common in your immediate surroundings. The process of creating a
herbal profi le will help you to appreciate that the trees and “weeds” that
grow around you are capable of feeding and healing you. You’ll realize
only too clearly that the whole body can be balanced and maintained by
using what is to be found commonly growing. (See appendix 3 for further
instructions and guidance if you wish to make your own herbal profi le.)
On the pages that follow, I give brief profi les of
sixteen plants widely available in Britain; most are
also common in the United States, or are similar to
species grown there. Be aware that some of the
herbs described here do carry contraindications.
burdock (arctium lappa)
Parts used: root and seed
Burdock is used as a root vegetable in Japan. Highly
nutritious, it will sustain the pancreas and spleen
while balancing blood sugar levels. It is a strong general immune-
boosting herb, rich in tumor-inhibiting chemistry. As a prime blood
cleanser it will clear the skin, bloodstream, lymph, and colon of poisons. It
is best used in combination with dandelion to safeguard the elimination
of collected toxins.
dandelion (taraxacum officinale)
Parts used: fl ower, leaf, and root
This is a wonderful herb for the liver, heart, and
kidneys. It helps stimulate liver function in general,
aiding digestion as it does. It is also a prime kidney
herb, helping to relieve water retention without
exhausting the kidneys. It treats gallbladder problems, edema, high blood
pressure, heart weakness, skin problems, and many other conditions.
elder (sambucus nigra)
Parts used: fruit, fl ower, leaf, and bark
The elderberry is now recognized as a strong anti-
viral, though this knowledge has long been part of
ancient Native American lore. The berries, leaves,
and fl owers are useful for treating fevers and
infl ammation, thanks to their anti-infl ammatory
chemistry. All parts of the plant clean and clear the
bloodstream and aid the clearing of mucus from the
lungs. When applied externally, the fl owers and bark
celebrating nature’s alchemy and fragrance 19