Medicinal properties and contraindications of common lilac. Common lilac. The healing properties of lilac What is tea from lilac shoots used for?
Lilac ( Syringa) is a flowering shrub, belongs to the flowering department, dicotyledonous class, order Lamiaceae, olive family, lilac genus.
There are two options for the origin of the Latin name of the plant lilac. According to the first, the name comes from the Greek word “syrinx”, translated as a pipe, which the flowers of the plant resemble. Other researchers suggest that the shrub was named after the nymph Syringa from ancient Greek mythology. In the old days, the Slavs called this plant “chenille,” which is probably due to the characteristic color of its inflorescences.
- Lilac Katherine Havemeyer
French classic variety of lilac with tall compact bushes and large inflorescences. Large double lilac flowers are painted pink with tints of bluish-lilac shades.
- Lilac Morning of Russia(Vehova selection)
a beautiful variety of lilac, representing a plant with spreading bushes of medium height and very large double purple flowers with pearly tips. Lilac flowers are collected in pyramidal inflorescences.
Types and varieties of lilac, names and photos
Today, more than 30 species of plants from the lilac genus have been studied and described, but a unified scientific classification still does not exist. The most famous varieties include the following:
- Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris )
a medium-sized shrub, sometimes growing into a fairly tall tree. The height of ordinary lilac can reach 7 meters. Very fragrant brushes up to 25 cm in size are collected from small simple flowers of white or light purple color. Based on this species, breeders have created many new varieties of lilac with pyramidal, round, cone-shaped and even cylindrical inflorescences. Varieties of common lilac:
- Lilac Beauty of Moscow
medium-sized spreading bush up to 4 m high with ovate-elongated foliage. The vertical inflorescences of lilac consist of large, pinkish-white, double flowers with a barely noticeable purple bloom. At the end of the flowering period, lilac flowers turn white.
- Lilac Aucubafolia (Aucubaefolia)
a tall, erect bush with light green leaves, on which small stripes and spots of yellow are visible. Lilac buds are pink-purple in color, and the large double flowers that open are bluish-purple.
- Lilac Sensation (Sensation)
a lilac variety of medium height (up to 3 meters), the leaves have a dark green color. The flowers are dark lilac with a white edge.
- Meyer lilac ( Syringa meyeri)
a miniature upright shrub no more than one and a half meters high, with broadly elliptical foliage of a dark green color, with edges along the veins on the underside, lighter side. Small (up to 10 cm) lilac inflorescences, consisting of small flowers, are painted in a light lilac-pink color. Based on this plant, the following varieties of lilac were bred:
a low-growing, late-flowering (until mid-June) variety with small, pleasantly fragrant red-violet flowers that turn pink as they age.
- Lilac Palibin
remontant dwarf lilac with erect inflorescences of mauve color with a pale lilac tint. The first time lilac blooms is in late May - early June, the second flowering is observed in mid-August.
- Shaggy lilac ( Syringa villos a )
an upright, medium-sized shrub with wide, elliptical, pubescent foliage on the underside, the length of which is about 15 cm. Lilac inflorescences, almost 24 cm in size, consist of medium-sized pink-purple flowers.
- Persian lilac (Syringa persica )
The species was obtained by crossing fine-cut and Afghan lilacs. The height of lilac is about 3.5 m, the leaves are light green and pointed in shape. Light purple flowers of medium size are collected in inflorescences with an unusual aroma. However, there are forms with white and red brushes.
- Drooping lilac ( Syringa reflexa)
a medium-sized upright shrub with a crown height of no more than 3 meters and elongated dark green ovoid leaves with a light edge along the veins. The flowers of this type of lilac are small (up to 10 mm), two-colored on the outside (pink with a reddish tint) and almost white inside, forming gracefully hanging racemes.
- Hungarian lilac ( Syringa josikaea)
an upright bush about 4 meters high, with densely branched shoots and dark shiny foliage. The inflorescences consist of small, long-tubular flowers of lilac color and are almost odorless. Lilacs begin to bloom at the end of May.
- Broadleaf lilac ( Syringa oblata)
a plant with a high spreading spherical crown up to 3 m, can develop in the form of a shrub or tree. The broad, heart-shaped foliage is about 10 cm long and 7 cm wide. Conical inflorescences up to 12 cm in size are colored pale purple or violet-lilac. This type of lilac begins to bloom early and delights with flowers from late April to early May.
- Hyacinth lilac ( Syringa hyacinthiflora)
A medium-sized bush with heart-shaped, pointed leaves that turn purple-brown in autumn. Small loose clusters consist of rather small flowers of a bluish-purple color. Several varieties have been created based on this type of lilac:
a medium-sized, profusely flowering plant with large light purple, pleasantly smelling flowers, collected in large (up to 20 cm) inflorescences.
An early flowering variety with large red-violet buds. When open, lilac flowers are colored silver-purple with a delicate pink tint.
Where does lilac grow?
Wild lilacs in natural conditions are distributed only in Europe and Asia, as well as the islands of Japan. Its habitat is limited to three isolated mountain regions:
- The Balkan-Carpathian region, which includes Albania and Serbia, Croatia and Hungary, Slovakia and Romania.
- The Western Himalayan region includes India and China, Nepal and Pakistan, and Bhutan.
- The East Asian mountainous region, represented by the territories of Eastern and Central China, Primorsky Krai, Japan and the Korean Peninsula.
Cultivated varieties of lilac grow throughout Eurasia, from Portugal to the shores of Kamchatka, cover part of the coast of the African continent (Morocco), and thrive in the countries of North and South America, as well as in Japan.
Medicinal properties of lilac and contraindications
Lilac flowers and leaves have been used since ancient times in folk medicine to treat various diseases. They are used as one of the components in the preparation of herbal preparations or as an independent remedy.
- An aqueous tincture of lilac flowers has a diaphoretic, antimalarial and analgesic effect. It is used to treat whooping cough and kidney diseases, headaches, and colds. An infusion of white lilac flowers is used for shortness of breath, stomach ulcers and to eliminate noise in the head.
- Lilac leaves, like plantain leaves, heal festering wounds, as they have disinfecting and antibacterial properties.
- Ointment and alcohol tincture of lilac are used to relieve pain and treat rheumatism and salt deposition in the joints of the upper and lower extremities.
- An infusion of lilac leaves is an indispensable remedy for the treatment of festering wounds; it is used as a drug that has an antipyretic and diaphoretic effect.
Lilac: planting and care
Lilacs are often planted as a border and ornamental plant in city park areas and in private gardens. In order for the plant to feel comfortable and enjoy its flowering for a long time, certain conditions must be observed when planting lilacs in the ground:
- The best soil for lilacs is light sandy loam or loam with a neutral or slightly acidic pH level.
- The place for seedlings should be well lit and, if possible, protected from drafts.
- You cannot plant lilacs in places with high groundwater, so it is better to choose elevated areas.
- To prevent the bushes from interfering with each other in the future, it is better to plant lilac bushes at a distance of at least 2 meters.
- The optimal size of the planting hole for lilac is 0.5x0.5x0.5 m, however, if fertilizers are added during planting, its size can be increased.
White Amur lilac (Syringa amurensis)
How to choose lilac seedlings?
The quality of the seedling is of great importance. Particular attention should be paid to the condition of the root system. Ideally, lilac roots should be developed, strong, flexible and well branched. If their length is much greater than 0.3 m, they are shortened. In addition, broken and diseased roots, as well as damaged or too long shoots, are removed from the lilac seedling.
An important condition for the rooting and further growth of the bush is the fight against perennial weeds, which take away nutritious juices, and loosening the soil, ensuring access of oxygen and moisture to the roots.
When to plant lilacs? In spring or autumn?
The time for planting lilacs depends on the variety: some varieties can be planted in early spring or autumn, while other varieties are best planted between July and August.
How to plant lilacs correctly?
Drainage is placed at the bottom of the planting hole, which can be expanded clay, small crushed stone or pebbles. After that, a small cone is poured from the excavated soil, on which the roots of the lilac seedling are straightened. Next, the rest of the soil is carefully poured into the hole. It should be remembered that the root neck of a lilac, when planted correctly, should be 3-4 cm above the ground level.
Watering lilacs
Watering has a great influence on the development of lilacs. However, you should not over-moisten the soil, as this can damage the plant. The optimal period for abundant watering is the first half of summer. Lilacs should be watered at the rate of 25-30 l/m2 as the soil dries. In August and September, the plant should be limited in water nutrition and given only during prolonged drought.
How to fertilize lilacs?
To provide the plant roots with the necessary macro- and microelements, mineral and organic fertilizers are applied to the root soil. Urea or ammonium nitrate is used as a source of nitrogen necessary to improve the growth of lilac branches and leaves. Fertilizing lilacs should be carried out at the rate of 50-80 grams of fertilizer per bush for the entire growing season in 3 doses, starting in early spring after the snow cover melts. The break between applications of dry fertilizing is 25-30 days. Fertilizers are embedded in the soil to a depth of about 8 cm over the entire area of the root system. You can also feed lilacs with superphosphate and potassium fertilizers. A good result is obtained by alternating fertilizing with mineral and organic fertilizers (cow and chicken droppings).
