PIMPERNEL.

Description:

Anagallis Arvensis.— This is a pretty ornament to meadows and corn-fields. Common Pimpernel has several weak square stalks lying on the ground, having two small and almost round leaves at every joint, one against another, very like Chickweed, but without foot-stalks; for the leaves compass the stalk. The flowers stand singly on tender foot-stalks; they consist of five small round-pointed leaves, of a scarlet colour, with threads in the middle. It grows almost every where, and flowers from May until August. Pimpernel is known as the Poor Man's Weather Glass, the flowers opening at about 7 in the morning, and closing about 2 in the afternoon; and also the Shepherd's Barometer closing on the approach of rain.

Herbal Remedies and Medicinal Uses of Pimpernel:

— Galen says, they have a drying faculty, whereby they are good to close the lips of wounds, and to cleanse foul ulcers. The distilled water or juice is much esteemed by French dames to cleanse the skin from any roughness, deformity, or discolouring thereof; being boiled in wine, and given to drink. It is a good remedy against pestilential fevers, if the party after taking it be warm in bed, and sweat for two hours after, and use the same twice at least. It cures stings and bites of bees, wasps, and even mad dogs, used inwardly and applied outwardly. It removes obstructions of the liver and kidneys, provokes urine and expels gravel, and relieves inward pains and ulcers. The decoction or distilled water is effectual to be applied to all fresh wounds and to old ulcers. A little honey mixed with the juice, and dropped into the eyes, removes cloudy mists, or thick films which grow over them. Ray states that the distilled water is effectual in consumption, being mixed with milk.

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This page and the rest of the encyclopedia of medicinal herbs was reproduced from old herbals written in the 1700 and 1800s. They are of historical interest to show the traditional uses of various herbs based on folk medicine and ancient wisdom. However the traditional uses for these herbs have not been confirmed by medical science and in some cases may actually be dangerous. Do not use the these herbs for any use, medicinal or otherwise, without first consulting a qualified doctor.

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