Wintergreen - Gaultheria procumbens (Ericacae)
(partridge berry, tea berry, chequerberry)
Description: Evergreen shrub that produces leaves on
the ends of branches. Drooping white flowers also
grow towards the end of branches followed by small
round red berries.
Uses: Use leaves fresh or dried in the sun. Leaves
made into an infusion to be used as a gargle, as they
are pain reducing. Can also be given as a tea to
treat minor pain.
Infusion: Used to prepare more delicate parts of plants. 3 cups of water to 1 ounce dry herb or 1½ ounce of fresh herbs; pour the freshly boiled water over herbs in a pot, cover the pot and let the herbs steep for at least 10 minutes. Strain and serve. Refrigerate unused portions, lasts up to 24 hours.
Tincture: A tincture is a good solution for long term treatment as will store for up to two years. 8 ounces of dried herb, 1½ cups of alcohol (grain alcohol like Everclear), and 4 cups of water; Chop your herbs up finely and put them in a glass jar with a good tight fitting lid. Pour the liquid over the herbs and tighten the lid. Keep the jar in a warm, dark place for 2 weeks. Shake the jar every two days. After the two weeks, strain the liquid off through cheesecloth into a clean colored glass jar and store away from heat and direct sunlight.
Medicinal uses: mouthwash, sore throat, muscular aches and pains
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