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Argentina
Endangered species: Pau Brasil, goldenseal
Argentina: Capsicum Annuum/Paprika, aka Pimenton Contains: Anti-oxidants, rich in Vit
A, E, C
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory
analgesic, digestion aid, improve
circulation
Pimentos is seen as symbol of
warmth and protection and
representative of the passion and
spirit of Argentinian people
I use Paprika a lot in culinary
dishes with chicken or beef for
flavour. It has a somewhat hot
and dry yet sweet taste which
blends well with any savoury
dish. Not quite as strong as
Cayenne but a good substitute
for those who like a milder taste.
Pimenton is widely used in
Argentinian cuisine and you will
find it in almost all savoury
dishes.
Austria
Contains: Tannins
Benefits: Astringent, relief of menstrual symptoms such as cramps, heavy menstruation, and menopausal symptoms, digestive aid such as diarrhea and indigestion
In Austrian folklore, the dew collected on the leaves was seen as a magical dew that was pure and possessed magical properties. It was valued by Alchemists for its ability to help in transforming base metals into gold and creating the Philospher’s Stone. It was also seen as a reference to the Virgin Mary’s protective cloak and was used as protection and to ward off negative energies and even pests to the crops when planted around the homes and gardens. Some in rural Austria wore Lady’s Mantles as an amulet to keep the wearer safe and ward off evil spirits. It was also used in some rural areas in fertility rituals to enhance fertility and help with a healthy pregnancy.
BAHAMAS
Bahamas: Aloe Vera
Contains: Enzymes, Minerals, Sugars, Anthraquinones, hormones, Vitamins A,C,E, B12, folic acid, Choline
Benefits: Skincare and wound healing-soothing and
repair the skin from burns, scrapes, cuts, abrasions, and
other skin irritations. Digestive health-aids in digestion
and helps detoxify the digestive system. Immune
boosting, beauty-hair and skin care
Bahamians plant aloe vera around the home for
protection and healing, Traditional Healers use the plant
not only for healing but also in spiritual cleansing rituals
and ceremonies.
I can attest to Aloe Vera’s digestive and wound healing
uses. Vacationing one weekend in the Bahamas I got a
mild case of heart burn and was given an aloe juice to
help my tummy heal. It had a gelatinous texture and the
taste was somewhat sweet. It was easy to drink and I
felt it’s comfort as it helped my stomach to settle. I also
felt like it hydrated me more than if I would have taken a
drink with electrolytes. I have also used aloe vera on
burns as well as cuts and scrapes and it definitely has a
soothing and cooling property. The plant is extremely
important to the Bahamas for it’s economic, cultural and
healing benefits.
BELGIUM
Belgium: Valeriana officinales/ Valerian
Contains: Valerenic acid, Calcium, Magnesium, EFA’s, beta carotene, b vitamins
Benefits: Aids with sleep disorders, gastro-intestinal spasms and distress, epileptic seizures, ADHD, reduction of PMS and menopausal symptoms
Valerian’s strong smell was thought to help keep away negative and evil energies such as witches, ghosts and demons. Belgians would place it under their pillows or hang it around their homes, giving it the symbol of protection, peace, tranquility and harmony. It was also used in love spells to attract lovers or strengthen existing relationships. Seeing as valerian was used to relax and help with sleep, it was also used as a charm to help the user have prophetic and meaningful dreams and visions.
Valerian can be found in most Herbalist shops, Apothecaries and even drugstores in Brussels in capsule form or tea and sometimes as a tinctures. I myself have a pouch full of tea that I often take before going to sleep when I am jet-lagged. It’s earthy flavour, when steeped just the right amount of time (10 minutes) has a warm and calming effect. I often add a half spoon of honey and that makes it just delicious! From my experience, it always helps me wind down and drift off into a beautiful sleep.
BRAZIL
Brazil: Euterpe oleracea/Acai
Contains: Amino acids, sterols, fibre, Vitamins A and C, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc, copper, chromium, phosphorus
Benefits: Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory,
immune booster, lowers blood sugar
The Acai berry on it’s own is actually not sweet
at all but has a very earthy grainy flavour. Most
people eat it when it is blended as a juice with
other fruits or as you might have tried at
Booster juice, a sorbet or smoothie. My
favourite is Brazilian style “Açai na nigella”; in a
bowl, frozen with a bit of banana, granola and
honey glazed on top. It’s the best for an after
workout snack in my opinion. Add a yummy
tapioca with grated coconut and cheese or local
cheese and you’ve got yourself the most
delicious snack. The indigenous tribes from
Brazil, as well and farmers and fishermen have
long used the açai berry for energy, sustenance
and medicine. It is one of Brazil’s most
significant plants culturally, traditionally and
economically.
