Fireweed (the second name is Ivan Chai) grows in almost the entire post-Soviet space. This grass loves sandy soils, it often grows on peatlands, on the edges of forests, along railway embankments and roads. The plant reaches a height of two meters, its leaves are very narrow, with veins clearly marked. Blooms fireweed purple flowers collected in spike-shaped inflorescences. It begins to bloom in late June or early July, sometimes in August. Ivan tea is very popular in folk medicine, even our great-grandmothers noticed the healing properties of fireweed. Due to the special chemical composition of this plant, an incredibly large number of various diseases are treated with it.
Small-flowered fireweed: medicinal properties
As mentioned above, with the help of this plant, you can successfully cure many ailments. So, fireweed helps in the treatment of stomach ulcers and intestinal inflammation, some female diseases, headaches, colds, metabolic disorders, syphilis and many others. Fireweed has general strengthening, anti-cold, anti-inflammatory, diaphoretic, disinfecting properties. A decoction of fireweed can be drunk like ordinary black tea (preferably without sugar) - in the season of colds, this will help strengthen the immune system and the body as a whole. Moreover, thanks to the compounds included in the chemical composition, Ivan-tea has calming properties.
Fireweed (Ivan-tea): method of preparation
In folk medicine from this plant, both the aerial part and the rhizomes are used to prepare healing broths, tinctures and powders. Harvest grass during flowering. To do this, cut off the upper part of the plant and dry it in a shady, well-ventilated place, then put it in canvas bags and store it also in a ventilated place, protecting it from direct sunlight. In addition to this method of harvesting medicinal herbs, you can separately collect and dry the flowers and leaves, and then use either separately or prepare mixtures. The workpiece is stored and does not lose its healing properties for about two years. Rhizomes are dug up in early autumn. Then they are washed and dried in the oven at a low temperature for forty minutes. Dried roots can be stored for three years. Since ivan tea is used to treat many diseases that differ in their etiology, infusions and decoctions are prepared in different ways. Below are the recipes for some of the funds that you can prepare yourself.
Fireweed: medicinal properties and contraindications in the treatment of adenoma
Three tablespoons of chopped dry grass pour two cups of boiling water and insist until the product has cooled completely. Take a glass in the morning and evening on an empty stomach. There are no contraindications as such. The reason for refusing such treatment can only be individual intolerance.
Fireweed: medicinal properties and contraindications in the treatment of chronic fatigue
Pour two tablespoons of fireweed into an enameled bowl and pour half a liter of hot water. Bring to a boil and leave to infuse for thirty minutes. Take a decoction should be 20-30 minutes before eating a third of a glass three times a day. Contraindication to this treatment is also individual intolerance. Even with prolonged use of this plant, an upset stomach may occur.
Fireweed: medicinal properties and contraindications in the treatment of stomach ulcers
One glass of very hot water pour ten grams of dry grass and leave for three hours. Strain and drink one tablespoon three times a day. This tool has an enveloping property. Contraindications - intolerance of individual components of the plant.
Fireweed: medicinal properties and contraindications in the treatment of migraine
For persistent headaches, try the following recipe. Steam the flowers and leaves in a small bowl and, covered with a towel, breathe in steam. Ideally, of course, you need to use this method of dealing with a headache in a bathhouse. Steamed fireweed flowers emit a very pleasant smell, breathing which, you will feel an improvement almost immediately. Another such method helps to relieve fatigue and stress. Be sure to consult a doctor before starting self-medication. Be always healthy!