Prickly Ash Bark
Gender: Masculine
Planet: Mars
Element: Fire
Chakra Colour: Yellow
Medicinal Uses: Prickly Ash Bark can perhaps best be described as a stimulant as it brings warmth to the body by stimulating the circulation. It has a dilating effect on the blood vessels, which can be employed in diseases that are marked by poor circulation, such as Raynaud’s syndrome and Claudicatio intermittens, as well as for rheumatism and arthritis, where improved circulation increases the oxygen and nutrient supply to aching joints, while helping to flush out metabolic waste materials. It stimulates the glandular system to increase secretion – it stimulates the flow of saliva, of gastric juices and probably those of the liver and gall bladder as well. It also has a diuretic effect on the kidneys and increases the amount of urine secreted. It tones the digestive system and has a marked effect on flatulent dyspepsia, which may be due to insufficient gastric juices or the inability to digest certain foods. It can be combined with other herbs to enhance their efficacy by adding its stimulant effect. In Native American medicine it was also used to treat toothache as well as bronchial afflictions.
Magical Uses: Many have used this herb magically, in some shamanic healing rites and that it was given to dogs to sharpen their senses for the hunt. This stimulating effect can kindle the inner fire and may be used for initiation rituals or to heighten the acuity of the senses. The hot nature of this herb can also be utilized for love and lust charms.
Other Names: Zanthoxylum Americanum, Angelica Tree, Clavalier, Pepper Wood, Prickly Ash, Toothache Bark, Xanthoxylum, Yellow Wood
Contraindications: Do not use if you are taking antacids, medications that decrease stomach acid,are pregnant or breast-feeding. Or of you have stomach or intestinal problems including ulcers, Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, infections, or other conditions.
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