the wild pharmacy

by Deanna Millard

There is a lot to be said in favour of man and nature working together. Take for example the small pond at the bottom of Clissold Park. In the space of a few years and with some well thought-out planting, it has been transformed from a stark, lifeless puddle into a lush oasis of plant and animal life.

On my quest to discover some of Clissold’s medicinal plants it was naturally my first port of call. It was good to see a large population of Gypsywort (Lycopus europaeus) thriving in the damp margins. The juice of the plant yields a blackish dye, which was once used by Gypsies to darken their skin and appear African – in the 1500s, Africans were viewed in a better light than the much maligned Gypsies. Medicinally, the whole plant is used as a sedative and is a very important remedy in the treatment of thyroid dysfunction. It effectively lowers an overactive thyroid gland and calms a racing or palpitating heart.

A section of the pond is enhanced by the presence of hops (Humulus Lupulus) rambling through the bushes. The female flowers, the parts used for brewing beer, are a classic remedy for insomnia and all cases of nervousness. The flowers are used fresh, or dried as a tea or stuffed into a pillow to ensure a deep and restful night’s sleep. Due to their richness in oestrogen, they are used to lessen ‘excessive sexual urges’ in men (hence brewers droop) whilst female hop pickers notice the early arrival of their period.

Often described as a mean or disappointing plant, it is easy to pass by without noticing the mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris). Yet to the Druids and other ancient traditions of Europe (and later even the Christians) it was highly esteemed as a medicine and for its positive effects on the mind. It was also valued as a protection against evil influences and often hung above doors to prevent diseases or possession. Mugwort is mildly stimulating and is a general tonic, especially to the liver and digestive system and can dispel roundworm and threadworm. In the Chinese practice of moxibustion the smoke of the burning plant is used to clear stagnation, regulate the flow of Qi (life energy) and relieve pain.

Recognisable by its geraniumlike leaves, blood red stems and small pink flowers is Herb Robert (Geranium robertianum). It has astringent properties and will stem blood flow when taken internally as well as tone the digestive and urinary systems. This explains its use for diarrhoea, blood in the urine, bedwetting and urinary incontinence. It is a good addition to herbal pessaries when abnormal cervical cells are detected and as part of a broader treatment for cervical cancer.

There are in excess of forty species of plant and tree surrounding the little pond that have medicinal and/or nutritional value and the park has many other areas where nature is allowed to work her magic. The organic vegetable garden and flower borders speak for themselves, but the ‘river’ in front of the house (appreciated more for the ducks and terrapins) is surrounded by an area of uncultivated earth which is plastered with burdock (Arctium lappa) growing as a weed. The root is a powerful blood cleanser and anti-cancer remedy, as well as treating all kinds of skin problems. As a herbalist, it is one of my most prescribed remedies…in fact, I wonder if they need a hand with the weeding?

Contact Deanna at The Healthy Living Centre on 020 7249 2990, privately on 020 7503 4672 or visit www.n16health.com