Thursday, August 29, 2013

The PAGAN WAY

The Order of Avalon
HERB OF THE DAY


Skullcap

Scullcap is a plant that is derived from the mint family and is easily grown.Since it is a perennial,Scullcap, reproduces year after year and can grow to a height of three feet. It grows well in damp places and meadows.This wonderful herb got it's name from the helmet shaped flower that grows on it. At one time Scullcap was also known as madweed or mad-dog scullcap; it was thought to be a cure for rabies.
Witches use Scullcap for many things. It is believed to be helpful for meditation and for helping with dreams and visions. Sprinkling around the home will help to keep a tranquil aura and promote a peace and love effect. This herb is also often used in love spells and charms. Scullcap is also often used in self initiation rites and for dedicating oneself to the old ways. Scullcap is used in hand fastening ceremonies as a bonding herb for the couple. It is believed to promote fidelity in a commited relationship. Many people also use it in mojo bags and carry it to attract money.

This little perennial holds many wonderful properties inside. Here are just a few of the vitamins and minerals found in Scullcap: calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, zinc, beta-carotene, B-vitamins and Vitamin C. It is thought to be a powerful antioxidant. It's most common use is for headaches and is wonderful at relieving stress. Other uses have been for pms,improve circulation and has been given to alcoholics who suffer from withdrawl symptoms. Some modern herbalists use Scullcap to prevent epileptic seizures. The parts of the skullcap plant used for medicinal purposes are the leaves.A good cup of scullcap tea will help if you suffer from pain or insomnia.

A closely related herb, Chinese skullcap, has anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antihistamine properties. It is also used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat tumors. It is now being tested in hopes to find treatment or help for combating bladder, liver, and other types of cancers. The Chinese laboratories have found an element present in scullcap that may be used in treating hepatitis B.

There is caution when using this herb as with anything else you would consume or rub on your skin. If pregnant or nursing, consult with a physician before using. An overdose of this medicinal herb can cause giddiness, stupor, confusion, and twitching.



 Adriana Lima

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