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sources we deemed to be reliable up to the date it was written but may contain omissions or errors in fact, or become outdated.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)

Aqua Florida

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

Aqua Florida, Florida Water, Florida water cologne, Agua Florida, Agua de Florida.

Description

Florida Water is a 19th century formula for a commercially-prepared toilet water that blends an array of floral essential oils in a water-alcohol base. It has become popular worldwide, not only because of its delightful fragrance but also because of the more than twenty uses attributed to it. It is believed to have cleansing and protective properties and to attract healing spirits. Florida Water is often used by shamans in Ayahuasca ceremonies.

Scent

Components of the scent include citrus and herbal notes along with spice and floral undertones. These delightful elements are provided by Bergamot, Neroli, Lemon, Cloves, Cinnamon, Lavender, Rose and Orange flower. When the fragrance is first applied the delicious citrus notes are most dominant, then the Cloves move to the front and the scent settles into an incredibly appealing dry spice.

Aromatic Properties

Skin refreshing, muscle and nerve toning, personal deodorant, (sick)room deodorant, spiritual cleaning, home protection, for clearing and balancing energy and also as an offering to the spirits when opening sacred space or praying for assistance.

Historical

Florida water is one of the oldest patented colognes still sold today. It first appeared in the United States in 1808. The name refers to the fabled "Fountain of Youth" said to have been located in Florida. It is remarkable that this commercial cologne should have assumed such a central role not only in the shamanism of the Peruvian Amazon, but also for magical purposes among people of African-diaspora descent in the United States and the Caribbean. Bottles of Agua de Florida can be found equally on the mesas of Amazonian healers and on the altars of Vodou priestesses in Brooklyn. Shamans often place perfumes and colognes on the bodies of patients, as crosses on their forehead, chest, and back, whistling a special song of protection, to seal, close, and protect the body. There is a type of shaman in the Amazon called a "Perfumero", who specializes in the use of such scents to attack, to heal, and to attract. (1) (2)

References

(1) Strong Sweet Smells, by Steve Beyer, from Singing to the Plants: Shamanism and the Medicine Path.
(2) Still Making a Splash They Say That Old-Fashioned Florida Water Cures What Ails Ya - And Smells Good, Too, By Lenore Skenazy, NY Daily News.
(3) Florida Water, Lanman & Kemp-Barclay & Co., Inc.

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.

Fountain of Youth

Related Products

Aqua Florida Soap (Aqua Florida Soap)

Bali Flower Blend

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

Bali Flower Blend is a fragrant mixture of finely powdered Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) and Frangipani (Plumeria alba) flowers from Bali, Indonesia. It can be used as potpourri or burned as incense on Charcoal Disks, or added to massage oils.

Contents

This mixture contains Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata) and Frangipani (Plumeria alba) flowers.

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Champaca (Michelia champaca)
Frangipani (Plumeria spp)

Juniperus indica / Black Juniper / Cupressaceae (Cypress 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

Juniperus indica, Black Juniper, Dhupi, Dhu-pi, Indian Juniper.

Description

Juniperus indica (Black Juniper) is a juniper, native to high altitudes the Himalaya, occurring from the northern Indus Valley in Kashmir east to western Yunnan in China. It is of interest as the highest altitude woody plant known, reported growing as high as 5200m in southern Tibet; the lowest limit being 2600m. As it grows in these regions it is also known in Ayurvedic medicine. It is also used as an incense or as ingredient in incense sticks.

Scent

A fresh, yet warm, rich-balsamic, woody, sweet and pine needle-like fragrance.

Aromatic Properties

Juniperus indica fragrance is used in aromatherapy for relief of anxiety, insomnia and stress.

Contents

Sabinene, beta-thujone, terpinen-4- and trans-sabinyl acetate.

Plant Description

It is a shrub growing to 50-200cm tall, with largely horizontal branching. The leaves are dark grey-green, dimorphic, with adult plants having mostly scale-like leaves 1-3mm long, while young plants have mostly needle-like leaves 5-8mm long, but needle-like leaves can also be found on shaded shoots of adult plants. The leaves are borne in whorls of three on strong stout main stem shoots, and opposite pairs on thinner, slower-growing shoots. It is dioecious, with male (pollen) and female (seed) cones on separate plants. The mature seed cones are ovoid, berry-like, 6-10mm long, glossy black, and contain a single seed; the seeds are dispersed by birds which eat the cones, digest the fleshy cone pulp, and excrete the seeds in their droppings.