CANADA
Canada: Echinacea Purpurea/ Purple Coneflower
Contains: Flavinoids, cichoric acid, rosemarinic acid
Benefits: Boost immune function, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-viral, hormonal effect, skin health
I’m sure most of us when we have felt a cold coming on, have tried echinacea tea or taken capsules to boost our immune system in anticipation that our symptoms will be lessened. Although capsules (which I take every so often) have
absolutely no taste, echinacea tea does have a certain
floral/pungent/bitter taste to it. I have found that when
I have taken echinacea when I am extra tired or have
that gut feeling that something is off in my body, I’ve
often been able to battle it off. This matches perfectly
with the way the indigenous people of North America
saw echinacea. The saw it as a plant to help us create
boundaries. When you start to feel sick, we start to
build our immune system to create a boundary
against the Illness so it can not come through.
Echinacea is also a symbol of strength and healing
also for it’s ability to grow in harsh climates. It is
connected to the crown chakra (also purple) and
throat chakras, enabling you to connect to higher
energies and realize and communicate inner truths.
Indigenous peoples of North America also used
Echinacea to treat snake bites, toothaches, sore
throat and even small pox.
CHILE
Chile: Peumus Boldus/Boldo
Contains: Limonene, coumarin, camphor, beta-pinene
Benefits: Detoxifier, digestion aid, immune boost, gallbladder health by production of bile, anti-microbial, sun protection and possible use in diabetes.
During traditional Chilean rituals, bold leaves are burnt so
that the smoke can ward off evil energies. Chileans see
Boldo as a symbol of strength and resilience because it’s
tree can thrive and endure in the harshest of conditions.
And speaking of harsh conditions, Chileans would often
drink Boldo tea after a night of drinking, to soothe their
stomachs and alleviate nausea from hangovers.
Boldo ha a very “thin” taste, sort of like green tea. I have
always drank it on it’s own in a cup of hot water. The first
time I had “cha de Boldo”, I was actually at my in-laws
house in Brazil (not even Chile) and had been having
digestion issues. Although this issue has been a recurring
situation for me, perhaps from travelling a lot, Boldo
surprised me very much as it was very quick to soothe my
stomach. Since then, whenever I get to Santiago, Chile,
Boldo is on my shopping list and has become a staple and
one of my go to’s in my medicine shelf. If only I had learnt
about Boldo earlier, I might still be in possession of my
gallbladder, since as mentioned, Boldo helps with gallbladder issues!
China-Hong Kong
China-Hong Kong: Chrysanthemum
Contains: Flavinoids, phenolic acids, Vitamins A,C,B, potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, phosphorus, amino acid, linoeic acid
Benefits: Anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, vision/heart/liver/skin health, bone density, immune support, anti-hypertensive
Chrysanthemums are not only my birth month flower, they have always been fascinating to me, partially because they are seen as the main flower for funerals in North America and I had a fascination with death growing up (don’t ask). So when I saw Chrysanthemum tea on a menu in Hong Kong, on a layover, I had to try it. Little did I know at the time all the health benefits associated with it. It’s taste is smooth, almost oily and slightly sweet in a floral way, although the taste can become bitter if steeped too long. In China, the chrysanthemum represents longevity, nobility, success (total opposite mind you of how we see the chrysanthemum here). It also marks the last month of Autumn since ancient times.
CUBA
Cuba: Pouteria sapota/ Mamey Sapote
Contains: Vitamins B and C, Riboflavin, niacin, vitamin E, manganese, potassium, fibre
Benefits: Immune function, colon health, prevent anemia The Mamey Sapote is in many folkloric stories in Cuba, often portrayed as magical. It’s connection to Cuban culture is deep rooted and it symbolizes abundance, fertile land and prosperity, Cubans use it in both savoury and sweet recipes thanks to it’s versatility. It’s nutrient dense properties make it useful to them in culinary dishes but also in traditional medicine. Sometimes, the seeds are ground to make various home remedies. Although the seeds are toxic if not ingested in small amounts and prepared properly, they can be used topically to treat skin conditions, make insect repellant, or made into oil for skin, hair care and aromatherapy.
