Walnut
Scientific name: Juglans nigra (Black Walnut)
Medicinal value
The bark of this tree is used to treat dysentery and skin diseases. The nut
is used to promote strength and weight gain whereas the ground hull of the
nut is used to treat skin diseases, herpes, head, body lice and internal
parasites. Walnut leaf is used to treat eczema, hives and boils. Diluted
walnut oil is used to treat dandruff.
Religious importance
It is believed that nut still in its shell is carried to promote fertility
and to discover a witch in the midst. According to an old legend it is said
that if a dropped walnut falls into the lap of the person suspected and if
that person is truly a Witch, they will be unable to rise from a sitting
position as long as the walnut is in their laps.
Habitat
Walnuts are trees grow to 60 feet tall and prefer full sun, deep and
well-drained soil and regular water.
Wild Cherry
Scientific name: Prunus serotina
Medicinal value
This is a good expectorant, is useful for all illnesses related to lung
congestion.
Habitat
Wild Cherry grows in moist areas, along riverbanks and is either a tall
shrub or small tree depending upon growing conditions of the area.
Wild Yam
Scientific name: Dioscorea villosa
Medicinal value
This herb treats liver and the endocrine system. It also regulates the
female system, particularly during menopause, menstrual distress and
infertility.
Habitat
Wild yam is a perennial plant that is a low creeper and occupies average to
poor soils in full sun.
Willow
Scientific name: Salix spp.
Medicinal value
This herb is used to cleanse and heal eyes that are infected or inflamed.
Religious importance
It is believed that Willow trees planted near the home guard and its
branches have been used for the bindings on a witch's broom and as healing
wands.
Habitat
Willows prefer damp, low spaces, regular water and grow throughout North
America to 70 feet or more.
Witch Hazel
Scientific name: Hamamelis virginiana
Medicinal value
This herb is used for healing insect bites, burns, bleeding wounds,
hemorrhoids, and varicose veins externally. Internally it stops bleeding
from internal organs, treats bronchitis, flu, coughs and stomach ulcers. It
is often used as a mouthwash for conditions of the mouth and throat, and for
bleeding gums
Religious importance
It is believed that forked twigs of the Witch Hazel are used for divining
and they help heal a broken heart and cool passions when carried.
Habitat
Witch Hazel is a shrub that grows 5 - 15 feet and prefers full sun and
average soils.
Wormwood
Scientific name: Artemisia absinthum
Medicinal value
This herb is used for treating all problems within the digestive system,
liver and bladder ailments. It promotes menstruation and helps with
menstrual cramps.
Religious importance
It is believed that Wormwood is burned to raise spirits, enable easier
divination and clairvoyance.
Habitat
Wormwood is a perennial shrub that grows to 4 feet mainly in temperate
regions and prefers full sun and average to poor soils.