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Southernwood |
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Southernwood
SOUTHERNWOOD
(Artemisia abrotanum)
History and Folklore
Southernwood is a soft, feathery and dainty species of Artemisia, a relative of the more robust Wormwood and Mugwort. Its original homelands are the southern parts of Europe. It is common throughout the Mediterranean region and was well known to the ancients. When it arrived in northern Europe it was named 'Southern Wormwood', which in time became shortened to Southernwood. Its common names, such as 'Lad's Love, Kiss-me-once-and-go, Maid's Love and Old Man's Love all refer to its reported use in love magic. According to Culpeper, the ashes mixed with oil were supposed to promote the growth of hair. The strongly aromatic leaves are insect repellent. Southernwood is often included in herbal moth-balls and the French even call the herb 'Garde-robe'. In the past Southernwood featured as a cooking herb, used much like Wormwood to compliment greasy meats. However, modern pallets seem to be unanimously unimpressed by this culinary extravaganza. There are two varieties, a lemon-scented and a camphor scented one. As the aromatic component is due to an essential oil compound, the herb should not be cooked for long so as to prevent it from turning bitter. Likewise, when making a tea, cover the mug and steep only 3-5 minutes.
Medicinal Uses:
Southernwood is not commonly used for medicinal purposes. In the past it was used for worming children (threadworm) and to bring on delayed menstruation. In the past it was also used as an antidote to poison and to treat the bites of spiders and scorpions. It was said to drive away serpents. Sometimes it was used as a bedding or strewing herb to ward off infectious diseases. The old herbalists describe its nature as warm and dry, just like Mugwort. It was indicated for all kinds of ills that had their cause in excessively cold and damp conditions. Externally it was used as a wash or ointment for wounds and ulcers and as an eyewash.
CAUTION
Avoid during pregnancy.
Magical Uses:
Southernwood was said to attract 'quick love' and a sprig placed beneath the pillow could counteract any evil spells intended to hinder successful cohabitation. A man could win a girl's affection if he managed to secretly place a sprig of Southernwood beneath her apron. However, the affections would not last long and would turn to hatred in a few years. Southernwood could also protect cattle from the effects of evil sorcery that caused their milk to turn.
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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