DENMARK
Denmark: Matricaria chamomilla/ Chamomile
Contains: Vitamin C,calcium, copper, zinc, iron, terpenoids, flavonoids
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, astringent, digestive aid, mild sedative, emmenagogue, uterine tonic, anti-cancer,
Every hotel room in Denmark has a hot water kettle and most likely 1-2 tea sachets of Chamomile. It’s use has been used in many places and specifically Denmark for it’s warm comforting taste, relaxing effect and digestive benefits. There is nothing better than curling up with a nice hot cup of chamomile tea to get ready for bed after a day exploring and swimming in the freezing canal.
Chamomile grows readily everywhere in Denmark due to it’s dry loose soil. Not only is Chamomile one of Odin’s (norse mythology’s All-Father) nine sacred herbs, it was also a Danish one. There is even a Danish proverb that says” When in doubt, use Chamomile” which shows how much trust the Danish people had in the herb. Chamomile, was seen as a herb representing resilience and strength, and also used as a protective charm to ward off negative energies. Harvesting times at certain moon phases and respecting the balance of nature were always at the forefront so that their yield would maintain it’s medicinal potency.
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Dominican Republic: Psidium Guajava/ Guava Leaves Contains: Calcium, potassium, sulfer, sodium, iron, boron, magnesium, manganese, Vitamins c and B
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, immune boosting, anti-diarrhea, diabetic aid, lowers high blood pressure
Guava fruit is a delicious fruit that can be plucked right off a tree anywhere in the Dominican Republic, but did you know you could make a tea with the leaves too? If you’ve eaten something that doesn’t agree with you or somehow got a stomach bacteria while you’re there, have some guava leaf tea on an empty stomach. It relieves diarrhea and cramping almost immediately and goes to work on preventing the growth of the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria. Dominicans also use guava leaf for topical beauty remedies and hair growth.
Dominicans believe that guava leaves can protect against negative energies and evil spirits. The often place leaves around their homes or even in a sachet in their pocket to ward off any harm. They are also used in rituals for fertility and prosperity as well as purification. The leaves can be boiled and used to bathe in to purify the body and spirit. Also, seeing a guava tree or even the leaves in a dream is a seen as a good omen.
FRANCE
France: Lavandula stoechas/ French Lavender
Contains: Calcium, iron, potassium, Vitamins A, C
magnesium, volatile oils, rosmarinic acid, flavonoids
Benefits: Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anxiety, sleep disorders,
skin conditions, burns, hair loss, headaches/migraines,
chemotherapy side-effects
Lavender, being one of my favourite herbs/flowers grows in
many places, but there is a certain stronger pine smell to
French lavender that makes it special to me. I not only drink
lavender tea but I diffuse it, use it as an essential oil on my
skin, use it as an air freshener, and most importantly, I use it
as a repellant. I always have a small spray bottle when I
travel of lavender oil, tea tree oil, lemon oil and water that I
spray around my hotel rooms, sheets, and suitcase to deter
and unwanted visitors (bed bugs, cockroaches, spiders etc.)
Lavender symbolizes peace, purity, love and commitment
and is connected to the third eye and spiritual intuition.
Lavender was brought to France in around 600BC by the
Romans who used it in their roman baths to bathe- lavare in
Latin, which means wash, hence the name Lavender. In
France, They used lavender for protection against evil spirits
and to enhance one’s connection to the spirit world. It also was used as a sign of commitment and love. In French folklore, lavender symbolized the 46th year of marriage.
GERMANY
Germany: Hypericum perforatum/St John’s wort
Contains: Hypericin, hyperforin, flavonoids
Benefits: Anti-depressant, menopausal symptoms and pre-menstrual symptoms, ADHD, antiinflammatory,
sleep disorders, analgesic, speeds healing of skin burns and bruises
Compared to many other
countries, Germany takes
herbs and natural
supplements pretty
seriously. For example, ST
John’s Wort is the most
prescribed anti-depressant
on the market, even over
Prozac. This pretty yellow
flower is so powerful that it
is even contraindicated
with other medications
when in use like anticoagulants,
birth control
and anti-depressants to
name a few, so make sure
you check those out before
use.
