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Soapwort |
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Soapwort
SOAPWORT
(Saponaria officinalis)
History and Folklore
Soapwort is a pretty little wild flower of the Carnation family that commonly grows in wet meadows and ditches. It is native to Europe and Britain. It came to the United States with the first settlers, who may have used it as a soap plant. It quickly spread and naturalized in its new habitat. Soapwort contains saponins, which in conjunction with water create a soft, gentle lather when. This property was widely used in times gone by, not just as a ready soap supply for washing clothes, but also as a particularly gentle natural shampoo for dry, easily breaking hair. Sheep farmers in the Alps also used it to wash their sheep prior to sheering. Today Soapwort is used in some cosmetics, such as soaps and shampoos, and as a particularly gentle agent for restoring old and fragile textiles.
Medicinal Uses:
This herb is no longer used internally in herbal medicine due to the poisonous nature of saponins, which can destroy red blood cells. In the past it was used as an expectorant, laxative and cholagogue. It was also used for syphilis and other venereal diseases. Externally it may be used as a shampoo for fragile hair or as a wash for bruises and afflictions of the skin.
CAUTION
Internal use not recommended. Avoid during pregnancy.
Magical Uses:
Soapwort is not noted for any particular magical uses, but it could be employed as cleansing herb to add to a ritual bath or to wash ceremonial apparel.
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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