Gender: Female Location: in a double decker bus...
"The most notable uses of spices and herbs in very early times were in medicine, in the making of holy oils and unguents, and as aphrodisiacs. Priests employed them in worship, incantations, magical rites, and rituals."
Please research one of these uses of herbs and state the most common herbs used, and how they are used.
Medicine/Aphrodisiacs
PARSLEY
Oh, take note!!: If you are in love, NEVER cut parsley, for you will be cutting your LUCK as well! You can eat it, provoking lust and fertility, but remember it is regarded as an evil herb! It is placed on plates protecting the food from contamination. And used in baths for purification and keeping misfortune away.
Although this is the folklore around parsley, it does have a history! It has a diuretic property, so therefore, has been used to treat fluid retention, including edema and obesity.
The Romans and the ancient Greeks used parsley for refreshing the breath of garlic and other odiferous foods. It was woven into wreaths to honor the best athetics. Chaplets of parsley were worn at banquets for it was thought to absorb the fumes of the wine they were drinking.
Parsley is a great cleansing herb! It benefits the lungs, stomach, liver, and thyroid, and has helped in passing all stones, and helps in bladder infections.
It is full of nutrients that help give it the name of one of natures preventitive medicines. It is high in vitamin B and potasium, has high iron, chlorophyll, calcium, phosphorus, vitamins A & C.
So eat your parsley for it will help build resistance to infections and diseases. Scientists have found a substance that inhibits the development of certain cancer cells. Some even think that it may yet be proven that parsley is a cancer preventitive!
Pregnant woman should not use parsley for it may bring on an early labor! And nursing moms: it may dry up your milk flow! And if you have kidney problems, omit parsley from your diet. Parsley is a warming herb, so omit it if you are battling an infection, or when any inflamation is present in your body.
Parsley tea can be drank after your meals, or chew on the sprig left on your plate to relieve indigestion and to relieve a urinary complaint. It is also a good remedy for hemorroids! When using fresh parsley, remember the roots are more powerful than the leaves. When making a tea, simply steep a few sprigs in very hot water for a few minutes, and enjoy.
For insect bites you can squeeze parsley juice onto the sting for a quick relief. Infuse parsley into a lotion and use to help fade away those freckles!
So, use your parsley! Chop it up to make a two-cup full, and chop tomatoes and onions and chives, add a little Italian dressing and wa-la, you have a wonderful summer salad!
Drake Faydark Ravenclaw
__________________ The wise one is not the one who dominate the world or over another person, wise is the one who dominate himself
Mandrake(Mandragora officinarum), a southern European plat from the nightshade family, is a powerful restorative and was a pain-killer in the Middle Ages. The roots contain the poisonous alkaloid hyoscyamine which forms an essential part of most antidotes. One antidote that may only be produced with mandrake is the Mandrake Restorative Draft. The Mandrake Restorative Draft returns people who are transfigured or cursed to their original state. Mandrake seedlings are tufty little plants, purplish green in color with what look like tiny babies growing where the roots would be. These creatures grow and develop over the course of several months until they mature and can be harvested and used for potions. The cry of the Mandrake is fatal to humans, so special care must be taken when growing them. Even as a baby, the Mandrake's howls may render a person unconscious.
__________________ Ransom Taxi
Last edited by Kai_Haider on Jan 10th, 2004 at 05:25 AM
Jasmine walks sleepily into class, she was tired from being up all night working on her Herbology assignment. Slowly she took out the crisp parchment from inside her folder and placed it on her desk. She sat anxiously waiting for the teacher to come over and collect it.
Holy oils and unguents
Chrism
A mixture of oil of olives and balsam, blessed by a bishop in a special manner and used in the administration of certain sacraments and in the performance of certain ecclesiastical functions. That chrism may serve as valid matter for the Sacrament of Confirmation it must consist of pure oil of olives, and it must be blessed by a bishop, or at least by a priest delegated by the Holy See. These two conditions are certainly necessary for validity; moreover it is probable that there should be an admixture of balsam, and that the blessing of the chrism should be special, in the sense that it ought to be different from that which is given to the oil of the sick or the oil of catechumens. (Cf. Lehmkuhl, Cas. Cons. II, n.102.) If either of the last two conditions is wanting the sacrament will be doubtfully valid. To deal with the subject in a sufficiently exhaustive manner, it will be enough to touch upon (1) the origin and antiquity of chrism; (2) its constituent nature; (3) its blessing; and (4) its use and symbolical significance.
(1) Origin
In its primitive meaning the word chrism, like the Greek chrisma, was used to designate any and every substance that served the purpose of smearing or anointing, such as the various kinds of oils, unguents, and pigments. This was its ordinary signification in profane literature, and even in the early patristic writings. Gradually however, in the writings of the Fathers at all events, the term came to be restricted to that special kind of oil that was used in religious ceremonies and functions, especially in the administration of the Sacraments of Baptism and Confirmation. This Origen refers to the visible chrism in which we have all been baptized: St. Ambrose venerates in the chrism the oil of grace which makes kings and priests; and St. Cyril of Jerusalem celebrates the praises of the mystic chrism (cf. Dict. De theol. Cath., s.v. Chreme, where many references are given to patristic passages in which the word occurs.) The early councils of the Church have also references to chrism as something set apart for sacred purposes and making for the sanctification of men. Thus the Council of Constantinople held in 381 (Can. vii) and the Council of Toledo, 398 (Can. x). Regarding the institution of chrism, or its introduction into the sacramental and ceremonial system of the Church, some theologians like St. Thomas (Sum., III, QW. lxxii, a. 4) and Suarez (De Conf., D. xxxiii) hold that it was instituted immediately by Christ, whild others contend that it is altogether of ecclesiastical origin. Eugene IV, in his famous "Instruction for the Armenians" (Bull "Exultate Deo", apud Denzinger, "Enchiridion", p. 160) asserts that chrism is the matter of the Sacrament of Confirmation, and, indeed, this opinion is so certain that it may note be denied without incurring some note of theological cencure. (Cf. Catechism of the Council of Trent, Pt. II, c.iii, q.7.) All that the Council of Trent has defined in this conexion is that they who attribute a certain spiritual and salutary efficacy to holy chrism do not in any way derogate from the respect and reverence due to the Holy Ghost (Sess. VII, c.iv).
(2) Nature
Two elements enter into the constitution of legitimate chrism, viz. olive-oil and balsam. The former is indeed the preponderating, as well as the principal, ingredient, but the latter must be added in greater or lesser quantity, if not for reasons of validity, at all events in obedience to a grave ecclesiastical precept. Frequent reference is made in the Old Testament to the use of oil in religious ceremonies. It was employed in the coronation of kings, in the consecration of the high priest and in the ordination of the Levites, and indeed, it figured very prominently in the Mosaic ordinances generally, as can be abundantly gathered from Exodus (xxx, 22 sqq.), Leviticus (viii), and Deuteronomy (xxvii, 40). Such being the prevailing usage of the Old Testament in adopting olive-oil for religious ceremonies, it is no cause for wonder that it also came to receive under the New Dispensation a certain religious recognition and approval. The second element that enters into the constitution of genuine chrism is balsam. This is an aromatic, resinous substance that is extracted from the wood of certain trees or plants, especially those belonging to the terebinthine group or family. In the manufacture of this sweet-smelling unguent the early Greek Christians were wont to employ as many as forty different perfumed spices or essences (Goar, Euchologion, p. 627). In the beginning the Christian Era balsam was obtained from Judea (opobalsam) and from Arabia Felix (balm of Mecca), but in modern times it is also procured, and in superior quality, from the West Indies. What is required for chrism should of course be such as is sanctioned by the usage of the Church. The first mention of balsam as an ingredient in the composition of chrism seems to be found in the "Gregorian Sacramentary", a work belonging to the sixth century. (Cf. Perrone, Prael. Theol., III, 135.) Now, however, according to existing legislation, the addition of balsam is requisite for lawful chrism, but whether it is necessary for the validity of the sacrament, assuming that chrism is the matter of confirmation, this is a matter about which theologians do not agree. (Cf. Bellarmine, De Conf., ix.) The modern view appears to be that it is not so required. But owing to the uncertainty mere olive-oil would be doubtful matter and could not, therefore, be employed apart from very grave necessity.