Lilac pruning. How to prune lilacs?
Proper regular pruning of lilacs plays a great role in shaping the appearance of the bush. A young bush up to 3 years old does not need pruning, since all its skeletal branches have not yet formed. However, starting from the third year of the plant’s life, in early spring, while the buds have not yet swelled, it is necessary to carry out formative pruning. When performing this operation, you should adhere to a simple rule: no more than eight healthy buds should be left on each lilac skeletal branch. This is done so as not to overload the plant during flowering. In addition, it is necessary to remove old, dry, damaged and diseased branches. All operations are performed only with a sharp instrument.
During active flowering of lilacs, pruning is carried out “for a bouquet”. Following the unspoken rule, about 30% of the inflorescences are cut off. After the end of lilac flowering, all wilted brushes are cut off.
The benefits and harms of lilac are actively used in home medicine - the plant not only blooms beautifully, but also treats ailments. To figure out when the properties of lilac will benefit and when they will harm the body, you need to learn more about the medicinal products from this plant.
What does lilac look like and where does it grow?
Lilac is a shrub from the Olive family, reaching a height of 7 m. Lilac is usually formed by many spreading or straight upward-pointing branches, abundantly covered with oval or elongated leaves. In early May, the shrub blooms profusely with pink, blue, purple or white inflorescences and emits a delicate, pleasant aroma with soothing notes.
In the wild, lilac grows mainly in the Balkans - in Romania, Greece, Albania and Yugoslavia in forests and on mountain slopes. This shrub is cultivated throughout the central zone, including in Russia - in the Central region, in the southern part of Western and Eastern Siberia, in the south of the Far East, in the steppe zones.
Chemical composition of lilac leaves and flowers
The benefits and harms of lilac for the body are very diverse, and they are determined by the internal composition of the leaves and flowers of the plant. Lilac contains:
- resins and tannins;
- coumarin derivatives;
- vitamin C;
- flavonoids and phytoncides;
- substance syringin;
- alkaloids;
- farnesin and farnesol;
- essential oils.
The beneficial properties of the green parts of the plant have not yet been fully studied. But even based on the available data, lilac can be considered very valuable for the body.
What are the benefits of lilac?
Many healthy medicinal drinks that improve well-being are prepared from the plant. The benefits of lilac for the human body are that the plant:
- has anti-inflammatory, antipyretic and antiseptic properties;
- has a mild analgesic effect;
- helps remove excess fluid from the body, has a diuretic effect, therefore it is used for the prevention and treatment of kidney stones;
- reduces blood glucose and is beneficial for diabetes;
- reduces swelling and inflammation in joint ailments, improves the condition of ligaments;
- has a beneficial effect on the skin and promotes the healing of damage and irritation.
The useful plant has a vasodilating effect, so it helps with migraines and varicose veins. The plant is widely used for cosmetic purposes; lilac has a rejuvenating effect on the skin.
How to prepare lilac tincture with vodka or alcohol
Medicinal tinctures of lilac buds are used to treat ailments; most often in combination with alcohol or vodka, the plant fully reveals its beneficial properties. Preparing the tincture is simple; for this you need:
- pour 100 g of fresh flowers or leaves with a liter of vodka;
- mix thoroughly, seal tightly with a stopper and put in a dark place for 3 weeks;
- Shake the container with the tincture periodically to better distribute the nutrients.
When the useful product is ready, it will need to be filtered and taken for medicinal purposes in accordance with the recipes. The tincture must be stored in the dark; the dosage of the medicine depends on the specific disease.
Attention! It is strictly forbidden to use alcoholic tincture without special indications; if you treat the medicine carelessly, it will cause harm.
How to use lilac tincture
The benefits of lilac tincture are revealed in many diseases - the folk remedy gives an excellent effect. The tincture can be mixed with other medicinal components, slightly changing the dosage and time of administration.
From high temperature
The beneficial properties of the plant help reduce fever during flu and colds and eliminate intoxication of the body. For medicinal purposes, a tincture of alcohol or vodka is taken on an empty stomach, only 50 ml three times a day.
To increase effectiveness, you can add 5 drops of eucalyptus oil and 5 g of crushed fresh wormwood to the classic remedy. The ingredients will enhance the anti-cold properties of the tincture and help relieve fever even more quickly.
Against cough
For bronchitis and persistent colds, the medicinal properties of lilac are also beneficial. A good effect is demonstrated by the usual tincture diluted in warm tea without sugar - you only need to add 20 ml of the medicine per cup of tea.
