Basil & Nettle

We are waxing near full moon again, Sunday, May 3, 8:42 PM PDT. Fortunately for me I have both women's group on Sunday and social dance in the evening to explore moon energy. This month happens to be in the constellation Scorpio. I generally view these types of associations to be more mythology than anything else, but as I pull up various websites regarding herbs and Scorpio, I notice basil is a constant. Luckily something found at the farmers market!

Garden Witchery regards Scorpio herbs as: catmint, basil, sage, catnip, honeysuckle, nettle, onion, coriander, garlic, wormwood, and elder. And the area of the body to focus on is the genitals. I think about people I know dealing with reproductive health issues and want to consider medicines that might work from this list of herbs. 

Reading into the phytopharmacology of basil claims basil reduces blood clotting and lowers blood pressure. Women sometimes take basil before and after childbirth to promote blood circulation and the flow of breast milk. Not many studies have been undertaken but some demonstrate antibacterial, antimicrobial and spermicidal effects. If this is valid some kind of vaginal cream or salve may be created for treating STDs, HPV or yeast infections. In that case a strong antibacterial and antiviral could be added to enhance the potency (I am thinking garlic and onion). 

Another plant I am curious about is nettle, which is so abundant this time of year. Nettle is highlighted in an article "Women's Herbs" for it's value as a nutritive, for the entire body, bones, blood, brain, breast milk. As a whole body tonic it serves as a "fertility herb" -- whether or not you are trying to become pregnant you might make your body fertile for life. A basil nettle tea could be delicious. 

I love how I never thought of using these herbs for reproductive health until full moon in Scorpio came around when I happened to have women's group scheduled.