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Figwort is recognised as a very cleansing herb. Common throughout England, it was previously known as the scrofula plant on account of its use in tuberculosis of the lymph glands and value in all skin eruptions, abscesses and wounds. The aerial parts of the plant are suitable for any form of cleansing – for example in rheumatic disorders and gout, when there is stagnation of the lymphatic system, or sluggish digestion. Constituents Saponins, cardioactive glycosides, flavonoids, alkaloids, iridoids Character Chinese herbal medicine regards it as bitter, cold, drying, salty Action It traditionally acts as a diuretic, laxative circulatory stimulant, anti-inflammatory, pain reliever Infusion This can be traditionally used when there is a build up of toxins to cleanse; for rheumatic conditions and skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis Tincture This has been traditionally used in combination with other digestive herbs, such as dandelion, barberry or rhubarb for constipation and sluggishness, or with bittersweet or burdock for skin problems. Compress Soak a pad in the infusion. This has been traditionally used on painful swellings and wounds Cautions Figwort stimulates the heart, so avoid in cases of abnormally rapid heartbeat
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