• Not recommended for persons suffering depression.

Spiritual Uses: A Druid Sacred Herb.

Used in love incenses and in the ritual preparation of certain sacramental ales.

Physical Uses: This herb has been in use for thousands of years and is best known for its calming effect. Gently relaxes and assists with sleep.

Native Americans prepared a sedative tea from the blossoms and applied heated, dried flowers to treat toothaches.

A cupful of cold tea taken at least an hour before eating is useful for encouraging appetite and promoting good digestion.

Combined equally with Chamomile (Matricaria recutita / Chamaemelum nobile/Anthemis nobilis), it can help to alleviate pain. The same combination is helpful as a wash for rashes and boils.

Sleep on a hop pillow for a sweet and healing sleep (sprinkle the herb with alcohol to increase effectiveness).

Preparation:

TUMMY TEA:

1. Boil 1 cup of water. Allow to sit for 30 seconds.
2. Add 1 teaspoonful of chopped flowers. Stir briefly and cover.
3. Allow to steep for 10 minutes.
4. Strain out flowers and discard.
5. Dosage: 1 cup taken 1 hour before meals.

PAIN TEA:

1. Mix equal amounts of Hops flowers and Chamomile flowers.
2. Boil 1 cup of water. Allow to stand 30 seconds.
3. Add 1 heaping teaspoonful of Hops/Chamomile mix. Stir briefly and cover.
4. Allow to steep for 10 minutes.
5. Strain out herbs and discard.
6. Dosage: 1 cup per 24 hours, taken in mouthful doses.