Beta, Beet root

White Beet root
Atlas der officinellen pflanzen, Felix, 1899

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Botanical name:
Beta vulgaris

Parts used:
Root; Herb

Temperature & Taste:
Neutral, Sweet.
Red Beet was classed as more Astringent, and more tonic

Classifications:
2E LENITIVE    2F. PURIFYING

Uses:
1. Benefits the Liver and Blood:
-headache, Vertigo
-stops excessive Menstrual bleeding
-said to cure Baldness and prevent falling of the hair (Essence, Salmon)

2. Clears Heat and Poison:
-Scabs, Eczema, Running Sores
-Ulcers in the Head or Legs
-venomous bites

3. Opens Obstructions:
-obstructions of the Liver and Spleen
-Yellow Jaundice

4. Externally:
-thickened juice mixed with vinegar is applied to the temples for Inflammation of the Eyes
-thickened juice mixed with oil is applied to Burns
-decoction in equal parts of water and vinegar is applied to inflammations
-juice mixed with Niter and snuffed up the nose cleanses the Head
-boiled herb applied to Boils, Pimples and other eruptions
-herb decoction cures Chilblains

Dose:
Juice: 50–100 mls.

Comment:
One of the 5 Emollient Herbs, along with Mallow, Pellitory of the Wall, Mercury and Violet leaf.

Substitutes:
Beet seed was recommended as a substitute for Lotus seed by Galen.

Main Combinations:
1. Combined with the Emollient herbs Marshmallow, Mallow and Violet leaf. This combination is useful in any case that needs cooling, soothing and softening
2. Dry Cough, boiled Beets, Sweet Almonds, Pomegranate juice, equal parts, give to eat. (The Secrets of Alexis, 1615)
3. As a tonic juice recipe, Beet root combines well with Carrot, Celery and Ginger
4. Boils, Pimples, decot the herb and add Niter and Alum to be used as a wash

Cautions:
None noted

Main Preparations used: