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Herbal Healer: What is winter's bark?
Named not after the bleakest of the four seasons but rather after a 16th-century British sea captain, this tree thrives in Chile and Argentina. As part of Sir Francis Drake's globe-circling fleet, Captain John Winter returned to England with a stock of the medicine-rich bark. Brimming with vitamin C, this herb would help to prevent scurvy on countless voyages over the next several centuries.
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Winter's bark is best noted for its excellent results when dealing with stomach and intestinal ailments, such as dysentery and colic. Brazilian healers also use this versatile herb for toothache, anemia, feverish conditions and dermatitis. In some parts of the Amazon, winter's bark substitutes for quinine in treating malaria. This botanical helps contend with nausea and it is sought for its ability to reduce spasms. Research exploring traditional folk medicine's employ of winter's bark for certain cancers may yet open a few doors.
ABOUT THE HERB
Rising to a height of 50 feet, the evergreen tree that provides winter's bark herb tea features glossy leaves that produce a spicy, peppery aroma when crushed. Between late winter and mid spring one-inch white flowers with yellow centers appear in clusters on the tips of the branches. Cinnamon-colored, the bark imparts a delightful scent, while the flower offers a hint of jasmine. A blue-colored berry emerges subsequent to the plant's annual blooming.
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Enjoy one cup of this herbal brew up to three times daily to improve digestion, expel gas or combat allergies. The powdered bark also has anti-inflammatory properties. Indeed, two chemical compounds discovered in winter's bark were scientifically proven to address pain more effectively than either aspirin or acetaminophen.
Source: nwi.com