Silene capensis / African Dream Root / Caryophyllaceae (Chickweed Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Silene undulata, African Dream Root, Undlela Ziimphlophe (Xhosa)

Description

Silene capensis is native to the river valleys of the eastern cape province of South Africa. This obscure flowering species is regarded by local shamans as a type of "Ubulawu" or medicinal root that they call "Undlela Ziimhlophe," which translates literally as "White paths" or "White ways." Its root is traditionally used to induce vivid (and according to the Xhosa, prophetic) lucid dreaming, classifying it a naturally-occurring oneirogen similar to the more well-known dream herb Calea (Calea zacatechichi). The plant exerts only minimal alterations in waking consciousness, yet the effects upon the dream state can be profound. (1)(2)

Historical

Silene capensis has been used by Xhosa diviners of South Africa for centuries. They grind the root to prepare a thick white froth, which novice diviners consume on an empty stomach to enhance lucid dreaming. Novices consume it until they fill their stomachs, washing themselves with the remaining dregs, over a three-day period at full moon. A diviner chews a small piece of the root, which has a pungent taste and smell, and spits it out on the threshold to attract clients. Diviners and novices who ingest it regularly exude a musky scented odour, not unlike that of the flower, which is attractive and even mildly hypnotic especially when they perspire after performing any vigorous activity, such as dancing or foraging for medicines. (1)

Plant Description

Silene capensis has a white, erect, trichotomously panicled flower with obtuse lobes. In spring and autumn the flower opens in the evening to exude a scented perfume and it is cross-pollinated by moths. The stem and leaves of the plant are clothed with long spreading hairs. After good rainfall, it is found growing in grassy verges on well-watered slopes and particularly on riverbanks. (1)

References

(1) Dreams and Medicines: The Perspective of Xhosa Diviners and Novices in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, by Manton Hirst
(2) Silene capensis, Wikipedia

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Dreams
Lucid Dreaming
Oneiromancy

Related Products

Dreamherb (Calea zacatechichi)
Guayusa (Ilex guayusa)
Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile (Nymphaea caerulea)

Silene capensis / African Dream Root / Caryophyllaceae (Chickweed Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Silene undulata, African Dream Root, Undlela Ziimphlophe (Xhosa)

Description

Silene capensis is native to the river valleys of the eastern cape province of South Africa. This obscure flowering species is regarded by local shamans as a type of "Ubulawu" or medicinal root that they call "Undlela Ziimhlophe," which translates literally as "White paths" or "White ways." Its root is traditionally used to induce vivid (and according to the Xhosa, prophetic) lucid dreaming, classifying it a naturally-occurring oneirogen similar to the more well-known dream herb Calea (Calea zacatechichi). The plant exerts only minimal alterations in waking consciousness, yet the effects upon the dream state can be profound. (1)(2)

Historical

Silene capensis has been used by Xhosa diviners of South Africa for centuries. They grind the root to prepare a thick white froth, which novice diviners consume on an empty stomach to enhance lucid dreaming. Novices consume it until they fill their stomachs, washing themselves with the remaining dregs, over a three-day period at full moon. A diviner chews a small piece of the root, which has a pungent taste and smell, and spits it out on the threshold to attract clients. Diviners and novices who ingest it regularly exude a musky scented odour, not unlike that of the flower, which is attractive and even mildly hypnotic especially when they perspire after performing any vigorous activity, such as dancing or foraging for medicines. (1)

Plant Description

Silene capensis has a white, erect, trichotomously panicled flower with obtuse lobes. In spring and autumn the flower opens in the evening to exude a scented perfume and it is cross-pollinated by moths. The stem and leaves of the plant are clothed with long spreading hairs. After good rainfall, it is found growing in grassy verges on well-watered slopes and particularly on riverbanks. (1)

References

(1) Dreams and Medicines: The Perspective of Xhosa Diviners and Novices in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, by Manton Hirst
(2) Silene capensis, Wikipedia

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Dreams
Lucid Dreaming
Oneiromancy

Related Products

Dreamherb (Calea zacatechichi)
Guayusa (Ilex guayusa)
Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile (Nymphaea caerulea)

Silene capensis / African Dream Root / Caryophyllaceae (Chickweed Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Silene undulata, African Dream Root, Undlela Ziimphlophe (Xhosa)