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• Australia

Michelia champaca / Champaca / Magnoliaceae (Magnolia 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

Champaka, Champak, Champac, Champa, Sampige, Shamba.

Description

Michelia champaca is an evergreen tree, native to South and Southeast Asia. It is best known and cultivated for its strongly fragrant yellow or white flowers. The flowers are used in Southeast Asia for several purposes. They are floated in bowls of water to scent the room, as a fragrant decoration for bridal beds, and for garlands and hair ointments. The flower is the main scent present in the commercial "joy" perfume, and is sometimes commonly called the "joy perfume tree".

Scent

Champaca has an intense, intoxicating, sweet, floral aroma that acts as a fragrant magnet. On warm humid nights, the scents can easily be enjoyed several hundred feet away. Even just driving by in your car, you will notice the scent immediately.

Aromatic Properties

Champaca emits a unique warm fragrance which promotes a peaceful state, reducing stress and allowing one to relax and breathe easily. It is especially useful for moments of tranquil contemplation. Champaca's nature is to remind us of the Divine in all things.

Contents

The essential oil of Champaca contains 1-Linalol, Eugenol, Methyl-Eugenol, Methyl- and Ethyl-Ethers. It is one of the most expensive in the world because it requires many flowers to produce.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Rose, Frangipani, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang, Neroli, Sandalwood and other floral scents.

Historical

Champaca is an important flower in many Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and India. It is used in Ayurveda, ceremonies and massages, and is often planted near temples. It is considered sacred to the god Vishnu. In Bali the flowers are put in water, which is used in house cleansing and praying rituals. An extract of the flowers is used in perfumes, incense sticks, aromatherapy, cosmetics, soaps, food flavors. All parts of the plant are used in alternative medicine for a variety of ailments.

Plant Description

Champaca is a tree related to Magnolia. It has alternate, lanceolate leaves to over 20 cm long that are slightly curved. The flowers are fragrant, a mustard yellow colour, and in each flower the ovaries are free from one another. The central stalk or receptacle elongates and bears the developing fruits along it. When fully developed each individual fruit is about 2.5 cm long, with a reddish tinge and whitish pustules; this follicle opens to release orange-red seeds.

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Sandalwood (Santalum album)

Theobroma cacao / Cocoa / Sterculiaceae (Cacao 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

Chocolate is a natural product made from the bean of the cacao tree Theobroma cacao. The seeds are dried and roasted and then processed to form cocoa, the basic ingredient in chocolate and chocolate products. When boiled in milk, or milk and water, it is much used as an occasional substitute for coffee, and for a drink at meals. The callets are round drops of chocolate. They are the ideal aid to produce perfectly tempered chocolate quickly and efficiently. They are also the best solution for applications requiring fast melting or the addition of small quantities of chocolate.

Contents

Cocoa beans contain about 2% theobromine, small amounts of caffeine, flavanoids, phenethylamine, vitamins (A, B1, B2, B3, C, E and pantothenic acid) and minarls (megnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, copper, potassium, manganese). Cocoa beans contain approximately 50% fat, primarily comprised of two saturated fatty acids, palmitic and stearic acids, and the mono unsaturated oleic acid.

Historical

Cacao was named Theobroma by Linnaeus, which literally translates as "Cocoa, food of the Gods".
The Aztecs, Mayas and Toltecs believed that the cocoa tree was indeed a gift from the Gods.
The word cacao is derived from Olmec and the subsequent Mayan languages (kakaw); the chocolate-related term cacahuatl is Nahuatl (Aztec language), derived from Olmec/Mayan etymology, meaning "bitter water".
Cacao beans were used by the Aztecs to prepare to a hot, frothy beverage with stimulant and restorative properties.
Chocolate itself was reserved for warriors, nobility and priests. The Aztecs esteemed its reputed ability to confer wisdom and vitality. Taken fermented as a drink, chocolate was also used in religious ceremonies. The sacred concoction was associated with Xochiquetzal, the goddess of fertility.
Emperor Montezuma (1502-1520) allegedly drank 50 goblets a day. Aztec taxation was levied in cacao beans. 100 cacao beans could buy a slave. 12 cacao beans bought the services of courtesan.
"The divine drink, which builds up resistance and fights fatigue. A cup of this precious drink cocoa permits a man to walk for a whole day without food." --Montezuma II
Legend has it that Montezuma II was the first to discover chocolate ice and sent his runners to the heights of the volcano to bring back blocks of snow over which thick chocolate was poured, whipped, and served as chilled froth. When the ambassadors of Cortes encountered the Aztec Emperor, he was at the breakfast table shielded by a rich screen. Servants were filing by in endless procession with tempting delicacies. The most frequent (and most favoured) offering was a steaming aromatic drink named "cacahuatl". This beverage was made from water and cacao seeds - so valuable that they were used as currency in parts of Mexico and so costly that only royalty could afford them.
The finest chocolate confectionery, containing pure chocolate liquor, with its remarkable nutritional constituents, is also the most nourishing; in the South African War and World Wars I and II, solid chocolate was issued as standard rations for the troops and given by Queen Victoria as a Christmas gift to all her fighting men.
The first chocolate factory in the United States opened in 1765 in the Massachusetts Bay Colony. In 1805, Conrad Van Houten, a dutch chemist, invented a cacao press that created confections of cocoa butter and sugar. In 1876, Daniel Peter, a Swiss candymaker, developed milk chocolate by adding condensed milk to chocolate liquor, giving it a smoother texture through a process called conching (referring to the shape of the mixing vats).

