Garlic (Allium sativum)

Parts used: bulb (flowers are edible)

Medicinal uses: Garlic has been used since before the invention of antibiotics for the treatment of many infections from tuberculosis to typhoid. It was also used to dress wounds in the World War I. it is an excellent remedy for all types of chest infections. It is good for colds, flu, and ear infections, and it helps to reduce mucus. Digestive infections also respond well with garlic. It can also help rid the body of intestinal parasites. Garlic prevents circulatory problems and strokes by keeping the blood thin. It lowers cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Garlic may be taken to support conventional antibiotics and to ward off their side effects. It also reduces blood sugar levels and can help in late onset diabetes (Chevallier 59).

Additional uses: The dried flower heads can be used in flower arrangements. As a companion plant garlic is considered to help control pests, especially aphids (Kowalchik 218).

Nutritional information: An excellent source of vitamin B6. It is a very good source of manganese, selenium, and vitamin C. it is also a good source of phosphorus, calcium, potassium, iron, and copper (Murray 201).

Cautions: Use caution if taking hypertensive or blood thinning medication (Chevallier 59).

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Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium)

Parts used: aerial portions

Medicinal uses: May be used to lower temperature and cool the body. Historically the plant has been used to induce menstruation and can be used to aid difficult births by aiding the expulsion of the placenta. In small quantities it can be used to prevent migraines. It is useful for migraines associated with menstruation and for headaches. The herb can also help arthritic and rheumatic pain (Chevallier 140).

Additional uses: The dried flowers can be used in flower arrangements. The fresh leaves and stems produce a greenish yellow dye in wool mordanted with chrome (Kowalchik 193).

Cautions: Eating fresh leaves may cause canker sores. Do not take feverfew if taking warfarin or other blood thinning drugs. Do not take if pregnant or breastfeeding (Chevallier 140).

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Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus spp.)

Parts used: leaves

Medicinal uses: A traditional Aboriginal remedy for infections and fevers. The herb is an antiseptic and is very helpful for colds, flu, and sore throats. A strong expectorant which makes it useful for chest infections including bronchitis and pneumonia. The diluted essential oil, applied to the skin as a chest or sinus rub, has a warming and slightly anesthetic effect, helping to relieve respiratory infections. This can also be experienced by using an infusion or tincture as a gargle. The diluted essential oil can also be used for pain relief. It can be applied to the affected area to relieve rheumatic joints as well as neuralgia and some bacterial skin infections (Chevallier 98).

Additional uses: The dried leaves and small branches can be used in potpourris as well as in flower arrangements (Kowalchik 186).

Cautions: Do not give to small children or infants (Chevallier 98).

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Elderberry (Sambucus spp.)
There are native and invasive, non-native speicies of Elderberry in Portland

Parts used: flowering tops, berries

Medicinal and other uses: Flowers used to treat colds and catarrh of the upper respiratory tract and hay fever. Dried fruits or fresh juice are used as an analgesic, diuretic, laxative and diaphoretic in cases of feverish catarrhal conditions. Flowers used in herbal teas and remedies, and for light alcoholic beverages. Berries are used as a natural coloring agent in food products. Yellow and violet dyes can be made from the leaves and berries.

Cautions: It is best to eat cooked ripe berries rather than raw. The roots, stems, and leaves are said to contain cyanogenic glucosides which are substances that release cyanide, care should be taken when ingesting (Kowalchik 178-9).

Pacific Northwest Medicinal Plant Guide (Check out all plants growing in Tryon Farm's medicinal garden!)