In our yard we love seeing what Mother Nature brings to us naturally. We have found Milkweed, Goldenrod, several wildflowers and Jewelweed to be among our favorites.
Jewelweed is a plant that grows pretty much everywhere where I live in New England as it is native to North America. It has a huge presence in our yard and we let it grow as it wishes in several places as it just fills out the area it is in beautifully with green leaves and these pretty orange and yellow flowers. It grows to between three and five feet tall and often is in bloom during July through September where I am depending on the weather for the year.
One of the nicknames for this plant is touch me not. Jewelweed had seed pods that are white. When they are ready if you touch them gently they will burst or pop almost seeming to explode and gathering their seeds. It’s really a lot of fun to watch. I have no doubt that our having fun with them each year has helped to encourage them to grow everywhere in our yard!
Jewelweed is considered an herb as parts of the plants are useful. You can gather it any time during the growing season but you may find it to be stronger during the early growing season. Usually it grows in large bunches so when you harvest it try to make sure that you leave enough to grow mature enough to have seeds. You can pull out what you need by the roots or cut it as you wish. You will need to use it pretty quickly to make oils, salves or whatever you may be using for as it doesn’t keep long.
One of the most popular uses is as a remedy for Poison Ivy and to help with the effects of stinging nettle on the skin. The easiest method is to rub the stems of the plant on the impacted area. What’s interesting about this is that jewelweed will often grow in the same areas as poison ivy making it easy to find. You can also add it to a bath to help calm down allergic reactions.
Have a magickal day!
Much Love and Many Blessings,
Jasmeine Moonsong