Plant Description

Cacao (Theobroma cacao), or the cocoa plant, is a small (4–8 m or 15–26 ft tall) evergreen tree in the family Sterculiaceae (alternatively Malvaceae). Native to southern Mexico (Veracruz, Chiapas), Guatemala, Belize; now cultivated pantropically, especially in West Africa, Ceylon, Java.
Cocoa beans are found in the fruit, or pods, of the cacao trees; each nine-inch pod contains 20 to 50 beans. The annual yield per tree is between 20 and 30 fruit pods. When seeds are ripe they rattle in the capsule when shaken; if separated from the capsule they soon become infertile, but if kept therein they retain their fertility for a long time.
After the cacao beans are removed from the fruit, they undergo fermentation, a process that reduces their bitterness and helps develop their heady aroma. After they are dried the beans are ready to be processed into chocolate products.

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.

Theobroma cacao - Cacao Web
Theobroma cacao - Erowid
Theobroma Cacao - Wikipedia

Dacryoides peruviana / Copal / Burseraceae (Copal 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

This copal (Dacryoides peruviana), is traditionally used in Peru and Mexico as an incense to repel bad spirits. Copal is used after dying to protect and guide the departed soul to the light.

Dacryoides peruviana / Copal / Burseraceae (Copal 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

This copal (Dacryoides peruviana), is traditionally used in Peru and Mexico as an incense to repel bad spirits. Copal is used after dying to protect and guide the departed soul to the light.

Rosa Damascena / Damask Rose / Rosaceae (Rose 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.

Plumeria spp / Frangipani / Apocynaceae (Dogbane 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

"Kembang Kamboja" in Indonesia, "Temple Tree" or "Champa" in India, "Kalachuchi" in the Philippines, "Araliya" or "Pansal Mal" in Sri Lanka, "Champa" in Laos, "Lantom" or "Leelaawadee" in Thai, "Cacalloxochitl" in Nahuatl.

Description

Plumeria is a small genus of 7-8 species, which are native to tropical and subtropical Americas and have spread to all tropical areas of the world. Plumeria produces strongly fragrant flowers which are used in some expensive perfumes. The flowers are also important symbols in many cultures. Frangipani is known as the Tree of Life in India as a branch cut from the tree will continue to blossom and will grow into a new tree when placed in the ground. Frangipani was a favourite flower of Lord Krishna.

Scent

Frangipani's rich, heady, exotic scent has a deep expansive quality which encourages a sensual almost provocative response.

Aromatic Properties

Frangipani is particularly valued for its emotionally uplifting properties. It soothes many emotional problems and can help those who working through psychological blockages associated with love and sexual fulfilment. It is thought to restore inner peace and harmony which guides one to honour the sacred in intimacy. Frangipani's nature is to remind us of the beauty of our soul's infinite journey.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with Vetiver, Agarwood, Champaca, Ylang Ylang and Sandalwood.