(3) Blessing
For proper and legitimate chrism the blessing by a bishop is necessary, and, probably too, such a blessing as is peculiar to it alone. That the bishop is the ordinary minister of this blessing is certain. So much is amply recognized in all the writings of the early centuries, by the early councils (cf. Const. Apos., VII, 42; the Second Council of Carthage of 390, and Third Council of Braga, 572), and by all modern theologians (cf. Frassen, xi, 440). But whether a priest may be the extraordinary minister of this blessing, and, if so, in what circumstances, this is a question that is more or less freely discussed. It seems agreed that the pope may delegate a priest for this purpose, but it is not so clear that bishops can bestow the same delegated authority ex jure ordinario. They exercised, it seems, this perogative in former times in the East, but the power of delegating priests to bless chrism is now strictly reserved to the Holy See in the Western Church. (Cf. Perrone, Prael. Theol., III, 135.) The rites employed in consecrating the sacred chrism go to show that it is a ceremony of the highest importance. Formerly it could be blessed on any day of the year according as necessity arose. Now, however, it must be blessed during the solemn high Mass of Holy Thursday. (Cf. Decr. S.R.C., ed., Gardellini, n. 2475.) For the full solemn ceremonial the consecrating prelate should be assisted by twelve priests, seven deacons, and seven subdeacons. The oil and balsam, being prepared in the sacristy beforehand, are carried in solemn procession to the sanctuary after the Communion, and placed on a table. Then the balsam, held on a silver salver, is blessed, and similarly the olive-oil, which is reserved in a silver jar. After this the balsam is mixed with the oil. Then, the chrism, being perfected with a final prayer, receives the homage of all the sacred ministers present, making each a triple genuflection towards it, and each time saying the words, Ave sanctum chrisma. After the ceremony it is taken back to the sacristy, and distributed among the priests who take it away in silver vessels commonly called oil-stocks, what remains being securely and reverently guarded under lock and key. (Cf. Catalani, Com. in Rom. Pont., I, 120; Bernard. Le Pontifical, II, 470-495.)
(4) Use and Significance
Chrism is used in the administration of the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Orders, in the consecration of churches, chalices, patens, altars, and altar-stones, and in the solemn blessing of bells and baptismal water. The head of the newly-baptized is anointed with chrism, the forehead of the person confirmed, the head and hands of a bishop at his consecration, and the hands of a priest at his ordination. So are the walls of churches, which are solemnly consecrated, anointed with the same holy oil, and the parts of the sacred vessels used in the Mass which come in contact with the Sacred Species, as the paten and chalice. If it be asked why chrism has been thus introduced into the functions of the church liturgy, a reason is found in its special fitness for this purpose by reason of its symbolical significance. For olive-oil, being of its own nature rich, diffusive, and abiding, is fitted to represent the copious outpouring of sacramental grace, while balsam, which gives forth most agreeable and fragrant odours, typifies the innate sweetness of Christian virtue. Oil also gives strength and suppleness to the limbs, while balsam preserves from corruption. Thus anointing with chrism aptly signifies that fulness of grace and spiritual strength by which we are enabled to resist the contagion of sin and prduce the sweet flowers of virtue. "For we are the good odour of Christ unto God" (II Cor., ii, 15).
{OOC: Phoe are you Catholic? hee hee.....this was an in depth thing i found. Angel}
Uratium nipsum - dwelling placeof the plant goddess.
