Herbs & Herbal Remedies @ Green Papaya

Digitalis Purpurea

SCROPHULARIACEAE

foxglove, fairy thimbles, thimbles, folk’s glove

Without exception, references to foxglove state that Digitalis should be used as medication only under the direction of a physician. Not a true native wilding, and not yet widely found on roadsides, foxglove is popular in gardens everywhere for its delightful flowers. It is also known as an important medicine; therefore mention is made of its properties to satisfy curiosity and to provide adequate cautions.

It seems curious that the true properties of this plant should not have been discovered until well into the eighteenth century. Early herbalists suggested only external use, and not until 1775 did an English doctor learn of its value from a countrywoman who used it. From then on its benefits were scientifically explored.

Digitalis is used in neuralgia, insanity, febrile diseases, acute inflammatory complaints, palpitations of the heart, and asthma and as a cardiac stimulant and diuretic.

For medical use, the leaves are picked from the second-year growth, just before the plant comes into flower. In some places in the United States the leaves are grown commercially on herb farms. What is not always realized is that the action of Digitalis is slow at first, and the effects are cumulative. Grieve’s Herbal summarizes:

[Digitalis] is liable to accumulate in the system and to manifest its presence all at once by its poisonous action, indicated by the pulse becoming irregular, the blood pressure low and gastro-intestinal irritation setting in. The constant use of Digitalis, also, by increasing the activity of the heart, leads to hypertrophy of that organ.