Historical

Frangipani, also known as Plumera, is one of the most delightful members of the Apocynacea or Dogbane family. Its delicate, silken flowers appear in a myriad of variation and its enchanting fragrance can be described as the mother of all perfumes - it is nectar for the Gods. In India, Bali and other tropical countries it is indeed held sacred and present at every ceremony. But most of all it is sacred to Krishna. Frangipani trees are frequently planted in temple grounds, which has earned them the name "Pagoda trees". In India, they are also often planted near graves and revered as a "Tree of Life" that symbolizes the eternal life of the soul. The Maya of Central America also hold this tree sacred. The red and white varieties represent the sun and the moon respectively. Shamans use the flower water of Frangipani as an offering to the Gods. In Mexico, the Nahuatl (Aztec language) name for this plant is "cacalloxochitl" which means "crow flower." It was used for many medicinal purposes such as salves and ointments.
In several Pacific islands, such as Tahiti, Fiji, Hawaii, Tonga and the Cook Islands Plumeria is used for making leis. In modern Polynesian culture, it can be worn by women to indicate their relationship status - over the right ear if seeking a relationship, and over the left if taken.
Frangipani received its name from a perfume invented by the Marquis Frangipani, Marechal des Armees of Louis XIII of France. It was composed of every spice known until Plumeria (Frangipani) was discovered. The scent of Frangipani was the perfect perfume, a million times better than all other scents put together. Henceforth, the perfume was made from Frangipani and the tree was named after the Marquis.

Plant Description

Plumeria is related to the Oleander, Nerium oleander, and both possess poisonous, milky sap, rather similar to that of Euphorbia. Each of the separate species of Plumeria bears differently shaped leaves and their form and growth habits are also distinct. The leaves of P. alba are quite narrow and corrugated, while leaves of P. pudica have an elongated oak shape and glossy, dark green color. P. pudica is one of the everblooming types with non-deciduous, evergreen leaves. Another species that retains leaves and flowers in winter is P. obtusa.
Plumeria flowers are most fragrant at night in order to lure sphinx moths to pollinate them. The flowers have no nectar, and simply dupe their pollinators. The moths inadvertently pollinate them by transferring pollen from flower to flower in their fruitless search for nectar.
Plumeria species are easily propagated by taking a cutting of leafless stem tips in Spring and allowing them to dry at the base before inserting them into soil. They are also propagated via tissue culture both from cuttings of freshly elongated stems and aseptically germinated seed.(1)

References

(1) Plumeria, Wikipedia

Related Products

Ylang Ylang (Cananga odorata)
Champaca (Michelia champaca)

Ilex guayusa / Guayusa / Aquifoliaceae (Holly 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

Aguayusa, Huayusa, Guañusa, Guayyusa, Wayusa.

Description

Guayusa is used by people of the Amazon basin to make an energizing tea and as a herbal medicine. It also has the interesting effect of inducing lucid dreaming. For this reason, it is known as the "watchman's plant", as even when sleeping you are aware of your external surroundings. For those interested in shamanic dreaming this is certainly the plant to explore. It is used along with Ayahuasca to help ease bitterness, to stay awake during Ayahuasca ceremonies, and to help prevent hangover effects (2).

Contents

Caffeine (~2%)

Historical

The first account of the use of Guayusa is from a letter by Lucero from 1683, describing the activities of medicine men of the Jívaro Indians in drinking certain beverages during the performance of their medico-magical rites: "They put together these evil herbs (Datura, Banisteriopsis, and other narcotic plants], with Guañusa and Tobacco, also invented by the devil, and allow them to boil until the small remaining quantity of juice becomes the quintessence of evil, and the faith of those who drink it is rewarded by the devil with the fruit of malediction, and always to the great misfortune of many..."
The Jívaro Indians were, according to Lucero, well disposed people of good physical appearance. "To maintain themselves at their best, they were accustomed to drink a decoction of an herb called Guayusa, similar to Laurel, several times daily. They were thus able to stay awake without losing consciousness for many nights, when they feared invasion by enemies". The Jívaro Indians also attribute to Guayusa a narcotic or hypnotic effect for inducing Pequeños sueños ("Little dreams"), and for knowing in advance whether a hunting expedition will be successful.
Guayusa was known not only in the Ecuadorian-Peruvian sector of the east Andean foothills, but in the Putumayo-Caquetá belt of Colombia too. From observations made during the decade 1756-1767, the Majorcan missionary Juan Serra notes "Guayusa has the color of dark honey, and five leaves are enough to make a Chocolate-pot full of its juice. Its taste is like tea but finer and more pleasant. When I drank it, I began to sweat and expectorate so much that I was obliged to change my habit, and within half an hour coughed enough phlegm to fill a large cup. These effects seemed to me to be very good." (1)

Plant Description

Ilex guayusa is a Holly species, in a family of over 450, which are widely distributed in both hemispheres. Most grow in tropical Central and South America. Ilex is among the largest of holly trees, cultivated for their caffeine content (2).