Description

Silene capensis is native to the river valleys of the eastern cape province of South Africa. This obscure flowering species is regarded by local shamans as a type of "Ubulawu" or medicinal root that they call "Undlela Ziimhlophe," which translates literally as "White paths" or "White ways." Its root is traditionally used to induce vivid (and according to the Xhosa, prophetic) lucid dreaming, classifying it a naturally-occurring oneirogen similar to the more well-known dream herb Calea (Calea zacatechichi). The plant exerts only minimal alterations in waking consciousness, yet the effects upon the dream state can be profound. (1)(2)

Historical

Silene capensis has been used by Xhosa diviners of South Africa for centuries. They grind the root to prepare a thick white froth, which novice diviners consume on an empty stomach to enhance lucid dreaming. Novices consume it until they fill their stomachs, washing themselves with the remaining dregs, over a three-day period at full moon. A diviner chews a small piece of the root, which has a pungent taste and smell, and spits it out on the threshold to attract clients. Diviners and novices who ingest it regularly exude a musky scented odour, not unlike that of the flower, which is attractive and even mildly hypnotic especially when they perspire after performing any vigorous activity, such as dancing or foraging for medicines. (1)

Plant Description

Silene capensis has a white, erect, trichotomously panicled flower with obtuse lobes. In spring and autumn the flower opens in the evening to exude a scented perfume and it is cross-pollinated by moths. The stem and leaves of the plant are clothed with long spreading hairs. After good rainfall, it is found growing in grassy verges on well-watered slopes and particularly on riverbanks. (1)

References

(1) Dreams and Medicines: The Perspective of Xhosa Diviners and Novices in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, by Manton Hirst
(2) Silene capensis, Wikipedia

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Dreams
Lucid Dreaming
Oneiromancy

Related Products

Dreamherb (Calea zacatechichi)
Guayusa (Ilex guayusa)
Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile (Nymphaea caerulea)

Silene capensis / African Dream Root / Caryophyllaceae (Chickweed Family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Silene undulata, African Dream Root, Undlela Ziimphlophe (Xhosa)

Description

Silene capensis is native to the river valleys of the eastern cape province of South Africa. This obscure flowering species is regarded by local shamans as a type of "Ubulawu" or medicinal root that they call "Undlela Ziimhlophe," which translates literally as "White paths" or "White ways." Its root is traditionally used to induce vivid (and according to the Xhosa, prophetic) lucid dreaming, classifying it a naturally-occurring oneirogen similar to the more well-known dream herb Calea (Calea zacatechichi). The plant exerts only minimal alterations in waking consciousness, yet the effects upon the dream state can be profound. (1)(2)

Historical

Silene capensis has been used by Xhosa diviners of South Africa for centuries. They grind the root to prepare a thick white froth, which novice diviners consume on an empty stomach to enhance lucid dreaming. Novices consume it until they fill their stomachs, washing themselves with the remaining dregs, over a three-day period at full moon. A diviner chews a small piece of the root, which has a pungent taste and smell, and spits it out on the threshold to attract clients. Diviners and novices who ingest it regularly exude a musky scented odour, not unlike that of the flower, which is attractive and even mildly hypnotic especially when they perspire after performing any vigorous activity, such as dancing or foraging for medicines. (1)

Plant Description

Silene capensis has a white, erect, trichotomously panicled flower with obtuse lobes. In spring and autumn the flower opens in the evening to exude a scented perfume and it is cross-pollinated by moths. The stem and leaves of the plant are clothed with long spreading hairs. After good rainfall, it is found growing in grassy verges on well-watered slopes and particularly on riverbanks. (1)

References

(1) Dreams and Medicines: The Perspective of Xhosa Diviners and Novices in the Eastern Cape, South Africa, by Manton Hirst
(2) Silene capensis, Wikipedia

Articles

Any information provided about products on this website, including any links to external websites, is purely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and should never be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the products.

Dreams
Lucid Dreaming
Oneiromancy

Related Products

Dreamherb (Calea zacatechichi)
Guayusa (Ilex guayusa)
Sacred Blue Lily of the Nile (Nymphaea caerulea)

Acorus calamus / Calamus / Araceae (Arum family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Agar Turki, Bach, Buch, Calamus Root, Cinnamon Sedge, Flag Root, Gladdon, Kalmus, Makan-Ninida, Mankan-Kereh, Rat Root, Shobu, Shui Chang, Sweet Calomel, Sweet Flag, Sweet Rush, Sweet Sedge, Vacha, Vasamber, Weekas.

Description

Calamus has a long history of use. The Sumerians and ancient Egyptians made use of it, and remains of the plant have been found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. Besides internal usage, the roots have been used as incense and as a flavor. In the bible, Exodus 30, Calamus is probably named as a an ingredient of the Holy Oil Moses made. Many of the great classical writers on medicine mention the plant: Hippocrates, Theophrastus, Dioscorides. In Ayurvedic medicine it has been used for several thousand years. Calamus is known to help calm down the mind and support the nervous system. It was also an ingredient of the Flying Brews of European witches in the Middle Ages.

Scent

Calamus is used in incense mixtures in ancient Mesopotamia and by the ancient Egyptians in their Kyphi mixtures. Calamus has a strong herbal, warm, spicy, Cinnamon-like fragrance.

Contents

Active constituents of Calamus are Monoterpene hydrocarbons, sequestrine ketones, (trans- or Alpha) Asarone (2,4,5-trimethoxy-1-propenylbenzene), and Beta-asarone (cis-isomer) contained in the roots essential oils. The oils in the rhizomes of Calamus contain eugenol and asarone. Both compounds undergo biotransformation in vivo, but asarone probably is the natural precursor to TMA-2 (2,4,5 trimethoxyphenylisopro pylamine); asarone can be converted through an aminationprocess to TMA-2. Safrole, the active constituent of Sassafras albidum undergoes a similar bioactivation-process. Because TMA-2 is structurally very similar to mescaline, amphetamine and the neurotransmitters dopamine and noradrenaline, it might replace the neurotransmitters from the storage vesicles in the nerve endings.

Historical

Calamus has been regarded as an aphrodisiac in India and Egypt for at least 2,500 years. In Europe, Calamus was valued as a stimulant, bitter herb for the appetite and as an aid to the digestion. In North America, the decoction was used for fevers, stomach cramps, and colic; the rhizome was chewed for toothache, and powdered rhizome was inhaled for congestion. In Ayurvedic medicine Calamus is an important herb, and is valued as a "rejuvenator" for the brain and nervous system, and as a remedy for digestive disorders. In Western herbal medicine the herb is chiefly employed to support digestive functions.
The Cree Indians used Calamus for medicinal purposes, primarily as an analgesic for toothaches or headaches, a disinfectant for teeth, relief for exhaustion or fatigue, and as a cure for hangovers. Other North American Indians used the plant to treat coughs and diabetes. The Sioux used the whole plant, making aromatic garlands from the leaves and using the roots to make tea to treat bowel pains or placing chewed root on the skin to treat illness. Sweet flag has also been used by the Chinese to reduce swelling and to help relieve constipation. In India, Calamus was used to cure fevers, asthma, and bronchitis. The ancient Greeks also utilized the plant in many traditional remedies. The Dakotas use Calamus to treat diabetes, and there are several reported cases where Calamus had cured people who had been given up by Western medicine. When Calamus was chewed regularly by the Indians, they would be miraculously cured within a matter of months. During the Middle Ages Calamus was an admixture in several of the ancient, psychoactive, "Witches Flying Ointments", often being mixed with solanacious herbs.

Health Warnings

Asarone is a potential carcinogenic agent. Some experiments indicate that large quantities of Calamus produce tumors in rats. The amount given to produce this effect, however, is astronomical for the weight of the rat. No ill effects have been reported in any of the Cree who use it daily. In fact, they seem to be in good health. Calamus does have emmanagogic properties and should be avoided during pregnancy. Calamus should not be taken with MAO inhibitors.

Plant Description

Acorus calamus, Sweet Flag, is a common plant in Europe, Asia and also America. This aquatic plant likes quiet waters. Calamus is a grass-like, rhizome forming, perennial that can grow to 2m high, resembling an Iris. This species inhabits perpetually wet areas like the edges of streams and around ponds and lakes, in ditches and seeps. The plants have long creeping roots that spread out just below the surface of the soil. These roots spread horizontally and can grow to almost 2m in length. The thick, erect leaves are very similar in appearance to those of an Iris, but with edges that are crimped. Plants very rarely flower or set fruit, but when they do, the flowers are 3-8cm long, cylindrical in shape, greenish brown and covered in a multitude of rounded spikes. The fruits are small and berry-like, containing few seeds. Calamus flowers from early to late summer depending on the latitude. The herb normally grows between 1000 to 3700m. Calamus can often be found growing close to Indian villages, camping areas or trails.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Norway

Panax ginseng / Ginseng / Araliaceae (Aralia family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Description

Panax ginseng is the most famous of Asian medicinal herbs. Its history goes back about 5000 years, originating in the mountains of Manchuria, China. Pere Jartoux, a Jesuit missionary stationed in Beijing, was the first westerner to give a description of Ginseng in 1709, including the usage, description, historical notes and habitat. Panax is derived from the Greek "Pan" meaning "all", and "Akos", "cure", referring to the "cure all" or "Panacea". The root is used to maintain health and to increase vitality. "Ginseng", "Jenseng" or "Schin-seng" means "Essence of the earth in the form of a man" and refers to the man-like shape of the root. Ginseng was introduced in England in 1740 by the botanist Collinson.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Finland

Typha capensis / Love Reed / Typhaceae (Reedmace family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

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Lepidium meyenii / Maca / Cruciferae (Mustard family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Peruvian ginseng, Maka, Lepidium peruvianum, Lepidium weddellii, Lepidium affine, Lepidium gelidum

Description

Maca is a root vegetable or tuber from the Mustard family. It grows in the mountains at altitudes of 3,000 meters, making it the highest cultivated plant in the world. Native Peruvians have used Maca since before the times of the Incas for nutritional and medicinal properties. This herb is a valued food that contains significant amounts of amino acids, carbohydrates, steroid glycosides, and minerals. There is evidence (2) that Maca helps to maintain sexual performance and energy. Furthermore it supports physical and mental performance and well-being.

Contents

Alkaloids, Amino Acids (Alanine, Arginine, Aspartate, Glutamine, Glycine, Histidine, OH-proline, Isoleucine, Leucine, Lysine, Methionine, Phenylalanine, Proline, Sarcosine, Serine, Threonine, Tyrosine, Valine), Fatty Acids (Lauric, Myristic, Palmitic, Palmitoleic, Linoleic, Oleic, Stearic, Arachidic, Behenic, Nervonic, Lignoceric, Tridecanoic, 7-Tridecanoic, Pentadecanoic, 7-Pentadecanoic, Heptadecanoic, 9-Heptadecanoic, Nonadecanoic, 11-Nonadecanoic, 15-Eicosenoic,), Vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, B12, C, D, & E), Minerals (Calcium, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Zinc), Sterols (Brassicasterol, Ergosterol, Ergostadienol, Campesterol, Sitosterol, Stigmasterol) Carbohydrates, Protein, benzyl isothiocyanate, p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate, â-ecdysone, Saponins, Tannins (1) .

The nutritional benevolence of Maca is regarded by some as amazing. It resembles cereal grains such as maize, rice and wheat in food value. Although composition varies according to various factors (harvest conditions, soil content, etc.), Maca has at least 5 times more protein, 4 times more fiber and less fat than a potato. It has an excellent saturated/unsaturated fat ratio (0.76: 40.1% saturated, 52.7% unsaturated) and contains 2 of the 3 (Linoleic and Oleic) essential fatty acids. It contains an exceptional amino acid profile with seven of the nine essential amino acids. It includes a variety of vitamins and minerals, and per US % Daily Value, is high in copper (100%), iron (23%) and calcium (18%). It is low calorie, low cholesterol, low sodium, low fat, and high in protein.

Historical

Maca is a true Puna plant and the only known cruciferous crop originating in the Americas. Although it has been previously reported that Maca was first domesticated about 2000 years ago by the Inca Indians, evidence suggests that it was actually domesticated during the pre-Inca Arcaicia Period (5000-1800 BC) with a date of 3800 BC. Primitive cultivars of Maca have been found in archaeological sites dating as far back as 1600 B.C. Thus, Maca has a history as a food staple for over 5800 years. Prior to the Inca's mass propagation, it was widely grown and harvested as a food source by the Pumpush, Yaros, and Ayarmaca indians.

