Chris Habib, Author at Herbal Clinic

Shepherd’s Purse

Capsella Bursa-Pastoris

Personal Note: Shepherd’s Purse has a long traditional use as what we call a “styptic”, used to staunch bleeding, particularly after delivery. Although not commonly used for other actions, Shepherd’s Purse is also a useful alterative in skin disorders.

Description

Shepherd’s purse is known for its triangular, purse-like pods and is a member of the mustard (Brassicaceae) family. In traditional Austrian medicine it has been used internally as a tea or tincture to teat skin disorders, cardiovascular and gynecological conditions.

Common Medical Uses

Post-partum hemorrhage
Excess menstrual flow or to stimulate menstrual flow
Topical bleeding lesions

How To Consume

Tincture
Infusion

Works well with – This herb is sometimes used as a single, specific, for post-partum bleeding. It can be used in combo with Yarrow, and perhaps some Old Man’s Beard (the herb, not an actual old man’s beard), to further help with bleeding.

Selenecereus Grandiflorus

Night Blooming Cereus

Personal Note: A useful herb in lowering blood pressure, Cereus is often used in combo with other cardiovascular herbs or alteratives.

Description

Selenecereus grandiflorus is a species of Night Blooming Cereus originating from Mexico and Central America. It blooms only once a year, for a single night. Its principal action is upon the circular muscle fibers of the heart and arterioles making it a useful cardiotonic and hypotensive.

Common Medical Uses

Angina pectoris

Hypertension

Congenital heart failure

How To Consume

Tincture

Works well with – I like Cereus with Hawthorn, Lily of the Valley, Linden, and perhaps some Gingko.