St, John’s wort or
“Johanniskraut” is very
intertwined in German
folklore. It is very name
comes from June 24th
which is St. John the
Baptist day which is also
summer solstice, and
traditionally, this plant was
harvested around this time
as it was thought to be at its
strongest. The German tribes used it on this day especially, as protection to ward off and
exorcise evil spirits-even throwing the plant in their bonfires to symbolize the light winning over
darkness. They also used St John’s wort for household protection against lightning and fires
and to ensure their livestock’s health, as well as to predict the weather-a closed flower meant
rain. St. John’s wort was also used by young women to have visions during their dreams of
their one true love by placing sprigs or wreathes made from the flower under their pillow.
GREECE
Greece: Sideritis/Greek Mountain tea
Contains: Flavonoids, Polyphenols, Iron
Benefits: Anti-oxidant, prevent anemia, ant-microbial, anti-ulcerative, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic,
decongestant, analgesic, carminative, relaxant and mood enhancing
I bought a bag of Greek mountain tea on a whim at a
grocery store in Athens without knowing anything
about it. I soon discovered it has a very pleasantly
light flowery taste. (Side note, dried Sideritis is
supposed to be fluffy and the white fuzzy stuff is
not fungus…)
The latin name of the plant Sideritis comes from the
greek word sideros which means iron. It was
supposed that in ancient Greece, the god of war
Ares had named the plant sideros which led them
to believe that the plant could heal wounds made
from iron weapons. They also used it to cure
respiratory infections and coughs and colds.
Famous Greek botanists, philosophers and
physicians such as Hippocrates, Theophrastus and
Dioskouridis documented use of this herb and it
still remains important to this day. Sidiritis still
represents resilience, strength, endurance and
perseverance due to it’s ability to grow in dry and
harsh mountain climates and terrains. Shepards in
the mountains and rural inhabitants used to be the
main ones to harvest the plant, but recently with it’s
increasing popularity both in Greece and other
parts of the world, there are worries that it may be
over harvested. So make sure to check for sustainably organic grown Sideritis when
purchasing!
ICELAND
Iceland: Cetraria islandica/ Icelandic Moss
Contains: Lichenun, using acid, fumaric acid, cetraric acid, chlorophyl
Benefits: mucilaginous, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, digestive
bitter, galactagogue, immune boost
Islandic moss has a very bitter taste, no matter how long or
short you steep it. It does however make you feel like you
are instantly getting stronger, by seemingly cutting through
your mucus like the goddess Hel’s Scythe through butter.
It’s the only way I can describe it. It stimulates your
stomach acids and clears up your lungs with your first cup.
It’s sold at almost any Icelandic gift store, grocery and
apothecary. Unfortunately, lichens also absorb pollutants
and heavy metals and so one thing to look out for when
buying it is to make sure it is sustainably picked.
Icelandic moss represented resilience and survival for it’s
ability to grow in harsh conditions. The peoples of the north
cultivated and harvested it together and then used it to
treat various ailments such as coughs, colds and digestive
issues, but they also believed that carrying some in your
pocket could reverse negative energies directed towards
you. It is also integral to the ecological balance of Iceland
and that is reflected in their belief that it brings harmony.
INDIA
India: Ocimum Sanctum/ Holy basil aka Tulsi
Contains: Saponins, flavonoids, triterpenoids, tannins, potassium, iron, magnesium, calcium,
vitamin C and B6
Benefits: Immune booster, antipyretic, analgesic, anti-cancer, anti-microbial, anti-oxidant, antiasthmatic,
anti-emetic, hepatoprotective, anti-stress, diaphoretic, hypotensive, hipolypidemic
India is well known for it’s huge selection and use of herbal medicine. Ayurveda is the oldest
form of medicine and so it was very hard to pick just one. I chose Holy Basil or Tulsi since it is
after all dubbed the “Queen of Herbs”. Tulsi definitely
fits its affectionately given name. Due to it’s vast variety
of uses, Tulsi can be the one size fits all to practically
any condition. It’s strong aroma and flavour are slightly
peppered and warm. I find Tulsi a very versatile plant
which you can always count on. Put it in food, drink as
a tea, or even just eating a basil leaf on it’s own can
instantly give you a lift. I always have a Holy Basil plant
in my home that lives in my window. I also buy some
Tulsi capsules when in Delhi that I keep with me in my
travel pharmacy and take whenever I feel a little down
or low energy.
