Celandine

I first learned about this herb from a Latvian nurse. This herb, which grows inconspicuously in our wastelands, has a small, brilliant yellow blossom, and the stem exudes a vivid yellow juice when cut or bruised. A tincture of this herb made from the entire plant is considered a virtual panacea by some peoples of Eastern Europe. They use eight to ten drops of the tincture steeped in brandy or ninety proof spirit or eight to ten drops of the fresh expressed juice three times a day to overcome sluggish liver, for neuralgia of the face and head, or neuralgia of the shoulder, especially on the right side of the body. It is also useful when there is a thick urine, or clay like stools and constipation. The prepared tincture is available from many pharmacies with European clientele. Use in moderation and for limited time periods. The juice of the living plant is also a great wound remedy to allay pain (celandine is a member of the poppy family) and is an old and effective wart remedy.