5 Healing Plants for Your August Gardens: Harnessing Solar Energy for Wellness
Late summer garden plants-moodboard by Botaniq.nl
Late summer brings a unique opportunity to explore the healing properties of sun-associated medicinal plants. These "sun remedies" harness the energy of the sun, offering potent healing properties that can warm the soul, uplift the spirit, and boost the immune system. This article is about some of the most powerful late-summer healing plants: Arnica, Calendula, Echinacea, Verbascum, and Solidago.
The Healing Properties of Sun Remedies
Sun remedies are medicinal plants that embody the sun's energy, providing various health benefits. They have been revered throughout history for their ability to heal, rejuvenate, and protect. These plants are not only powerful for physical healing but also for spiritual and emotional well-being.
ARNICA plant - Photo by Wallace Fonseca
Arnica: The Fall Herb
Scientific Name: Arnica montana
Arnica has a rich history of use in traditional medicine. It was discovered by goat herders who observed their goats seeking out its flowers to heal after injuries. Known as "Fallkraut" in German, meaning "fall herb," Arnica has been used for centuries to treat bruises, sprains, and muscle aches.
Hildegard von Bingen, a 12th-century German nun, documented the healing properties of Arnica, calling it "Wolfsgelena." The blossoms were especially potent on the summer solstice, used to ensure good harvests by spreading the power of the corn spirit.
Calendula: The Magical Healer
Scientific Name: Calendula officinalis
Calendula, also known as Marigold, has been treasured for its medicinal properties for centuries. Ancient Egyptians used it for skincare, while Greeks and Romans used it as a culinary garnish. In India, Calendula is often used in garlands for weddings and religious ceremonies, believed to have protective and prophetic powers.
Calendula is widely used for its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It is an excellent remedy for skin conditions, wounds, and infections.
Echinacea: The Immune Booster
Scientific Name: Echinacea purpurea
Echinacea, discovered by the Indigenous people of the Great Plains, has been a staple in herbal medicine for over 400 years. Known for its immune-boosting properties, Echinacea is used to prevent and treat colds, sore throats, and infections.
The roots, leaves, and flowers of Echinacea are used to make various preparations. The roots contain high concentrations of volatile oils, while the leaves and flowers are rich in polysaccharides, compounds that trigger an immune response.
Verbascum: The Light-Loving Mullein
Scientific Name: Verbascum thapsus
Verbascum, or Mullein, is a biennial plant native to Europe, northern Africa, and Asia. It thrives in sunlight and produces tall spikes of yellow flowers that smell like honey. Mullein has a long history of use in traditional medicine, dating back to Ancient Greece.
Mullein tea, made from its leaves and flowers, is known for its soothing properties and is used to treat respiratory conditions, inflammation, and infections.
Solidago: The Goldenrod Healer
Scientific Name: Solidago spp.
Solidago, commonly known as Goldenrod, is a vibrant plant that lights up late summer fields with its golden blooms. Its genus name, derived from the Latin "solidare," means "to make whole." Goldenrod has been used by Native American tribes for its anti-inflammatory, diuretic, and healing properties.
Goldenrod is effective in treating urinary tract infections, reducing inflammation, and supporting overall health.
Learn about the benefits of Solidago
Late summer is the perfect time to harness the healing power of sun remedies.
These medicinal plants, infused with the energy of the sun, offer a wide range of health benefits. Whether you're looking to boost your immune system, heal injuries, or support your overall well-being, these sun-associated plants are invaluable allies in natural healing.
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