb of the mustard family, Shepherds Purse has typical little white 4 petaled flowers, which turn into tiny heart-shaped pods. When the seeds are ripe they have a fiery bite that can be utilized as a 'wild pepper'. In times gone by it was a much valued remedy, but it is rarely used today. Native North Americans absorbed this herb into their material medica and adapted it to their own uses.
Medicinal Uses:
Shepherd's Purse is strongly astringent and has successfully been used as a styptic for internal and external bleeding. During World War I, when other commonly used styptics such as Ergot and Golden Seal became unavailable, Shepherd's Purse was used as a replacement, and apparently with good success. It can be used for inner bleeding e.g. from the lungs or stomach. It is also considered diuretic and anti-inflammatory and can thus be helpful in cases of bladder inflammation. Old herbals recommend it as an aid for women during menopause. Today it is still occasionally used to reduce excessive menstrual flow as well as diarrhoea and dysentery. Native Americans used it to kill and expel intestinal worms, to soothe stomach aches, cramps and dysentery and as a lotion to heal the stings of Poison Ivy. Culpeper also recommends the juice as an application for earache and tinnitus.
Magical Uses:
Shepherds Purse was used as a protective charm against bleeding. The seeds were used as an amulet for teething children. Eating the seeds of the first three Shepherd's Purse plants one sees is said to protect against all manner of diseases for the rest of the year.
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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