Some of the Tulsi plant’s symbolisms are love and
devotion. This comes from an ancient Hindu story of
Vrinda, who was also the avatar of Laxmi- Lord Vishnu’s
wife. Vrinda was married to the demon king Jalandhar
and her love and devotion was so strong that it
protected him from everything. To beat Jalandhar,
Vishnu tricked Vrinda by disguising himself as Jalandhar
and seducing her, thus, conquering Jalandhar. Vrinda,
devasted from the tricky and guilt, throws herself onto
her husband’s funeral pyre and puts an end to herself.
The Lord Vishnu, touched by her devotion, then turns
Vrinda into one of the most powerful medicinal plants-
Tulsi (also known as goddess Tulasi), showing the bond
between the divine and the devoted’s faith. There are
many variations to this beautiful story, and many more
details and I recommend reading all about it! Tulsi also
represents luck, protects from bad energy and
negativity. It is connected to the third eye and brings
clarity and awareness of one’s own self.
IRELAND
Ireland: Symphytum officinale/ Comfrey, aka Knitbone/Boneset
Contains: Allantoin, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, vitamins A,C,E, B’s, potassium, selenium, zinc,
calcium, copper, iodine, iron, magnesium, manganese,
chromium, cobalt, boron
Benefits: Used topically as anti-inflammatory, helps skin
cells to grow, joint pain, bruises, arthritis, gout
I discovered Comfrey ointment which I bought in Ireland
when I pulled my lower back taking off my compression
stockings at the hotel… I was in a rush to get to shower
and sleep and probably was a little out of shape at the time.
The ointment was soothing and by the time I woke up the
next day, my back actually felt much better. But, because
comfrey contains high levels of PA’s (Pyrrolizidine
Alklaloids), especially in the roots, which are harmful to the
liver, it is more likely used topically, on unbroken skin, and
for limited periods of time.
In Irish Gaelic, comfrey is called “ Lus na gcnaimh bristle”
which means “the Herb of broken bones” as traditionally,
the Irish used comfrey to mend broken bones and heal
tissues. It can even be used to make a cast to mend broken
bones by boiling the roots and using the paste to form a
cast. It was also known as the protective herb of travellers,
both (physical and astral) preventing theft and any harm to
those who travel with it.
Comfrey shows up in a few old legends from Ireland, such
as Brighid, the Celtic goddess of home and hearth, giving
comfrey to a girl with a broken leg or the goddess Airmed
who collected from her brother Miach’s grave the 365 herbs
that grew upon it with her cloak, one being Comfrey.
ITALY
Italy: Rosmarinum/ Rosemary
Contains: Terpenoids, volatile oils, flavonoids, alkaloids, iron,
calcium, Vitamin B6
Benefits: Anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, antiopoptotic, anti-tumorigenic, antinociceptive, neuroproective
properties.
Who doesn’t love Italian food? It is made with ingredients and
herbs that are simple and yet combine so well to make some
pretty delicious dishes. Rosemary is very popular in Italian cuisine and for good reason. It’s sharp aromatic smell and distinct earthy taste with just a touch of citrus and pine is flavourful in food, teas and even breathed in from a steam inhalation for respiratory issues. Rosemary is useful for
memory, pain, anxiety, learning, sleep, and enhancing mood. There is an old folktale in Italy of a princess that comes from a Rosemary bush. Her queen mother waters the pant three times a day with her own breastmilk. When her nephew king from Spain comes and sees the bush, he steals it from her being fascinated by it. He waters it three times a day from
goats milk and plays the flute for it each time until a beautiful
Symphytum officinale/ Comfrey
Rosmarinum/ Rosemary
young woman comes out of the bush to dance with him. This continues on for a while and one day he has to leave but orders his gardener to keep taking care of it, or else he will be punished. The gardener takes good care of the bush but the king’s jealous sisters one day go to the bush and bring her out, beating her. She rushes back to the rosemary bush and it begins to wither Fromm her wounds. The gardener in a panic runs away and at night he comes across two dragons speaking of the rosemary bush and of how to make it healthy again with their blood. So, when they fall asleep, the gardener takes a bit of their blood and rubs it on the bush.
The young maiden is saved and when the king returns, he marries her and sends word to her parents in Italy.
