|
ACACIA
|
(Accacia Senegal)
|
|
Other Names
|
Cape Gum , Egyptian Thorn, Golden
Mimosa, Gum Arabic Tree, Silver Wattle, Wattles.
|
|
Description
|
Acacia is a tropical shrub native to Africa,
Tasmania, and Australia. This spiny stalk produces feathery leaves and clusters of fragrant yellow
flowers, with the oblong fruit appearing from late winter to early spring.
|
|
Classification
|
|
|
Taste
|
|
|
Balance Yin/Yang
|
|
|
Humor
|
|
|
Uses/Applications
|
Acacia forms a protective coating over inflammations of the respiratory and
urinary tract. Use for coughs, sore throat, catarrh, diarrhea and
dysentery.
|
|
Combinations
|
For coughs combine with Marshmallow.
|
|
Constituents
|
24 - 42% Tannins.
|
|
Action
|
Astringent, Demulcent
|
|
Food Values
|
Potassium, Trace Minerals.
|
|
Part Used
|
The gum from the bark.
|
|
Collection
|
Acacia is collected from December through June and marketed as Gum
Arabic. The tree must be at least 7 years old before the bark can be
collected. Once the bark is collected it must be aged for a minimum of 1
year.
|
|
Preparation
|
Mucilage
|
Dissolve Acacia in water to make a mucilage. Take 1 - 4 Tsp. three times per
day.
|
|
|
Syrup
|
Mix 1 part mucilage to 3 parts sugar. Take 1 - 4 Tsp. three
times per day.
|
|
Growing Directions
|
Acacia can be started from seed. It prefers moderate to
slightly dry soil, fast draining and low in organic material. Allow it to completely dry
out between waterings. It loves lots of sunlight and enjoys being misted. During the growing cycle
feed Acacia low nitrogen fertilizer every 15 - 20 days. Acacia must be wintered
inside.
|
|
History
|
Acacia was a sacred wood to the ancient Hebrews.
|
|
Additional Information
|
1. Acacia is a substitute for Oak Bark.
2. It is listed in the British Pharmacopoeia as a treatment for
diarrhea.
3. Acacia is used more in industry for tanning and dying various shades of
brown, than it is used medicinally.
|
|
Cautions
|
None.
|
|
Magick Information
|
|
|
Gender:
|
Masculine
|
|
Planet:
|
Sun
|
|
Element
|
Air
|
|
Deity:
|
Astarte, Diana, Ishtar, Osiris, Ra
|
|
Powers:
|
Protection, Psychic Powers
|
|
Magickal Uses:
|
Place a sprig of a tree over your bed to ward off
evil. Burn Acacia with Sandalwood to increase psychic
powers.
|