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Page 73
cause this herb is in short supply, many herbalists substitute marshmallow root, (Althea officinalis) which has similar properties. Both are rich sources of easily digested vegetable mucilage and can be added to fiber shakes containing powdered psyllium husk, pectin and other fiber.
Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica). Popular throughout Europe as a tonic herb and best known in the U.S. for its treatment of hay fever, stinging nettle is a blood cleansing, antiseptic herb. It combines well with other plants in teas, tinctures and capsules. Other than the sting caused by fresh nettle, this plant has no adverse side effects.
Turkey rhubarb root (Rheum palmatum). Native to China and Tibet but popularly known as Turkey rhubarb root, this relative of the domestic rhubarb is a powerful liver tonic, appetite stimulant, digestive aid and headache reliever. It is one of the four key ingredients of Essiac (see page 53).
Wormwood (Artemisia absinthium). A bitter herb, wormwood lives up to its name by helping rid the body of intestinal parasites. In addition, its antiseptic, antispasmodic, carminative and stimulant properties make it a tonic for the stomach and digestive tract. The distilled essential oil of wormwood, which is extremely concentrated, can be toxic and addictive: absinthe, a notorious liqueur that contains this essential oil, ruined some of the best minds in 19th century Europe. Wormwood tea and powdered wormwood capsules are considered safe in small quantities even

 
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