Potato

Solanum tuberosum

A starchy tuber and one of the most important food crops in the world. In folk use raw slices or grated potato are laid on burns, swollen eyes and for headaches; this has not been studied.

Safety notes

Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Healing traditions of the Americas: Green or sprouted potatoes contain solanine; do not eat them.

Preparation

Boiled, baked or dried as food; raw slices applied externally as a compress.

Use in traditions

The potato was domesticated some 8,000 years ago around Lake Titicaca; in the Andes farmers still know thousands of varieties. By alternately freezing and drying, Andean peoples make chuño, which keeps for years. Kallawaya healers use raw slices as a compress for fever and headache. In Europe the tuber only became a staple food in the 18th century. In herbal magic associated with fertility, protection and abundance.

Applications

Use by tradition

How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.

Healing traditions of the Americas

Attributed effects

In the Andes raw slices are laid on the forehead as a compress for fever and headache, and on burns; potato water is drunk for heartburn.

Preparation and amount

Raw slices externally; as food always boiled or baked.

Caution: Green or sprouted potatoes contain solanine; do not eat them.

Ways to prepare herbs: Compress, poultice and paste Powder and kitchen

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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