Iain Stewart
Can the Scottish native plant Myrica gale play a larger role in today's modern herbal practice and if so where do its main strengths lie?
Abstract
A two-part study into the traditional and modern uses of Myrica gale (Bog Myrtle). The author compares and contrasts data from historical and modern sources with data gathered from an intuitive tasting of the herb at the Scottish School of Herbal Medicine, utilising the approach of contemplative discernment.
The author concludes that this herb could and should be used more widely in clinical practice, especially in the context of a move towards using more native and ecologically sustainable herbal medicines. The key therapeutic attributes of the herb were found to agree with its traditional use, i.e. the herb could be used in conditions such as digestive upset, skin conditions and worm infestations.
Other attributes based on the energetic properties of the herb are also proposed. These include this herb as a treatment for mild depression or stagnating psychological conditions where the patient would benefit from increased motivation. The energetic attributes of the herb were derived from an intuitive tasting of the herb.