Uratium nipsum otherwise known as Urata is widely used for the treatment of hiccipox. (a blistering infection that turns the skin a blotchy purple, and causes vast amounts of pain.)Also use dto kill and is one of the most highly sought after urbs in magic today.
It is said that the spirit Roshima dwells within the urb to bring a healing light to all of those who wear it. It has side effects, namely that it has made the odd person have flight abilities, but no more than an inch off the ground has been recorded thus far.
According to Magical Aid to Herbologists and Mystical Horticulture, it makes a rather nice perume, and it is rumoured that the effects are of hightened awareness and some users of Urata have awareness of trees and living things that stays with them for life even if the plant is no longer used.
In the year 564 of the trollian period, a girl first stumbled upon the urb. It was thus discovered that she heard a whoicpering in the trees...all around she heard them, they drove her mad, and in three years she had thrown herself off the edge of Cragly Hill - which incidently is known for its unusual psychosimatic activity - and her spirit was said to have been bound the the urb which she had to pyously taken and used on herself.
Lord Voldemort is said to have used the urb once, an in his mighty power the urb became a deadly weapon, to kill anyone who smelled its deadly viper fumes...so alluring to the unsuspecting...
To date three people have been kiled, and 47 seriously affected by Urata. 600 enjoy it's goodnatured effects. Noone knows what turns the plant so deadly, but it is said that it is the girl or Goddess Roshima who died so long ago...
Religious Applications and the Media:
It is said that Urata, plant of the Roshima was used in the days of tyranny when the dark reigned and all was evil. Almost all of the Putrified Urata leaf was used, but it is said that some still dwells close to the walls of Hogwarts shool, awaiting in the woods.
The Minestry denies such alligations, even though one of 'the three' (who died) was in Hogwarts at the time.
The Monks of Gen used coins to trade for Urata, in the hope of gaining it all to sacrifice and rid the world of it forever, even if the fumes kill them as it burns they say without weaping.
"The burning fire moke in our lungs will be a small price to pay." said Mr Bogglewort earlier this year. To date, not all of it has been found.
[bold]Terra - year 6 - slytherine[/bold]
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This has been downloaded 21 time(s).
In ancient times priests of the South AMericas used blood saracfices as a way of curing disease. Since the process needed the death of a lower ranking individual it was only used by the king, or someone very high ranking in their hierachy. The process involved the sacrafice being held over a basin and their neck being slit. as the blood flowed into the basin, priests covered the wond or infected area with it. Obviously sometimes this resulted in a worse disease, btut that was blamed on the patient being evil, who was then sacraficed.
OOC
Come on phoe, all my work so far has been out of my head. Not copying from google searc pages *mutter*
__________________ "If clowns warred on monkeys, and the monkeys had guns, and were trained to use them, who would win?"
Gender: Female Location: in a double decker bus...
Edward hastily smoothed out his crumpled work. He felt he was at least close to getting a good mark - his sister, a Healer, had allowed him to tag along with her last summer around St. Mungo's.
The most notable uses of spices and herbs in very early times were in medicine.
Ancient herbals, including those of Cathay, Sumer, Assyria, Egypt, Greece, and Rome, testify to the use of spices and herbs in the treatment of disease. Hippocrates, Galen, and Pedanius Dioscorides, among others, employed them. In the 1st century of the Christian Era Pliny the Elder, in his Natural History, extols at length the efficacy and healing powers of spices and herbs in the treatment of just about every ailment known in his day. Such virtues, tempered and moderated, filtered down into the Middle Ages and early modern times.
Modern uses of spices, spice seeds, and herbs are legion. There are few culinary recipes that do not include them, and their judicious use brings a delectable, distinctive aroma and taste to a host of dishes.
In medicine the spices and herbs have not entirely lost their reputation. In India and other Asiatic countries their curative virtues enjoy respect. They still have a place, though limited, in Western medicine. Present-day herbalists extol the efficacies of some spices, spice seeds, and herbs in the treatment of certain ailments.
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Jan 9th, 2004 09:20 AM
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