Poisonous Plants that Also Heal

As beautiful as some wild flowers may be, there are some that are poisonous in the wrong hands. It won't be surprising therefore to learn that there's a warning in some of their names, such as "Deadly Nightshade."

Deadly Nightshade (Atropa belladonna) is probably the best known of the poisonous plants. In some parts of the country it is called Devil's Rhubarb. This plant was commonly used during the 16^th century to make women's eyes sparkle, hence the name Belladonna, Italian for 'beautiful woman.' Eating as few as three berries can poison children and eating the leaves can be fatal to humans and animals. The antidote is physostigmine.

The Medicinal Qualities of Belladonna ~

In Alternative Medicine Belladonna is used to treat sore throats and conjunctivitis. In Modern Medicine the properties of this plant are used in a number of ways, including treatment for the affects of poison. Small doses are used for pupil dilation in eye examinations; it can also be found in cold and flu medicines.

The Medicinal Qualities of Ragwort ~

Ragwort (Senecio jacobaea) is another poisonous plant. As well as having a foul smell, it often hosts masses of striped caterpillars. Some call this plant Devildums!

It is also called Stagger-Wort, St Jame's Wort and Ragweed.

In Alternative Medicine, Ragwort is used as a mouth wash to treat mouth ulcers and as an ointment to treat sciatica, hip and joint pain.

The Medicinal Qualities of Devil Daisies or Feverfew ~

Sometimes called Devil Daisies, the feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium) and the ox-eye daisy (Chrysanthemum leucanthemum) are both good plants for psychic development or to bring emotional ease (used for patience and disappointment) but their strange smell has attracted a more sinister image. The medicinal qualities of this plant include properties to help relieve whooping cough, asthma and nervous conditions. Externally, it can be used to heal bruises, cuts and ulcers. Although Devil Daisies has also been known to cause skin irritation.

Feverfew has many healing qualities and is used in Alternative Medicine to treat headaches and migraines.

The Medicinal Qualities of the Stinging Nettle ~

The stinging nettle (Urtica dioica), also known as the Devil's Plaything because of its painful sting.

In Alternative Medicine, nettle has been found to be a good source of vitamins and is helpful in treating anaemia, leg cramps and period cramps. Long-term use of this herb such as in nettle tea nourish the liver and red blood cells.

The Medicinal Qualities of Ramsoms and Fool's Parsley ~

Ramsons or Allium ursinium is a beautiful soft white bouquet flower; its aroma often reaches us before we see it as it gives off a strong whiff of garlic. This plant is also called Devil-may-care.

Ramsom has many healing qualities and in Alternative Medicine is used to strengthen blood vessel walls, reduce blood clots, heal wounds, aid gastrointestinal tract and helps maintain a healthy blood pressure.

According to John Gerad, the Elizabethan physician, philosopher, Fool's Parsley (Aethusa cynapium) gives off a 'naughty smell.' This plant is also called the Devil's Wand. This herb has been used as a sedative.

The Medicinal Qualities of Wormwood ~

Wormwood was said to have grown in the tracks of the serpent Eden. This plant is also known as Old Woman, Absinthe, Green Ginger and Madderwort. In Alternative Medicine, wormwood is used in tinctures to heal fevers caused by internal parasites. It is also a good insect repellent. - Grind wormwood leaves into a moist mash. Blend with a little apple cider vinegar. Place the mixture into a six inch square cotton cloth or bandage, draw up the corners and tie at the top. This can be wiped on the skin to ward off mosquitoes and other insects while out in the open.

The Medicinal Qualities of Monkshood ~

The poison from the Monkshood, or wolfbane, was said to come from the dripping fangs of the three-headed dog Cerberus. All parts of this plant are poisonous; it should never be touched as even a mild dose of the poison can cause a severe allergic reaction and the poison can be absorbed through the skin.

In Alternative Medicine Monkshood is used to reduce restlessness, anxiety, sweating rapid heartbeat and panic symptoms.

Before using any herb you aren't familiar with, research it thoroughly, check its medicinal properties or consult a qualified practitioner or expert for advice.

Sources:

http://www.wikidoc.org/index.php/Deadly_nightshade

http://www.alive.com/868a3a2.php?subject_bread_cramb=222

http://www.healthyhabitsherbs.com/page/56712228

http://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_wormwood.htm