Passionflower
Scientific name: Passiflora incarnata
Medicinal value
This herb is used for the treatment of hyperactivity, insomnia, Parkinson's
disease, nervous tension, eye infections and eye- strain.
Religious importance
It is believed that Passionflower calms troubled household when placed
inside the home.
Habitat
Passionflower grows best below zone 7 outdoors in partial shade and a
fertile soil with good drainage with an height of 25-30 feet
Patchouli
Scientific name: Pogostemon cablin, P. patchouli
Medicinal value
Patchouli is used to treat dysentery, diarrhea, cold without fevers,
vomiting and nausea.
Religious importance
It is believed that Patchouli oil worn to attract the opposite sex as it
sensual oil and it can ward off negativity and evil.
Pennyroyal
Scientific name: Mentha pulegium
Medicinal value
Pennyroyal herb removes gas from the digestive system, before menstruation
aids a suppressed flow, used in treatments for clods, upset stomach and to
stimulate blood flow to the pelvis area. It should not be taken or used by
pregnant women.
Religious importance
It is believed that Pennyroyal placed in a shoe prevents weariness on long
walks and hikes or journeys. It aids in making favorable business deals and
if given to arguing couples it ceases fighting and restores harmony in the
relationship.
Habitat
Pennyroyal is a perennial that grows to 1 1/2 feet high. It tolerates most
soils, and prefers direct sun.
Peony
Scientific name: Paeonia officinalis
Medicinal value
Peony root treats menstrual cramps and irregularities, gout, asthma and
emotional nervous conditions.
Religious importance
It is believed that dried Peony roots are carved or made into bracelets and
necklaces for protection as well as for breaking spells and curses. A chain
of beads cut from the dried root was worn as a protection against illness
and injury, and to cure insanity.
Habitat
Peonies are a perennial shrub-like plant, growing 2 - 4 feet high that
prefer rich, humus, well-drained soils and full sun.
Peppermint
Scientific name: Mentha piperata
Medicinal value
Peppermint cleans and strengthens the body, acts as a sedative on the
stomach and strengthens the bowels
Religious importance
It is believed that Peppermint is used in charms to heal the sick and it is
burned to cleanse the home. If used in sleep pillows to aid in getting to
sleep or placed beneath the pillow, it can bring dreams that give a glimpse
into the future.
Habitat
Peppermint is a perennial grown in full sun, is tolerant of most soil types
and grows to 3 feet tall.
Periwinkle
Scientific name: Vinca major, Vinca minor
Medicinal value
Periwinkle is used made into a tea for external use to treat skin problems,
dermatitis, eczema and acne.
Religious importance
It is believed that Periwinkle helps to restore memory when it is gazed at
or carried.
Habitat
Periwinkle is a perennial plant that spreads by putting out runners, mostly
used for a ground cover in partial to full shade and prefers moist and
well-drained soils.
Plantain
Scientific name: Plantago lanceolata, P. major
Medicinal value
Plantain is used to clear mucous from the body, to neutralize poisons, to
treat lung problems in children, to treat stomach ulcers, for diarrhea,
bladder infectionsand for treating wounds.
Religious importance
It is believed that if Plantain is hung in the car it guards against evil
spirits.
Habitat
Plantains are common weeds, some varieties being annual and some perennial.
They are found in all soil types and prefer full sun.
Poppy
Scientific name: Papaver spp.
Medicinal value
Poppy is used for pain, insomnia, nervousness and chronic coughs.
Religious importance
It is believed that Poppy seed- pods are used in prosperity charms and to
get pregnant. Place the paper inside a poppy seed pod and put it beneath
your pillow. The answer will come to you in a dream.
Habitat
Poppies are perennials that prefer poor to average soils that tend toward
dryness. There are varieties that will grow most anywhere in North America.
