Meditation
Constituents. flavonoids, terpenoids, volatile oil.
Action. Adaptogen, alterative, de-toxifier, bitter, diuretic, digestant, powerful blood tonic, central nervous system relaxant, laxative, emmenagogue, Ginseng-like effect, antibiotic (ointment and dusting powder).
Uses: Mentioned in most Eastern religions and medical systems. Has a reputation for longevity. Under the name Fo-ti-tieng it was prescribed and taken by Professor Li-Ching-Yun, Chinese herbalist who died 1933 at the reputed age of 256. (Guinness Book of Records) The herb is active in Ayurvedic Medicine, having a long history for leprosy and tumour. Prominent as a mild analgesic to alleviate pains of the female generative organs, for mental illness. Some success has been reported for cancer of the cervix. In Chinese medicine it covers a wide range including infertility, insomnia, crumbling nails, impaired vision, chronic sinusitis, sexual debility and some venereal diseases (juice of the fresh leaves).
It is a medicine of some versatility. In the West it has been used for recovery from surgical operation, drug withdrawal. Addison’s disease (copper-coloured complexion), rheumatism. For skin disorders: discharging ulcers, acne, pemphigus and lupus (where not ulcerative). It is said to heal without a scar. Of value for tiredness, depression, loss of memory, and to improve the nervous system generally in Parkinson’s disease.
Recent research reports improved memory and the overcoming of stress, fatigue and mental confusion. Preparations. Average dose: half-1g. Thrice daily. Tea. Quarter to half a teaspoon to each cup boiling water; infuse 10 minutes; dose – 1 cup.
Liquid extract: 1:1. Dose – 2-4ml (half-1 teaspoon).
Bengal tincture. 1 part coarsely powdered dried plant in 5 parts by weight of strong alcohol. Macerate 8 days in well-corked bottle in a dark place; shake daily; strain; filter. Dose – 1-2 teaspoons in water.
Use for not more than 6 weeks without a break. Not used in pregnancy or epilepsy.
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