In traditional medicine, hollyhocks were used to treat coughs, sore throats, and other respiratory problems. The leaves and flowers were also used as a poultice to treat skin inflammation and wounds. Additionally, hollyhocks were sometimes used as a natural dye to color fabrics. Despite their many uses, it’s important to note that hollyhocks can be toxic if ingested, so they should not be consumed.
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An interesting fact about Magnolia liliiflora is that it is also known as the “woody-orchid” due to its distinctive floral fragrance that resembles the scent of orchids. This species of magnolia is native to southwest China and has been cultivated for centuries for its ornamental beauty and medicinal properties. Its flowers have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat various ailments, including headaches, coughs, and gastrointestinal disorders. In addition, the bark and leaves of Magnolia liliiflora contain compounds that have been found to possess anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
Photo by Liz Pullan Pattathy on Unsplash
Yesterday marked the start of the Hindu calendar New Year. I celebrated in the village for the first time. There were sweets, food, music singing, and chanting. After the Gods, and Goddesses are done with offerings, the dead are visited for whom a grave-like structure is raised. Not every person dead is given such respect. This time we visited one such grave of our family member who was born around 200 years back. He had mystical powers. From taming angry elephants to curing ailments, he had shown his powers. People to this day from surrounding villages visit this grave.
It’s hard to believe such things with a rational mind. Probably he knew a few things about medicine which were rare in those days. Would have been good with communication skills.
All I can say is that faith in him is still strong for people in the villages nearby. Society needs faith. Or why would a person do farming in which everything is unpredictable? You like unpredictability. A strong faith is necessary for such a lifestyle.
Plus the poor need not spend a lot to get their wishes fulfilled. Breaking a coconut and offering sugar candies is enough to invoke grace.
Did you know that mistletoe is not just a festive decoration but also a unique plant? Mistletoe grows on the branches of trees, drawing nutrients from them, and can be found in different regions around the world. With its white berries and green leaves, this parasitic plant has long been associated with ancient traditions and folklore. So let’s appreciate this remarkable plant and the joy it brings.
Photo by Liz Pullan Pattathy on Unsplash