Bayberry Shrubs

( Western Herb )

Myrica cerifera

Bayberry shrubs are also known as Wax berry, Wax myrtle, Candle berry, and Tallow shrubs.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION:

Bayberry shrubs are widely cultivated in Europe and the British Isles. In the United States it grows in the Southeast and matures into an evergreen tree that reaches 35 feet.

In the North and around the Great Lakes, it is more the size of a shrub or small tree, 3 to 8 feet in height. It produces shiny leaves which are dotted on both sides and small yellow flowers.

Bayberry shrubs have waxy berries that contain numerous black seeds which have a crust of usable greenish white wax. The leaves are very fragrant when rubbed and the scent is a good insect repellent for dogs.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* dysentry

* diarrhea

* fever

* colds and flu

* coughs, sore throats, canker sores

* symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome

* mucous colitis

Apply externally for:

* skin infections

* skin disease

* ulcers

* poor circulation

* varicose veins

* hemorrhoids

PREPARATIONS AND DOSAGES:

Over the counter: The Bayberry herb is available as tinctures, fluid-extract, capsules, powder, dried root, bark and berries at health food stores.

Decoction: Boil 1 teaspoon of powdered root bark in 1 pint of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Add a little milk and drink it cool, drink up to 2 cups a day.

Tincture: Take 20 to 60 drops of the tincture 2 to 4 times a day.

Gargle: Boil 1 teaspoon of powdered root bark in 1 pint of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Use this as a gargle or mouthwash.

Parts used: Bark of the root, leaves, flowers

Collection: The root is unearthed in Spring or Fall and its bark pared off and dried.

Constituents: Tannins, falconoid, resin, gum, volatile oil

Actions: Astringent, circulatory stimulant, diaphoretic, tonic

Combinations: The Bayberry herb can be combined with Comfrey Root and Agrimony for a digestive astringent.

SIDE EFFECTS:

Not Serious:

Large doses may cause stomach distress, nausea, and vomiting.

SPECIAL INFORMATION:

* Do not use if you are pregnant because it can stimulate uterine contractions.

* Do not use if you have kidney disease, high blood pressure or congestive heart failure without consulting your physician first.