Elemental Queen

It's Witchcraft. Mostly medieval. Recipies, Remedies & Curiosities

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Mithridate, also known as mithridatium, mithridatum, or mithridaticum, is a semi-mythical remedy with as many as 65 ingredients, used as an antidote for poisoning, and said to be created by Mithradates VI Eupator of Pontus in the 1st century BC.

Images show an ornate Mithridate jar and old pyxis filled with mithridite before opening.

First off, Mithridate is a ridiculously inclusive recipe of which Pliny rebuffed:  "The Mithridatic antidote is composed of fifty-four ingredients, no two of them having the same weight, while of some is prescribed one sixtieth part of one denarius. Which of the gods, in the name of Truth, fixed these absurd proportions? No human brain could have been sharp enough. It is plainly a showy parade of the art, and a colossal boast of science.” 

I think it is interesting in that it it belongs to a class of Panacea potions known as Theriacs thought to ward off ALL poisons and plagues. Who would need this? Well, to start with, it derives it’s name from Mithridate’s own father’s lethal poisoning and also poison was a very common method of assasination from antiquity through the rennaisance. 

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ADAPTOGENS: A DESIGN FOR ALIGNMENT:

Throughout Human history exists a quest for a cure all, or elixir vitae. It is this seeking that keeps us connected to nature- the mother of all medicine. To me, an ADAPTOGEN simply means a plant or combination of plants that instruct or remind the body how to find balance. Adaptogens work with the adrenal system to normalize the way our body reacts to stress. Here is my recipe for an adaptogenic tonic:

Adaptogenic Trinity: Alaskan Devil's Club Root, Comprehensive medicinal mushroom blend, and pink Roses.

1.North American Mushroom Blend: Mycologists around the world are continually discovering new uses and benefits of medicinal mushrooms for our bodies and the environment. Mushrooms encapsulate the entire cycle of death, decomposition and rebirth within their lifespan. They have the uncanny ability to exert a normalizing effect on all body processes, hence the term “adaptogen”. This Mushroom blend can be considered antibiotic, anti-bacterial, anti-parasitic, anti-carcinogenic, anti- aging and anti-inflammatory.

2.Alaskan Devil's Club Root- (also known as Alaskan Ginseng- though not a true member of the Ginseng family) has been used by indigenous people for centuries especially for inflammatory conditions centered in the joints and connective tissue. In folklore it is imbued with powers of bodily protection and strength- sometimes portrayed as a club, sometimes as a walking stick. The symbolism is clear.

3.Pink Rose Buds- Although not traditionally classified as an adaptogen- Fragrance itself indicates a deep level of interaction between the human body and spirit. The power of this most revered of blossom winds within this special formula to elevate the mood and bind together these extraordinary plant medicines. Rose extract brings astringent and anti-viral properties and can encourage the production of bile from the liver- gently stimulating digestion.

Some other Adaptogenic plants I enjoy: Borage, Rhodiola, Chaga Mushroom, American Ginseng, Ashwaganda and Shisandra berry.

(statements are my opinion as an herbalist and not to be construed as medical advice please)

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By Megan Vybiral Bauske for Priory Pharmacia:

Hericium Erinaceus- Satyr’s Beard mushroom (commonly known as lion’s mane)

This mushroom is postulated to have uncanny powers to fight cancer, uncler’s pancreatitus, general inflammation, reduce blood sugar and much more. However I am interested in it’s ability to improve cognitive function:

In studies being done today, scientists are trying to ascertain the impact this mushroom has on dementia. There has been evidence of nerve cells stimulation and enhancement of cognitive abilities. Growth of nerves was also enhanced too. 

I put both a water and an alcohol extraction of it in my completed Brain tonic with amazing results: Partnered with Rosemary, American Ginseng & supportive herbs, the tonic turned out to be so effective that I have dubbed it “natures adderral” (joke). Students are pleased with it’s ability to help them focus and stay alert, and process complex ideas. Go figure, Mushrooms are rad. www.prioryherbs.com

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By Megan Vybiral Bauske for Priory Pharmacia:

I finally got the chance to sample out my "Oxymel old world health tonic"I am interested in the crossover between ancient Greek and ancient Persian medicine. Up til now it's been a bit of a hard sell because customers have to kind of imagine what the syrup will taste like mixed with sparkling water. They loved it!!!!! Recipe is listed in previous post. More specific info on Ancient Greek/ Persian remedies to come. & medieval recipes too.

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By Megan Vybiral Bauske for Priory Pharmacia: 

"Tonic for a Bleeding Heart" from www.prioryherbs.com an immune/circulation/cardiovascular boost with Hawthorn, Elderberry & Turmeric.

Hawthorne and Elder are legendary sentinels of any classical garden. In the middle ages and antiquity they were imbued with powers of protection and the ability to mend the heart both physically and metaphorically.

First and foremost these plants are a powerful immune tonics and fortify the entire cardiovascular system. Full of antioxidants, vitamins B, C and bioflavonoids. Turmeric is known for it's incredible anti-inflammatory properties which can help lower blood pressure. This tonic is infused with rose quartz for just a touch of old world magic!

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By Megan Vybiral Bauske for Priory Pharmacia:

Sekanjabin is a sweet-and-slightly-sour mint drink, this can be traced back to 16th century Persia. Similar to the "oxymel" health tonic of ancient greece. Any medicinal herbs may be used for different flavors & desired affects. 

My specific recipe for Sekanjabin is a bit stronger than the typical recipe so that I can imbue the mixture with as much herbal medicinal value as possible. Here it is:

1.For at least 1 month I soak a variety of herbs in organic apple cider vinegar 2.pour the whole mixture into a glass pot along with nearly an equal part raw honey & simmer (not boil) for at least 1 hour. The syrup will reduce some. 3.Strain, bottle, cork & sell in my shop as a concentrated syrup (no bacteria will grow in a honey & vinegar mix as long as you start with sterile equipment.

Directions for use: choose the formula for your ailment or preference, add 1/2 oz to h20 (I like sparkling) and enjoy the plentiful benefits of raw honey, raw apple cider vinegar AND medicinal herbs. 

I prefer my herbal medicine in this form because every ingredient is healthful. It is easier and cheaper to make an alcohol based tincture, but Sekanjabin and Oxymel have something something magical about them- from the making to the ceremony of drinking. Bring on the amino's, enzymes, minerals and herbal formulas!