It is unsure when the Andean Indians first began trading Maca to communities at lower elevations for other staples, but it has a history as a valued commodity. Following the Spanish Conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century, Maca was recommended by the local Indians as a feed for their domesticates that were experiencing fertility problems associated with high altitudes. The results were so notable as to warrant in-depth reports. In 1549, the visiting Spanish encomendero de Soto Mayor was given Maca as a tribute which he subsequently used to improve the fertility of livestock in Castille, and in 1572 the Chinchaycochas Indians used Maca in bartering. Spanish Colonial records indicate in one instance that 9 tons of Maca were used as a method of payment. (1)

Maca is traditionally consumed fresh or dried. The fresh roots are roasted in the field as "Huatias" or "Pachamancas" and eaten directly as one would a potato. Said to have a unique tangy taste and an aroma similar to butterscotch. The dry roots are also hydrated overnight and then parboiled in either milk or water until soft, to make a sweet aromatic porridge called "Mazamorra." The boiled roots are also mixed with fruit juice and milk to prepare a thick broth and can also be liquified to prepare juices and cocktails. In Huancayo, Peru, even Maca jam and pudding are popular. It also makes a popular fermented drink known as "Maca Chicha". This is often mixed with rum to make "Coctel de Maca".

Today, locals consume it boiled alongside dried vicuña meat in soups; or diced with carrots, peas and cauliflowers in salads. Maca flour is used to make sponge cake. Flavored with chocolate, it is made into maca puffs. Villagers offer visitors maca drinks and maca juice; airports sell maca toffees.(4)

Plant Description

The genus Lepidium belongs to the family Brassicaceae or Cruciferae, which includes approximately 175 species. The aerial part of maca has 12 to 20 leaves, and the foliage forms a mat-like, creeping system of stems that grows close to the soil. The underground portion of the plant, known as the hypocotyl, is a storage organ and is the part that is used commercially. The hypocotyl can be a variety of colors, such as red, purple, cream, yellow, or black, and is 10 to 14 cm long and 3 to 5 cm wide; a cold climate seems to be critical for its formation or growth. Maca is cultivated in a narrow, high-altitude zone of the Andes Mountains in Peru, particularly near Carhuamayo and Junin. Maca has one of the highest frost tolerances of any cultivated plant, allowing it to grow at altitudes of 3,800 to 4,800 m above sea level in the puna and suni ecosystems, where only alpine grasses and bitter potatoes can survive. (3)

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Bulgaria

References

(1) Maca, Raintree Tropical Plant Database
(2) Document: NL E4-0-C-REF, Netherlands Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport
(3) Complete Maca information, Drugs.com
(4) On a Remote Path to Cures, New York Times

Mandragora officinarum / Mandrake / Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Mandragora officinarum, Mandrake, Mandragora, Witches Drink, Thieves Root, Mad Apple, Love Apple, Satan's Apple, Luffah, Beid El-jinn.

Description

Probably no plant has had a more fantastic history than the Mandrake. As a magical plant, its extraordinary place in European folklore can nowhere be equaled. Known for its toxic and real and presumed medicinal properties, Mandrake commanded the fear and respect of Europeans throughout the Middle Ages and earlier. Its folk uses and attributes were inextricably bound up with the "Doctrine of Signatures", because of its anthropomorphic root. Mandrake has played the most important role in magic and witchcraft. Among the old Anglo-Saxon herbals Mandrake is endowed with mysterious powers against demoniacal possession.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Finland
• Norway
• Netherlands

Mandragora officinarum / Mandrake / Solanaceae (Nightshade family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Mandragora officinarum, Mandrake, Mandragora, Witches Drink, Thieves Root, Mad Apple, Love Apple, Satan's Apple, Luffah, Beid El-jinn.

Description

Probably no plant has had a more fantastic history than the Mandrake. As a magical plant, its extraordinary place in European folklore can nowhere be equaled. Known for its toxic and real and presumed medicinal properties, Mandrake commanded the fear and respect of Europeans throughout the Middle Ages and earlier. Its folk uses and attributes were inextricably bound up with the "Doctrine of Signatures", because of its anthropomorphic root. Mandrake has played the most important role in magic and witchcraft. Among the old Anglo-Saxon herbals Mandrake is endowed with mysterious powers against demoniacal possession.

Legal Remarks

This product is illegal or somehow problematic to send to the following countries. Click on the country link for further information.

• Finland
• Norway
• Netherlands

Ptychopetalum olacoides / Muira Puama / Olacaceae (Aster family)

Information

This product is not sold or intended for the purpose of human consumption or cosmetic use. Any information provided about this product on this website, including any links to external websites, are solely intended for historical, scientific and educational purposes and must not be interpreted as a recommendation for a specific use of the product. The statements contained herein have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and the product is not intended to "diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease." The use and application of this product, based on the historical and scientific context provided in the product descriptions and articles, is solely at the customer's risk. This product is a botanical specimen of ethnographic value and interest only and is delivered with no express or implied fitness for any purpose. The product descriptions are compiled from sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated. It outlines the documented history of uses but should no way be construed to make any medical claims about the ability or efficacy of any of these plants to treat, prevent or mitigate any disease or condition. Although a plant may have a long history of being used for a particular purpose, scientific evidence proving its efficacy for that purpose may be lacking.

Other Names

Potency Wood, Marapuama, Marapama, Muiratã, Muiratam, Pau-Homen, Potenzholz.

Description

Ptychopetalum olacoides is a small tree native to the Amazon rainforest. Muira Puama is also called "potency wood", referring to its main usage as an Aphrodisiac in South American folk medicine. Muira Puama is in the Brazilian, English and German herbal pharmacopoeia and also used in the United States by herbal practitioners. Muira puama has a long history of use, primarily for strengthening libido and sexual function.

Contents

The main plant chemicals found in Muira Puama include: alpha-copaene, alpha-elemene, alpha-guaiene, alpha-humulene, alpha-muurolene, alpha-pinene, alpha-resinic acid, alpha-terpinene, arachidic acid, allo-aromadendren, behenic acid, beta-bisabolene, beta-caryophyllene, beta-pinene, beta-resinic acid, beta-sitosterol, beta-transfarnesene, borneol, campesterols, camphene, camphor, car-3-ene, caryophyllene, cerotic acid, chromium, coumarin, cubebene, delta-cadinene, dotriacontanoic acid, elixene, ergosterols, eugenol, essential oils, gamma-muurolene, hentriacontanoic acid, heptacosanoic acid, lignoceric acid, limonene, linalool, lupeol, melissic acid, montanic acid, muirapuamine, myrcene, nonacosanoic acid, para-cymene, pentacosanoic acid, phlobaphene, stigmasterols, trichosanic acid, and uncosanic acid.(2)

Synergic Combinations

Muira Puama is sometimes combined with Catuaba, Damiana or Horny Goat Weed in various formulas on the market.

Historical

Historically, all parts of muira puama have been used medicinally, but the bark and roots are the most-utilized parts of the plant. It has long been used in the Amazon by indigenous peoples for a number of purposes. In Brazilian herbal medicine, muira puama still is a highly-regarded sexual stimulant with a reputation as a powerful aphrodisiac. It has been in the Brazilian Pharmacopoeia since the 1950s. Early European explorers noted the indigenous uses and the aphrodisiac qualities of muira puama and brought it back to Europe, where it has become part of herbal medicine in England. Muira puama has been gaining in popularity in the United States among herbal practitioners.(2)(3)

Plant Description

Ptychopetalum olacoides is a small tree that grows to 5 m high and is native to the Brazilian Amazon and other parts of the Amazon rainforest. The small, white flowers have a pungent fragrance similar to jasmine's. The Ptychopetalum genus is a small one - only two species of small trees grow in tropical South America and five in tropical Africa. The two South American varieties, P. olacoides (found in Brazil, French Guiana, Guyana, and Suriname) and P. uncinatum (found only in Brazil), are used interchangeably in South American herbal medicine systems.(1)(2)

References

(1) Ptychopetalum, Wikipedia
(2) Muira Puama, Raintree
(3) Fytotherapeutisch compendium J van Hellemont

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Maya`s Aphrodite Mix (Maya`s Aphrodite Mix)
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Sarsaparilla (Smilax officinalis)
Caltrop (Tribulus terrestris)
Damiana (Turnera aphrodisiaca)
Love Reed (Typha capensis)