Contents
Properties and medicinal uses of wayfarer
What is wayfarer used for?
Medicinal uses of wayfarer
- Remedies for internal use: Due to its richness in tannins, it has been used internally as an astringent in cases of diarrhea. An extract is extracted from the leaves, fruits, flowers and bark that has been used to tone the heart.
- Wayfarer preparations for external use: Externally, the infusion of leaves or the decoction of fruits has been used to make gargles with which to treat bacterial infections that can occur in the gums or throat (tonsillitis).
The liquid from these same preparations, applied with gauze, was used for skin problems (dermatitis, eczema, skin ulcers, mycosis, itching, etc.) or for eye problems (conjunctivitis, inflammation of the eyes or eyelids).
Due to its toxicity, it is advisable not to take homemade preparations made with wayfarer.
Toxicity of wayfarer
The toxicity of this plant is high. Poisoning occurs when berries are ingested when used for medicinal purposes. It can cause accidents in children who are attracted by its appearance. Fortunately, the unpleasant taste of its fruits causes them to be quickly expelled.
Despite this, these berries have traditionally been eaten especially during times of famine, when there was no food available. To do this, once collected, they were allowed to ferment a little, thereby losing part of their toxicity. This use has caused many poisonings.
The leaves and bark are very rich in tannins. Using them can cause stomach upset.
Side effects of wayfarer
The ingestion of wayfarer produces a series of negative consequences that manifest themselves in the form of poisoning with
the following characteristics:
- In minor ingestions: Abdominal pain, diarrhea, inflammation of the digestive mucosa with the appearance of blisters, urinary hemorrhages.
- In case of significant ingestion: Respiratory problems and cardiorespiratory arrest.
Garden plant
As a garden plant, it is highly appreciated for being very tolerant of acidic soils and adapting to both sun and shade. It adapts quickly to dry soils, which it fixes very quickly, preventing soil erosion.
It is used to make hedges and as a protective barrier for more sensitive plants.
Its fruits are highly sought after by birds, although they are toxic to them when green. It is easily propagated by seeds or cuttings.
Wayfarer wood
Its wood is light and strong and is used form making flutes.
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