As the tale symbolizes love and marriage, so does Rosemary to Italians. It is also given at
funerals as it is an herb for remembering.
JAMAICA
Jamaica: Piscidia piscipula/ Jamaican dogwood, aka Fishfuddle
Contains: isoflavonoids, flavonoids
Benefits: Analgesic, anti-spasmodic, sedative, antiinflammatory
Jamaican Dogweed is normally prepared as a decoction
and drank as a tea. As it is very potent and can be toxic
so it is best to start with small doses. It’s taste is very
bitter and pungent and has a slight burning sensation in
the mouth when drank. Jamaicans use this plant to ease
different types of pain from headaches and migraines to
menstrual cramps. Indigenous people and settlers often
used Jamaican dogweed to catch fish as the active
compounds in it incapacitates the fish and made them
easier to catch.
Jamaica dogweed is associated with healing and
wellness as it can be used to treat a variety of ailments.
Elders and healers have verbally passed down these
recipes for teas and tinctures and put much importance
on how the bark is collected so as to be respectful to
the tree as well as to the potency of it. It is associated
with ancestor work and keeping secrets. It is said that
the flower or the oil present can keep a conversation or
even a document secret from anyone who’s not
supposed to know it.
On a side note, here is an interesting fact behind
Jamaican dogwood that is not necessarily from Jamaica
but more from the Christian religion. It is said that the
cross that Jesus was crucified on was made by the
wood of the Piscidia piscipula and so it symbolizes
sacrifice and rebirth and the blossoms purity and
resurrection as they usually come out in the spring
around easter.
JAPAN
Japan: Glycyrrhiza glabra/ Licorice root aka kanzo
Contains: Triterpine glycoside glycerrhizen
Benefits: Anti-viral, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory,
demulcent, anti-tussive, expectorant, mild laxative
I have used Licorice Root for a cough from a cold that
would not go away, and also to help with asthmatic
coughs for family members. It is slightly bitter to the taste
and has an after taste of black liquorice. It also has
digestive aid properties which I can confirm work well.
Liquorice root, or kanzo, features in an ancient Japanese
story about Aiko, a renowned and respected healer who
had great knowledge on plants and herbs. She once cured
a village of a terrible disease that had plagued the
villagers. Aiko told them not to worry, that the kami
(mountain spirits) had provided them everything they
needed to cure any ailments. She used liquorice root to
make a decoction and cured the whole village, starting by
a young girl called Emi who had been very sick with this
illness. In celebration, the villagers held a festival
decorating their homes and village with the flowers of the
liquorice root plant.
MEXICO
Mexico: Vanilla planifolia/ Vanilla
Contains: Vanillin, calcium, phosphorus, magnesium,
potassium
Benefits: Reduce startle effect, anxiety, antioxidant, antiinflammatory,
anti-cancer, neuroprotective
Mexican Vanilla is pretty special in my opinion. Firstly, it’s
delicious and their extract and beans can be bought at very
reasonable prices. I’ve baked and cooked with it, added it to
my coffees or teas and even used it for aromatherapy and
perfume.
Mexicans have used it for these same uses as well as for
digestive aids and culturally and historically in rituals and
offerings. In Mexican folklore, the vanilla orchid plant was a
gift from the gods that grew from the blood of two lovers;
that of the goddess Xanat (the daughter of a goddess of
fertility) and a Totonac man. They fell in love and ran away to
the forest but were caught by the gods and killed for their
defiance because Xanat was of the gods and it was
forbidden for her to be with a mortal. The Mexican people
still see the Vanilla plant as a symbol of eternal love and the
union of mortal and divine worlds. The very essence and
aroma of the vanilla bean transmits a beautifully intoxicating
scent that is very representative of this legend.
NETHERLANDS
Netherlands: Foeniculum vulgare/ Fennel aka Venkel
Contains: Volatile oils, beta-carotene, Vitamin C, potassium,
phosphorus, calcium, sodium, EFA’s, magnesium
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antioxidant,
galactagogue
Fennel is not for everyone’s taste as it has a taste somewhat
similar to a black liquorice. You can directly bite into a bulb
and eat it raw, as I tried once in Amsterdam, but it’s safe to
say it is an acquired taste. Taken in a tea, eaten or eaten in
food seasoned with it, it does wonders for your digestive
system, immediately cutting through gas and bloating and
helping move along what needs help. I also tried fennel teas
when I had my first child and needed a little extra help with
milk production to keep up with my son’s feeding schedule.