References

(1) Guayusa, a neglected stimulant from the eastern andean foothills, Victor Manual Patino
(2) The healing forest, medicinal and toxic plants of the northwest Amazonia, Schultes and Raffauf

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.

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Lavandula angustifolia / Lavender / Lamiaceae (Mint 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

Lavandula angustifolia, Lavandula spica, Lavandula vera, Common Lavender, English lavender, True lavender, Lavendel, Lavanda, Lavandîna, Lavendin, Levandula, Laventeli, Lavandula, Levanta, and Lavender.

Description

Lavender is a very versatile plant. It is widely grown in gardens. Flower spikes are used for dried flower arrangements. The fragrant, pale purple flowers and flower buds are used in potpourri. The flowers yield abundant nectar which yields a high quality honey for beekeepers. Lavender is also used as a herb, either alone or as an ingredient of "Herbes de Provence". Lavender is used to flavour sugar, the product being called "Lavender sugar", and the flowers are sometimes sold in a blend with black tea, as "Lavender tea".
Lavender is known to support relaxation and physical and mental well-being. It also helps digestion.(1) The plant is grown commercially for extraction of Lavender essential oil from the flowers, which is used in medicine and aromatherapy.

Scent

A pleasant sweet fragrance. It has a green, hay-like sweetness and gives "fruity aspects" in perfumes and other scented products. Perfume-note: Middle to Top.

Aromatic Properties

Lavender used in aromatherapy activates the crown chakra and stimulates activity of the medulla oblongata, bringing mental alertness. It is cleansing to all meridians and can be used effectively running the meridians. It can help open visionary states and helps establish emotional balance. Effective in meditation to determine the emotional blocks or conflicts that are creating health problems. Promotes consciousness, health, love, and peace. Calming, helps relieve pain.

Contents

The primary components of Lavender oil are linalool and linalyl acetate. Other components include alpha-pinene, limonene, 1,8-cineole, cis- and trans-ocimene, 3-octanone, camphor, caryophyllene, terpinen-4-ol and lavendulyl acetate.

Synergic Combinations

Blends well with: Bergamot, Clove, Rosemary, Eucalyptus, Patchouli, Clary Sage, Rose, Jasmine, Citrus Oils, Chamomile, Geranium.

Historical

The historic use and recognition of Lavender is almost as old the history of man. As a herb, Lavender has been in documented use for over 2,500 years. In ancient times Lavender was used for mummification and perfume by the Egyptians, Phoenicians, and peoples of Arabia. The ancient Greeks called the lavender herb "Nardus", after the Syrian city of Naarda. It was also commonly called "Nard". During Roman times, flowers were sold for 100 denarii per pound, which was about the same as a month's wages for a farm labourer, or fifty haircuts from the local barber. When the Roman Empire conquered southern Britain, the Romans introduced Lavender.
The name Lavender comes from the Latin root Lavare , which means "to wash." Lavender most likely earned this name because it was frequently used in baths to help purify the body and spirit.
During the height of the Plague, glove makers would scent their leathers with Lavender oil, and this was claimed to ward off the Plague. This story could have some validity as the Plague was transmitted by fleas, which Lavender is known to repel.
Royal history also is filled with stories of Lavender use. Charles VI of France demanded Lavender filled pillows wherever he went. Queen Elizabeth I of England required Lavender conserve at the royal table. She also wanted fresh Lavender flowers available every day of the year, a daunting task for a gardener if you consider the climate of England. Louis XIV also loved Lavender and bathed in water scented with it.
Also called spike oil, Lavender oil is used as a medium in oil painting. Because more common painting oils (e.g. linseed) smell unpleasant, several artists prefer mixing their pigments with spike oil.

Health Warnings

Some individuals may develop an allergic reaction to Lavender. Pregnant and breast-feeding women should avoid using Lavender.

Plant Description

It is commonly grown as an ornamental plant. It is popular for its colourful flowers, its fragrance and its ability to survive with low water consumption. It is a strongly aromatic shrub growing to 1-2m tall. The leaves are evergreen, 2-6cm long and 4-6mm broad. The flowers are pinkish-purple (lavender-coloured), produced on spikes 2-8cm long at the top of slender leafless stems 10-30cm long.

References

(1) Document: NL E4-0-C-REF, Netherlands Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport
(-) Lavender, University of Maryland Medical Center
(-) Lavenders, A Modern Herbal, by Margaret Grieve
(-) King's American Dispensatory, Harvey Wickes Felter, M.D., and John Uri Lloyd, Phr. M., Ph. D., 1898
(-) Lavender, Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia