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Page 72
| water) acts as a powerful agent to expel gas from the stomach and intestines. |
| Senna (Cassia marilandica). Also called American senna or locust plant, senna is a valuable laxative. It is recommended for indigestion, bad breath, a bad taste in the mouth and the treatment of intestinal parasites. Because senna by itself can cause cramps or spasms, it should be combined with aromatic, carminative herbs such as chamomile and ginger. As an anthelmintic (worm therapy) it works best in combination with other herbs in that category. To brew a decoction, bring 4 Tbsp. senna to a boil with 2 cups water and 1 tsp. powdered ginger, 1 Tbsp. fresh grated ginger and/or 1 tsp. fennel seed. Simmer over low heat, tightly covered, for 30 minutes; then remove from heat and let stand another 10 minutes. Drink 2 oz. (1/8 cup) at a time. Take this herb in small doses as it is a more powerful laxative than cascara sagrada. In most cases, it relieves constipation within six to eight hours. Senna is not recommended for use during pregnancy or by the elderly. |
| Sheep sorrel (Rumex acetosella). A wild perennial relative of garden sorrel, sheep sorrel is an ingredient in Essiac tea (see page 6). It is a blood tonic said to be beneficial to the heart, and it has been used to treat ulcers and kidney disorders. |
| Slippery elm bark (Ulmus fulva). A demulcent, nutritive, tonic and slightly diuretic herb with many traditional uses, slippery elm bark nourishes the digestive tract while it soothes the stomach and intestines. Be- |
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