WHAT IS INDIAN SOAPBERRY? RITHA IN URDU ! HEALTH BENEFITS, USES OF INDIAN SOAPBERRY AND SOAP RECIPE !

 

WHAT IS RITHA? INDIAN SOAPBERRY!

Indian soapberries are the fruits of a tree called

Sapindus mukorossi, which belongs to the same family as lychee. They are also known as washnut, or Chinese soapberry and in Urdu called Ritha .
They grow in Pakistan in the lower foothills and midhills of the Himalayas, as well as in some parts of southern India and China .
Soapberries are not only useful for humans, but also for other animals and plants. Some insects, such as moths and butterflies, feed on the leaves of soapberry plants. Soapberry extracts can also act as insecticides, especially against mosquitoes that carry viral diseases. Soapberries can also be used as a dyeing agent for coloring silk and cotton fabrics .

Indian soapberries have many uses, especially for cleaning and personal care. They contain natural saponins, which are substances that can create foam and lather when mixed with water. People use soapberries to wash their hair, skin, clothes, dishes, and more. Soapberries are also eco-friendly, gentle, and economical, as they can be reused several times before they lose their effectiveness .
They are eco-friendly and biodegradable, unlike synthetic detergents that can harm the environment.
They are gentle and hypoallergenic, suitable for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
They are versatile and multipurpose, as they can be used for laundry, dishwashing, hair care, body wash, and more.
They are economical and long-lasting, as a few soapberries can be reused several times before they lose their effectiveness.
To make a multipurpose cleaning liquid, boil 15-20

soapberries in 6 cups of water for about 30 minutes, then strain and store the liquid in a glass jar. You can use this liquid as a laundry detergent, dish soap, floor cleaner, window cleaner, etc.
To wash your clothes with soapberries, put 4-6 soapberries in a small cloth bag and toss it in the washing machine along with your clothes. You can add some essential oils for fragrance if you like. The soapberries will release their saponins during the wash cycle and clean your clothes naturally. You can reuse the same soapberries for 4-6 loads before discarding them.
To wash your dishes with soapberries, soak a few soapberries in a bowl of warm water for about 10 minutes, then squeeze them to release their suds. Use this water to wash your dishes by hand or in the dishwasher. You can also add some vinegar or lemon juice for extra cleaning power.
To wash your hair with soapberries, soak a few soapberries in a cup of warm water for about 10 minutes, then mash them with your fingers to release their suds. Use this water to wet your hair and massage your scalp gently. Rinse well with clean water. You can also add some honey or aloe vera gel for extra nourishment and shine.

To wash your body with soapberries, soak a few soapberries in a cup of warm water for about 10 minutes, then mash them with your fingers to release their suds. Use this water to lather up your body and rinse well with clean water. You can also add some oatmeal or coffee grounds for extra exfoliation and scrubbing.
To make a facial cleanser with soapberries, soak a few soapberries in a cup of warm water for about 10 minutes, then mash them with your fingers to release their suds. Use this water to gently cleanse your face and rinse well with clean water. You can also add some yogurt or honey for extra moisturization and soothing.
To make a jewelry cleaner with soapberries, soak a

few soapberries in a cup of warm water for about 10 minutes, then mash them with your fingers to release their suds. Use this water to soak your jewelry for about 15 minutes, then scrub gently with a soft brush or cloth. Rinse well with clean water and dry with a soft cloth. This works well for silver, gold, copper, brass, and other metal
Soapberries are not only good for cleaning and personal care, but also have some medical and health benefits for the human body. According to some web sources, some of the benefits of soapberries are:

They have antioxidant properties that can protect the cells from oxidative stress and damage. Antioxidants can also improve cognition, memory, mood, and well-being .
They have anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce swelling and pain in the body. Anti-inflammatory agents can also improve immune health and function, and reduce the symptoms of some autoimmune conditions .
They have antimicrobial properties that can kill or inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Antimicrobial agents can also prevent infections and diseases .
They have high micronutrient content that can

provide essential vitamins and minerals for the body. Some of the vitamins in soapberries are A, E, K, and D, which are important for skin health, bone health, blood clotting, and immune system .
They can reduce LDL oxidation, which is a process that makes LDL cholesterol more harmful for the arteries and the heart. By reducing LDL oxidation, soapberries can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases .

They can improve insulin sensitivity, which is the ability of the cells to respond to insulin and regulate blood sugar levels. By improving insulin sensitivity, soapberries can help prevent or manage diabetes .
They can support healthy aging by enhancing stem cell proliferation, managing senescent cells, activating Nrf pathway, repairing DNA damage, and maintaining DNA structure. These processes can delay or reverse some of the signs of aging .
They have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory,

antimicrobial, and surfactant properties. They can protect the cells from damage, reduce swelling and pain, kill or inhibit harmful microbes, and enhance oil recovery or removal. They also have high micronutrient content, which can provide essential vitamins and minerals for the body. Some of the vitamins in soapberries are A, E, K, and D .

SCHISANDRA BERRY ! Ancient Secret Chinese Herbs ! Health Benefits And Uses Of SCHISANDRA Berries! SCHISANDRA BERRY TEA Recipe!

WHAT IS SCHISANDRA BERRY?

Schisandra Berry or Schisandra chinensis, also

known as the “five-flavor fruit,” is a fruit-bearing vine. Its purple-red berries are described as having five tastes: sweet, salty, bitter, pungent, and sour. In traditional Chinese medicine, Schisandra berry is considered beneficial to qi, the life force or energy inherent in all living things. It’s thought to have a positive impact on several meridians in the body, including the heart, lungs, and kidneys .

Schisandra  berries have A, B, and C are bioactive chemical compounds extracted from the Schisandra plant. These can be taken in powdered, pill, or liquid form.
Schisandra can also be purchased as dried whole berries or as juice.
Supplements are available in various forms: dried powder, pills, extracts, and elixirs .

Schisandrin C reduces toxic fatty acids and inflammation in the liver. It’s effective against both chronic and acute liver damage.
Schisandra is an adaptogen that helps protect against physical and mental stress by supporting proper endocrine functions.
Schisandra may provide relief from menopausal symptoms .

Remember to consult a medical professional before using any supplements or herbal remedies!

 
​SCHISANDRA BERRY TEA !

Heat a small pot of water to 190°F (88°C).

Put 1 to 2 tablespoons (7 to 14 g) of dried Schisandra berries into a tea infuser or filter.
Add the Schisandra berries to the water and simmer the tea for 15 to 20 minutes.
Remove the infuser and pour the tea into a cup. You can sweeten it with honey or add a little fresh lemon juice if desired.
Drink Schisandra berry tea 3 or 4 times a day for focus or to improve liver health .
Remember that Schisandra berries have various health benefits, but it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating them into your diet!

 
IT'S CALLED HERBS TREAT AND TASTE!

What is Chilgoza? Pine Nuts! Health Benefits And Uses Of Chilgoza! Roasted mushrooms and pine nuts With Cheese Recipe!

 What Is Chilgoza? Pine Nuts!

Chilgoza, also known as Pine Nut, is a distinct pine variety found in the regions of India,

Pakistan, Afghanistan, and the specific area is the western forest of the Himalayas . Chilgoza (Pine nuts) are also grown predominantly in the Northern Hemisphere in Asia, Europe, and North America and are also known as pinyon, pignoli, pignolia, pinon, and pignon . Chilgoza (Pine nuts )are a nutritious snack that can be eaten raw or roasted. They can be added to salads, sprinkled on top of hummus, and blended up as part of pesto and other sauces. 

Different species, environments, and regions contribute to slight variations in pine nuts’ shape and nutritional composition. Asian pine nuts are short, while European varieties are long and thin .

Chilgoza (pine nuts) are healthy and loaded with antioxidants. They contain zinc, which improves immunity and prevents common colds. They are also a rich source of magnesium, which assists in sound sleep and mood improvement.

The high level of good fatty acids in Chilgoza

makes it safe to consume and helps prevent heart attacks.

 Chilgoza is rich in vitamins A and E, iron, folate, and other vital nutrients. Pregnant women and lactating mothers can safely pass on these health benefits to their developing babies.

 Regular consumption of Chilgoza helps develop sharp vision due to its vitamin A content.

Here are some health benefits associated with pine nuts:

Pinolenic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid found in pine nuts, may be beneficial for heart health due to its ability to reduce the levels of LDL (bad) cholesterol in the blood .

May improve blood sugar levels: 

Chilgoza (Pine nut) extract may contribute to a decrease in fasting blood glucose levels . Replacing a carb-rich food with unsaturated fats (such as those found in pine nuts) may have beneficial effects on blood sugar levels .

Pine nuts contain pinoleic acid which stimulates the release of hormones that suppress appetite .

Chilgoza (Pine nuts) contain magnesium which is essential for brain function .

Chilgoza (Pine nuts) can be used in a variety of

dishes such as salads, pesto sauce, and hummus. They can also be eaten raw or roasted as a snack. However, it’s important to note that pine nuts are high in calories and should be consumed in moderation .

About 100 grams of dry Chilgoza nut provides 673 calories. It’s rich in minerals, antioxidants, and vitamins12.

Roasted Mushrooms with Chilgoza (Pine Nuts) and cheese!

Ingredients:

1 ½ pounds cremini mushrooms make pieces 

1 pound shiitake mushrooms ,stemmed and pieces.

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

Salt and pepper as per taste 

Fresh thyme sprigs (or dried thyme)

1 teaspoon lemon juice

1 ounce freshly grated Parmesan cheese (about ½ cup)

2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts

2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 450°F.

Dissolve 5 teaspoons salt in 2 quarts room-temperature water in a large container.

Add the cremini and shiitake mushrooms to the brine, cover with a plate or bowl to submerge, and let stand for 10 minutes.

Drain the mushrooms in a colander and pat them dry with paper towels.

Spread the mushrooms evenly on a rimmed baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and toss to coat.

Roast until the liquid from the mushrooms has completely evaporated, 35 to 45 minutes.

Remove the sheet from the oven, carefully stir the mushrooms, and return to the oven. Continue roasting until the mushrooms are deeply browned, 5 to 10 minutes longer.

Combine melted butter and lemon juice in a large bowl. Add the roasted mushrooms and toss to coat.

Add freshly grated Parmesan, toasted pine nuts, and chopped parsley. Toss everything together.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve immediately.

It's Called Herbs treat and taste!

MORINGA! WHAT IS MORINGA? HEALTH BENEFITS AND USES OF MORINGA!

 Moringa, also known as the drumstick tree in English.   

Botanical name is Moringa oleifera and belong to the family of Moringaceae, Synonyms Moringa pterygosperma . Urdu name is Sohanjna , in Bengali Sojna , in Pashto Sohanjna , in Sanskrit Sobhanjana, in Sindhi Sohanjaro, in Punjabi Soanjana, in Chinese La Ken and in Hindi Segva, Shajna, Soanjna. 

Moringa plant native to India and Pakistan that has been used for centuries due to its health benefits .

 It is a tree with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that contains many essential compounds such as vitamins A, B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), C (ascorbic acid), calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus . 

Moringa’s health benefits may range from speeding up wound healing to managing blood glucose .

Here are some of the possible benefits of moringa:

Protecting and nourishing skin and hair: Research involving animals has suggested that moringa seed oil may help heal skin wounds more quickly by reducing oxidative stress. Moringa seed oil may also have benefits for hair health.

Treating edema: 

Edema is when fluid builds up in body tissues, for instance, because of inflammation. In one study, applying moringa seed oil reduced skin inflammation in mice with ear edema. This suggests the anti-inflammatory properties of moringa may help treat ear edema .

Protecting the liver:

 Moringa might help protect the liver against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. In one study, researchers fed guinea pigs a diet containing moringa leaves. Those that consumed a higher concentration of moringa had lower cholesterol  and triglyceride levels and less inflammation in  their liver .

Preventing and treating cancer:

 

Moringa contains properties that might help prevent cancer. For example, it contains niazimicin, a compound that suppresses the development of cancer cells. According to some scientists, extracts of moringa leaf, bark, and other parts of the plant may have properties that can kill cancer cells. If further research confirms this, they could prove useful in treating breast, liver, colorectal, and other cancers .

Treating stomach upset:

 Moringa extracts might help treat some stomach disorders. For instance: The fibrous pods can benefit digestive health and may help prevent colon cancer. Moringa leaves have shown a laxative effect, making moringa a possible option for constipation. In one study, moringa reduced stomach acidity by around 85%, suggesting it could prevent peptic ulcers. Moringa’s antibiotic and antibacterial properties may help prevent the growth of pathogens that can cause infections .

Please note that while moringa has many potential health benefits, more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

Moringa Salad Recipe!

Potato Salad with Moringa Leaves:

 This salad is a spicy sauté of moringa leaves, potatoes, and a whole lot of flavor! 

The recipe calls for 2 cups of Moringa, 

8 medium red potatoes, 

1 onion, 3 cloves of garlic, 

2 teaspoons of fresh ginger (grated),

 2 teaspoons of ground coriander,

 ½ teaspoon of ground turmeric,

 ½ teaspoon of chili powder (and/or 1 teaspoon chili flakes), 

3 tablespoons of oil (of your choice),

 salt and pepper to taste, 

and fresh cilantro to garnish.

It's Call

ed Herbs treat and taste!

What Is Tukh malanga? Basil Seeds Health Benefits And Uses:

 What Is Tukh malanga? Basil Seeds Health Benefits And Uses!

Tukh malanga called in Pakistan and India also known as basil seeds (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil seeds, also have another name as Sabja

seeds or Tukmaria seeds.

Basil seeds are tiny black seeds derived from the basil plant . While basil leaves are commonly used as a culinary herb, the seeds have gained popularity for their nutritional benefits and their use in certain dishes and beverages.

Basil seeds are small, round, and black. When soaked in water, they swell and develop a gelatinous outer layer.

Basil seeds are used in various culinary preparations. They are often added to desserts, drinks, and smoothies, as they can provide a unique texture and visual appeal. In some recipes, they are used as a thickening agent or as an egg substitute in vegan recipes.

 Basil seeds are a rich source of dietary fiber, which can aid digestion and promote a feeling of fullness. They also contain essential nutrients such as iron, calcium, and magnesium. Additionally, they are low in calories and carbohydrates.

In some Asian countries like Pakistan,India and

Bangladesh basil seeds are used in drinks for their cooling properties. They are believed to have a cooling effect on the body, making them a popular addition to beverages during hot weather.

Basil seeds have a high fiber content, which aids in digestion and helps prevent constipation. They can also provide relief from acidity and heartburn.

The high fiber content in Basil seeds helps promote a feeling of fullness and can aid in weight management by curbing overeating and reducing cravings.

 

When soaked in water, tukhmalanga seeds develop a gelatinous outer layer. Consuming this gel-like substance helps to keep the body hydrated and can be particularly beneficial during hot weather.

Basil  seeds may help regulate blood sugar levels due to their fiber content and ability to slow down the absorption of carbohydrates in the body.

Basil  seeds are a good source of essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They contain calcium, magnesium, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids.

The antioxidants present in Basil seeds help in

protecting the skin from damage caused by free radicals. They also aid in maintaining healthy skin by promoting collagen production.

The omega-3 fatty acids found in Basil seeds are beneficial for heart health. They help reduce inflammation, lower cholesterol levels, and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Basil  seeds may have a calming effect on the body and can help reduce stress and anxiety. They contain compounds that promote relaxation and improve mood.

       HOW TO USE :

Soaking and consumption: Before consuming basil seeds, they are typically soaked in water for about 15-20 minutes until they develop a gel-like coating. The soaked seeds can then be added to various dishes or drinks. It's important to note that the soaked seeds should not be consumed dry, as they can swell and potentially cause choking.

As with any food or supplement, it's always

recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist to understand how basil seeds can fit into your specific dietary needs and goals.

It's important to note that while basil seeds offer potential health benefits, individual results may vary. It's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or nutritionist before making any significant changes to your diet or incorporating new ingredients.

Harnessing the Power of Herbs for Health and Beauty:

 Harnessing the Power of Herbs for Health and Beauty: 

A Natural Approach

In today's fast-paced world, where stress, pollution, and synthetic products are rampant, there is a growing inclination towards embracing natural alternatives for health and beauty. Herbs, with their centuries-old reputation as potent healers, are gaining popularity as people seek to enhance their well-being using nature's bounty. This article explores the fascinating world of herbal remedies and their transformative effects on both health and beauty. From soothing lavender to rejuvenating aloe vera, we delve into the wonders of herbs and discover their remarkable potential in nourishing and revitalizing our bodies inside and out.

Turmeric:           

Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful compound that can alleviate various health conditions, including arthritis and digestive disorders. Incorporating turmeric into your diet can promote a healthy immune system and improve overall well-being.

Ginger: 

This aromatic root is widely recognized for its digestive benefits. Ginger helps relieve nausea, reduces inflammation, and aids in digestion. Enjoy a cup of ginger tea or include it in your cooking to reap its health-enhancing qualities.

Holy Basil: 

Also known as tulsi, holy basil is revered in Ayurvedic medicine for its numerous health benefits. It has adaptogenic properties that help combat stress, boost immunity, and support respiratory health. Consuming holy basil tea or incorporating it into your diet can be beneficial.

Cinnamon: 

Beyond its delicious flavor, cinnamon has been linked to various health benefits. It may help regulate blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and possess antimicrobial properties. Sprinkle cinnamon on your morning oatmeal or blend it into your smoothies for a wholesome kick.

Aloe Vera:

Known as the "plant of immortality," aloe vera is a versatile herb that promotes skin health. It has soothing and moisturizing properties, making it ideal for sunburn relief, reducing acne, and nourishing the skin. Extract the gel from an aloe vera leaf and apply it topically for optimal results.

Lavender: 

This fragrant herb not only calms the mind but also offers numerous beauty benefits. Lavender essential oil can help alleviate skin irritations, reduce anxiety, and promote restful sleep. Incorporate lavender-infused products into your skincare routine or create your own DIY beauty recipes.

Rosemary:

 Rich in antioxidants, rosemary has anti-aging properties that can help combat skin damage caused by free radicals. It also stimulates hair growth and enhances scalp health. Add a few drops of rosemary essential oil to your shampoo or create a DIY facial toner for a refreshing boost.

Calendula: 

With its vibrant orange petals, calendula is a gentle herb that possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It is excellent for soothing irritated skin, promoting wound healing, and reducing skin redness. Look for skincare products containing calendula or create your own herbal-infused oil for topical us.

Incorporating herbs into our lives can be a transformative journey towards holistic well-being. Whether it's enhancing internal health or enhancing external beauty, herbs offer a natural and sustainable approach. However, it is important to remember that individual experiences may vary, and it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional or an herbalist before starting any herbal regimen.

By embracing the power of herbs, we can tap into the rich traditions of ancient healing and experience the wonders of nature firsthand. From the vibrant hues of turmeric to the delicate fragrance of lavender, herbs have the potential to rejuvenate our bodies, nourish our skin, and promote overall vitality. 

SAMOSA: EASY AND TASTY RECIPE SAMOSA IN RAMZAN:

 

WHAT IS SAMOSA? HOW TO MAKE SAMOSA: EASY AND TASTY RECIPE

SAMOSA RECIPE

Samosas are very popular street food in Pakistan and you can buy them almost anywhere, in special samosa shops where you can sit and eat them, covered with a delicious imli (tamarind) sauce, or with a different sauce (called ‘chutney’ here) such as a mint sauce.. They are one of the foods served to break the fast during Ramadan and are frequently served with pakoras.

  What are samosas? They are stuffed savoury pastries and may be stuffed with potatoes, which is most common and the recipe given here, or they can be stuffed with minced (ground) beef and peas, or with chicken, or a mixture of vegetables.

Ingredients

Pastry

2 cups fine flour (maida), sifted

2 tsps oil

1 tsp ajwain or thyme

warm water to mix

salt to taste

1 egg, beaten to seal pastry

Filling

3-4 potatoes depending on size

3 green chillies, finely chopped

1 onion chopped into small pieces

½ tsp ginger root, finely chopped

1 tbsp fresh coriander leaves, shredded finely

1 tbsp mint leaves, finely shredded

1 tbsp anar dana (dried pomegranate seeds), soaked for 15 mins before using

1 tsp cumin seeds

1 tsp garam masala

1 tsp coriander seeds

1 tsp turmeric

chilli powder and salt to taste

oil for deep frying

Method

Mix flour with salt ajwain or thyme and the oil then add water slowly as needed to make a dough. Shape into 4 balls of equal size, cover in cling film and leave to chill for ½ an hour as this makes it easier to roll out the pastry.

Now roll them into rounds of 6 inches and cut in the middle.

Filling: -

Boil the potatoes peeled and whole then leave them to cool and mash them with all the other ingredients.

Beat the egg and use to seal two sides of each cone of pastry. Fill the cone with the filling and seal the end with the egg again.

Heat the oil for deep-frying and when hot enough to fry chips or French fries, lower the samosas into it a batch at a time so that they cook evenly.

Fry until the pastry is golden brown, remove from the oil and drain on absorbent paper.

Serve with chutney (sauce).

This has Taste and is a Treat.

How to make pakoray!

 

PAKORA:what is pakora?

PAKORA
These are popular snacks in Pakistan and northern India, and are easy to make. People serve them to unexpected guests washed down with cups of tea, as the ingredients are readily available in subcontinental kitchens. You can make them with aubergines (eggplants), or potatoes, but the most important ingredient is the chickpea flour, or besan as it is called. You can grind your own from dried chickpeas if you can’t buy it at your local supermarket.
People enjoy eating these while sitting on their verandahs or balconies, and watching the rain in the monsoon season.


Pakora
Ingredients
250 gr chickpea flour (besan)
2 medium onions, finely chopped
100 gr spinach, washed thoroughly, dried and finely shredded
6 green chillies, very finely chopped
1 tbsp cumin seeds
1 tsp garam masala (see our recipe)
1 tsp coriander seeds, lightly crushed
1 tsp turmeric
1 tbsp dried thyme
1 tbsp dried mint
1 handful fresh coriander leaves, finely shredded
1 tbsp dried pomegranate seeds, soaked in water for 5 mins before using
¾ cup water
salt and pepper
oil for deep frying


Method
Put the chickpea flour along with the vegetables, spices and herbs into a large mixing bowl. Slowly add the water and knead until everything is evenly mixed. If you feel you need a little more water add some, but not too much.
Heat the oil in a frying pan or deep-fryer and when it starts to bubble, take a tbsp of the mixture and drop it into the pan. Continue doing this until you have a layer of Pakora and fry until they are lightly browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and drain on absorbent paper while cooking the next batch. Keep warm (in a preheated oven) until they are all cooked.
Serve with our mint and yoghurt sauce and the traditional cup of tea.

SHEPHERD'S NEEDLE - USED BY THE ANCIENT PHYSICIANS OF MYDDFAI: HEALTH BENEFITS AND USES OF SHEPHERD'S NEEDLE

SHEPHERD’S NEEDLE, LADY’S COMB, SCANDIX PECTENS-VENERIS

Shepherd’s Needle is native to Scandinavia, Britain, Europe and the Mediterranean region through to the western Himalayas. It is a member of the carrot or Apiaceae or Umbelliferae family of plants and as such is related to caraway, dill, fennel, sweet Cicely, anise, lesser and greater burnet saxifrage, cow parsley, parsley,  water dropwort or water fennel, hemlock, lovage, Alexanders, and Thapsia among many others.

  In Britain it is now confined to Suffolk and some other parts of south-east England, and is Critically Endangered there. However in other parts of its native region such as Pakistan it is thriving. In Britain it is being threatened by agricultural methods and loss of field margins, as it is a plant that used to thrive on arable land.

  It grows to heights of around one foot eight inches, with umbels of white flowers appearing between April and July. The young stem tops are edible and can be added to salads or eaten in soups and stews, or simply used as a pot-herb to flavour these.

  The plant contains carotene and vitamin C so was good to protect against scurvy in former times. It is also rich in minerals containing iron, phosphorous, sodium, calcium, manganese, magnesium, copper, zinc, chromium and nickel. It also contains the fatty acids, palmitic, stearic, linoleic and linolenic and is a source of Omega-3 although not very much.hhhhh

 It provides dietary fibre, protein and carbohydrates and could be a useful addition to human diets, as it has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

  Nicholas Culpeper, writing in the 17^th century had little to say about the medicinal virtues of this plant, but this is what he wrote:-

  “Government and virtues. This little plant is under the government of Venus. When taken as a medicine, it operates by urine, and is good against obstructions of the viscera.”

  The names Scandix in ancient Greek means “chervil” and pectens-veneris, comb of Venus, although calling it “Lady’s comb” meant that the pagan reference to a Roman goddess was transferred to the Virgin Mary, (Our Lady). The plant probably gets its name from the needle-like structure of the seed pods.

  The ancient Physicians of Myddfai found uses fro the Shepherd’s Needle, suggesting that it was fairly plentiful in Mid-Wales during their time. This is what they wrote and their remedies using Shepherd’s Needle in combination with other herbs (the notes in the brackets are mine):

“ISSUES AND SEATONS.
. Viper's garlic, and shepherd's needle. The juice of the roots will form an issue (liquid would flow from a wound or lesion on the skin), that of then leaves a seaton. (Cyst or fistula, now seton)”

  Here is their remedy for “pneumonia” and other lung diseases.

  “There are three kinds of lung disease; — simple pneumonia, white pneumonia, (bronchitis) and black pneumonia, (phthisis) which is marked by pain below the mamma, under the armpit, and in the top of the shoulders, with (hectic) redness of the cheeks. And thus are they treated. Let (the patient) take, for three successive days, of the following herbs ; hemlock, agrimony, herb Robert, and asarabacca, then let him undergo a three day's course of aperients. When the disease is thus removed from the bronchial tubes, an emetic should be given him (daily) to the end of nine days. Afterwards let a medicine be prepared, by digesting the following herbs in wheat ale or red wine: madder, sharp dock, anise, agrimony, daisy, round birthwort, meadow sweet, yellow goat's beard, heath, water avens, woodruff, crake berry, the corn cockle, caraway, and such other herbs as will seem good to the physician. 

Thus is the blessed confection prepared. Take of May butter, a she-goat's suet or a doe's fat, the shepherd's needle, and as many as may be desired of such herbs as may be suitable for the purpose. A wounded lung is the physician's third difficulty, for he cannot controul it, but must wait for the will of God. By means of the herbs just mentioned, a medicine may be prepared for any one who has a pulmonary abcess (empyema.) He should let out (the matter) and support (the patient) as in the case of a wounded lung, till he is recovered. But most usually, he will have died within the year.”

MOUNTAIN LAUREL NATIVE TO USA: HEALTH BENEFITS AND USES OF MOUNTAIN LAUREL

MOUNTAIN LAUREL, CALICO BUSH, SPOONWOOD, KALMIA LATIFOLIA  

Mountain laurel is indigenous to the north Eastern parts of North America. It is an evergreen shrub which usually doesn’t exceed ten feet in height, although it can grow to tree size and achieve heights of forty feet with a diameter of two feet.

 It is the only one of the Kalmia genus which grows to tree size. It is known by several other names including Sheep laurel and a synonym for the species is Kalmia lucida. It is the state flower of Pennsylvania.

  The mountain laurel is a member of the Ericaceae family or heather (ling) family of plants and as such is related to the trailing azalea, yellow bird’s nest, wintergreen (Gaultheria procumbens), the strawberry tree and the Greek strawberry tree, as well as bilberries, blueberries and cranberries.

  Its glossy green leaves closely resemble those of the European laurel or bay tree (Laurus nobilis). However the leaves and indeed the whole of the mountain laurel is poisonous. The wild variety of mountain laurel usually has pink flowers which turn to white. They flower between late May and June with the brown-tan fruits appearing just after the flowers fade, and it ripens in September.

  The plant is an attractive one and so has been cultivated with many cultivars and colours of flowers available if you want to have it in your garden. It is toxic and can be lethal to animals, although it would seem that deer are unharmed by it. People have apparently suffered ill-effects in the past after eating pheasants which had fed on mountain laurel. There is also a documented case of poisoning in the USA in 1790 according to Neltje Blanchen in Nature’s Garden, which was published by Doubleday, Page and Co in 1900.

 In that book it is related that there were fatal cases of poisoning after people had eaten wild honey. It was traced back to the Mountain laurel.                                                                                                                   

   The expressed juice of the plant or a decoction of the leaves is believed to have been used by Native Americans to commit suicide in the past. It is hardly ever used in modern herbal medicine, although it is used in homeopathy to cure the symptoms which a large dose can provoke, for example vertigo, nausea, headache, loss of vision, and a number of other ailments. It is also used for rheumatism, or at least the pain of that complaint.

  An infusion of the leaves has been used externally for skin problems, and inflammatory problems. This was also used to clean wounds and to get rid of external parasites such as lice and tics. Internally an infusion of the leaves was used for its astringent and sedative properties, to stop haemorrhages, for diarrhoea and dysentery, for fevers; neuralgia, angina and syphilis.

  A salve made from the expressed juice or sap of the plant is topically applied to rheumatic pains.

  A yellow-tan dye can be obtained from the leaves of Mountain Laurel, and the plant can be used as a living hedge. The wood is, or at least was, used for fuel and can be used to make small items such as tool handles. The roots were used to make spoons, giving it one of its names- Spoonwood.