Wild Weeds

Lythrum Salicaria - Purple Loostrife

Other Names:

- Spiked Loostrife

- Purple Lythrum

- Rainbow Weed

Family: Lythraceae

Gender: Feminine

Planet: Moon

Element: Earth

Habitat:

- Wetlands, Streams, and Humid Grasslands

- Found in many road side ditches

Origin:

- Invasive; originated from Europe and Asia introduced to North America in the early 1800's.

- Endangering our own wetland and species like cattail, the Purple Loostrife overrun the areas

Spiritual Properties:

- Peace

- Protection

- Pick during Summer Solstice for most potent

- Give to a friend to settle arguments

- Place in home for peace and protection

Benefits:

- Anti-inflammatory; Muscle relief

- Astringent; Helps heal and seal wounds more quickly by contraction

- Hepatoprotection; helps prevent liver damage

- Antibacterial

- Anti-ulcer

- Diarrhea Relief

- Alterative

- Helps heal bruises

Suggestions:

- Dried Flowers in a bath will help sooth muscles

- Dried or Fresh (possibly on a cold compressent) on a wound or bruise will aid the healing process

- Also used as a gargle to sooth sore throats or gingivitis