The Dutch have traditionally used fennel in various ways,
medicinally for the aforementioned ailments, for it’s culinary
uses but also for protection against evil-notably witches and
evil spirits. They hung fennel above windows, doors, and
keyholes. At Midsummer celebrations, they included it in
their wreathes and bouquets during festivities as a symbol
of protection and renewal.
PORTUGAL
Portugal: Sambucus Nigra/ Elderflower, elderberry
Contains: Anthocyanins, Vitamin A, C, B6, Calcium, Iron
Benefits: Anti-oxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Anti-cancer,
Immune boost, heart health
One of my first attempts at making any of my own
herbal medicine was making Elderberry syrup. I bought
dried berries and organic honey in Lisbon for dirt cheap
and proceeded to make the syrup when I got home. My
kids did not particularly enjoy the smell as the berries
were simmering (t has a very strong particular smell as it
cooks), but once it was done, It was delicious,
comforting and boosting. Even the kids loved it. We use
it when we have colds and coughs, but also when we
feel like we need to give our immune systems a boost.
The Portuguese use it for similar reasons medicinally, as
well as for culinary uses and in making wine and cordial.
In Portuguese folklore, the Elder tree was respected and
seen as the home of fairies and other magical beings.
Having an Elder tree on one’s property brought
protection from evil energies and bad luck. If an Elder
tree was cut down disrespectfully, it would wake the anger of the beings and bring misfortune to the one
who cut it down.
Foeniculum vulgare/ Fennel
SWITZERLAND
Switzerland: Arnica Montana
Contains: Sesquiterpene lactones, essential oils, fatty
acids, thymol, flavanone glycosides
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antioxidant,
improve blood flow
No one is going to argue that Switzerland is not
expensive, but in contrast to most things, arnica can be
found in practically every apothecary and pharmacy
over the country and is decently priced. It works
extremely well in my opinion for bruising and healing
muscle soreness. I used it as a supportive treatment to
sclerotherapy for varicose veins and it was very helpful
to heal quicker and dissolve bruising faster. I took
homeopathic arnica pellets as well using using arnica
gel topically.
Arnica grows all over Switzerland’s picturesque
mountains and has been used by the people of the area
for centuries. Arnica has been considered helpful to
farmers (who also used it for their livestock), mountain
climbers to treat fatigue and injuries, as well as
traditionally and culturally to make protective amulets
and garlands as it was seen as a magical plant with
protective properties.
Make sure to use only topically on unbroken skin and
not ingested raw as it can be very toxic if not properly
dosed or diluted.
ST MAARTENS
St Maartens: Carica papaya/Papaya
Contains: Phenolics, flavonoids, alkaloids, Vitami A,C,
folate, magnesium, fiber, antioxidants
Benefits: Heart health, immune boost, anti-inflammatory,
digestion aid, antioxidant, diuretic, anti fungal,
hypoglycemic,, antihelmenthic, abortifacient, antibacterial,
vermifuge
Papaya is a delicious fruit with a beautiful rich color and
great benefits. In many of the islands, including St.
Maartens, papaya is served at every meal and snack time
since it is very helpful for digestion, specifically to digest
proteins due it’s papain enzyme content. You can even
buy papaya enzyme capsules at any health food store.
Unripe papaya is used in savoury culinary dishes and the
seeds as a substitute for pepper. They also use the seeds
to treat parasitic worms, the leaves and fruit for
inflammation and wound healing. Traditionally, the island
peoples have used the latex from the tree as well to
promote better and quicker healing of wounds and burns
and again the leaves and seeds to treat infections and
illnesses such as dengue and malaria. The papaya
symbolizes fertility and prosperity and was sometimes
used in rituals to stave off evil spirits and bad luck.
THAILAND
Thailand: Cymbopogon citratus/ Lemongrass
Contains: Flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids,
essential oils, Vitamins A, C, folate, niacin, calcium,
potassium, manganese, magnesium, iron
Benefits: Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, antiinflammatory,
nervine, diuretic, anti-viral, astringent,
antispasmodic
Lemongrass is one of the staples to Thai cuisine and if
you are a fan of Thai food, like me, you know that
lemongrass has that distinct flavour that brings out the
magic in their cuisine. Not only does it make magic on
your taste buds, but it also treats, stomach pain and
indigestion, dandruff, high cholesterol, gingivitis, thrush,
menstrual problems, headaches, muscle cramps and the
list goes on. The essential oil is also used to treat various
ailments and cool down body temperature as it is a yin
herb, but also to keep insects away-exception to honey
bees which are attracted to it.
In Thailand, you will find many temples with lemongrass
growing around it, and also around homes as it is believed
to be purifying and protective against negative energies.
Thai people also use lemongrass as an offering to deities
and ancestors as a sign of respect as well as for blessing
rituals and to shed light on hidden issues.
United Arab Emirates
Thailand: Cymbopogon citratus/ Lemongrass
Contains: Flavonoids, phenolic compounds, terpenoids,
essential oils, Vitamins A, C, folate, niacin, calcium,
potassium, manganese, magnesium, iron
Benefits: Anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, antioxidant, antiinflammatory,
nervine, diuretic, anti-viral, astringent,
antispasmodic
Lemongrass is one of the staples to Thai cuisine and if
you are a fan of Thai food, like me, you know that
lemongrass has that distinct flavour that brings out the
magic in their cuisine. Not only does it make magic on
your taste buds, but it also treats, stomach pain and
indigestion, dandruff, high cholesterol, gingivitis, thrush,
menstrual problems, headaches, muscle cramps and the
list goes on. The essential oil is also used to treat various
ailments and cool down body temperature as it is a yin
herb, but also to keep insects away-exception to honey
bees which are attracted to it.
In Thailand, you will find many temples with lemongrass
growing around it, and also around homes as it is believed
to be purifying and protective against negative energies.
Thai people also use lemongrass as an offering to deities
and ancestors as a sign of respect as well as for blessing
rituals and to shed light on hidden issues.
United KINGDOM
England: Urtica dioica/ Stinging Nettle, Common Nettle
Contains: Vitamin C, B’s, K, E, pantothenic acid, calcium,
iron, protein, phosphorus
Benefits: antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, antihypertensive,
anti-proliferative, analgesic, anti-viral,
detoxifying, galactagogue
Nettle tea is warming and feels so nutritive. You can find a
bag of nettle almost anywhere which is fitting to it’s
nickname “common nettle” and that is a comfort. After a
sleepless flight across the pond, nettle can help replace
what’s been depleted. Nettle is used for various ailments
such as iron deficiency, arthritis, gout, urinary problems,
lactating help, and allergies to name a few.
Nettle is native to England and has strong ties to English
folklore, paganism and traditional medicine-especially
women’s good household magic. Nettle was thought to
counteract witchcraft and was also associated with fairy
folklore. They believed the fairies hid from humans among
the nettle plants and so were considered sacred. It was also
one of the nine herbs from the Anglo-saxon “Nine Herbs
Charm” from 10th century England that was used to protect
against mysterious pains called “Elf-shot” thought to be
caused by the venom of arrows from the Elvin folk. Nettle in
old England was also hung above the home and carried to
prevent being struck by lightening during storms.
SCOTLAND
Scotland: Sorbus aucuparia/ Rowan tree aka Mountain
Ash
Contains: Glucose, carotenoids, potassium, calcium,
phosphorus, phenolic acids, Vitamin C, A
Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal, vasodilator,
anti-cancer, antioxidant, antibacterial, eye health,
nerviness, digestive aide, wound healing
The Rowan tree is very important in Scottish and Celtic
lore and was known as the tree of life. It grows all over
Scotland, even in the Highlands where other trees do not
reach. Scottish people have used Rowan berries as well
as the leaves and bark for many different things from
medicinal uses to culinary uses and even as dyes. The
berries can be used to make a jelly which is usually eaten
with gamey meats. It’s also made into a liqueurs and
wines. The berries themselves have a slight bitter and
sour taste and should only be eaten after cooked because
of their high astringency level.
The Scottish believed that the Rowan tree brought
protection against evil spirits and bad luck for home,
crops and livestock. It also symbolized protection against
witchcraft, fairies and enchantment. The berries have five
pointed stars opposite each stalk that resemble a
pentagram which could explain these beliefs in protection.
The Scottish also believed that the more berries came
from the tree, the more births would come for that year.
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