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Cleavers
(Galium aparine)
Part(s) used: The fresh or dried herb in flower.
Therapeutic effects: A simple volume diuretic with mild astringent effects.
Preparations and dosages: Cold or standard infusion of dried herb, as needed. Fresh plant tincture [1:2] 1 to 2 teaspoons. Fresh plant juice, 1/2 to 1 teaspoon, all to 4x a day.
Corn Silk
(Zea mays)
Part(s) used: The silk, either dried (straw-colored), dried and roasted (brownish purple) or fresh. Fans of corn silk seem to have strong opinions on this roasted-unroasted matter; I have found little difference myself.
Therapeutic effects: Soothing and analgesic to inflamed or injured urinary tract mucosa.
Preparations and dosages: Standard infusion, 4 to 6 ounces. Fresh silk tincture, [1:2], 1/2 to 1 1/2 teaspoons in 8 ounces water, both to 3x a day.
Couchgrass
(Triticum [Agropyron] repens)
Part(s) used: Roots and rhizomes.
Therapeutic effects: A volume diuretic. Although not as predictable a sodium leecher as either dandelion, burdock or chicory, it will sometimes work when they do not.
Preparations and dosages: Cold infusion, 2 to 4 fl. oz. Tincture [1:5, 50% alcohol] 30 to 60 drops. All forms to 5x a day.
Cranesbill or Wild Geranium
(Geranium spp.)
Part(s) used: Root (traditional); whole plant (my preference).

 
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