Take the tincture immediately before bedtime. In total, treatment can be continued for no more than a week, since the medicine contains alcohol; if used for a long time, it will harm the body.
For sore throat and laryngitis
The properties of lilac leaves and flowers are beneficial for inflammatory processes in the throat. In this case, it is recommended not to drink the tincture, but to use it for rinsing. Just 2 large spoons of the product are diluted in a glass of water and gargled 4-6 times a day.
For lower back pain
For muscle strains, rheumatism and other pain in the lower back and back, rubbing with a tincture of the plant is beneficial. A small amount of the product is applied to the sore spot and rubbed in with strong movements. Lilac has a warming effect, and the beneficial substances in its composition, penetrating into the tissues through the skin, relieve inflammation and pain.
For kidney diseases
The benefits and harms of lilac flowers are used for kidney ailments - the plant tincture relieves inflammatory processes and helps eliminate stones. For 500 ml of vodka, take only 50 g of raw material, mix and close the lid, and then keep the tincture in the dark for 2-3 weeks. Take it three times a day, 20 drops on an empty stomach; therapy can be continued for no longer than 3 weeks to avoid harm.
Attention! In case of kidney disease, an overdose of alcohol tincture becomes especially dangerous. You can use the product strictly in accordance with the recipe, without exceeding the specified daily allowances, otherwise it will be harmful to your health.
For headaches
The smell of lilac is beneficial for migraines and headaches associated with vascular spasms. In this case, the tincture is used externally - a cotton pad or gauze swab is moistened in the medicine, and then wiped on the forehead and temples. After a quarter of an hour, the headache should subside.
For wounds and bruises
Another area of application for the healing properties of lilac is skin damage and bruises. Wounds, abrasions, hematomas and burns can be wiped with a diluted tincture - 10 drops of the product per 100 g of water.
For osteochondrosis, arthritis and arthrosis
The benefits of lilac for joints are manifested in the vast majority of diseases - the tincture relieves inflammation, eliminates the feeling of stiffness, and reduces pain. The tincture is prepared according to the traditional recipe, and you drink only 20 drops twice a day so as not to cause harm.
For severe pain, the affected joints can be rubbed with the medicine. A useful tincture will properly warm the sore spot and quickly relieve discomfort.
For gout
The benefit of lilac buds is that a tincture based on them can remove deposits of harmful salts from joints. For gout, it is recommended to take the product with alcohol three times a day in a small dosage - only 15 drops on an empty stomach, so that there is no harm.
For varicose veins
Rubbing with a healing tincture can improve the condition of legs with varicose veins. The ingredients for the medicine are mixed in the usual proportions - 100 g of raw materials per liter of alcohol or vodka. But you need to infuse the product longer, for 1.5 months.
The treatment itself is as follows: twice a day, the protruding veins on the legs are moistened with the tincture, but not rubbed in, but left until dry. In combination with medications and physical therapy, lilac has an excellent effect in the fight against varicose veins.
For tuberculosis
Phytoncides, essential oils and flavonoids in lilac have a beneficial effect on the respiratory system. With the help of a tincture of the plant, even the symptoms of tuberculosis can be mitigated. The tincture prepared in the usual way is taken twice a day on an empty stomach in the volume of a small spoon.
Advice! To increase the beneficial properties, lilac can be mixed with fresh or dry St. John's wort at the first stage of preparing the tincture - there will be no harm from this.
Other traditional medicine recipes based on lilac
The benefits of lilac flowers are most fully revealed in the composition of an alcoholic tincture. However, not all people can use products based on vodka or alcohol; in some cases, such drugs are harmful and are completely contraindicated. Therefore, home medicine offers other useful recipes that use the properties of lilac wood, its leaves and flowers.
Water infusions of lilac
Tea made from lilac flowers, or a water infusion, which has anti-inflammatory and strengthening properties, is beneficial. It is prepared like this - 3 large spoons of dried flowers or leaves are poured with 2 cups of boiling water, and then left under the lid for 6 hours.
The infused drink is passed through a strainer or gauze and drunk three times a day, 30 ml. A useful remedy improves the condition of diabetes, helps well with asthma, and will not cause any harm if you have a cold.
Lilac decoctions
The benefits and healing properties of white lilac are manifested when preparing a water decoction. About 2-3 large spoons of crushed leaves and flowers should be poured into a glass of hot water, put on low heat and cook for another 5 minutes after boiling.
Then the broth must be removed from the heat, wrapped in a thick towel or blanket and left to steep for 6-8 hours. The fully prepared product is taken in a large spoon before meals, and the decoction helps best with inflammatory processes in the body and renal colic.
Lilac ointment
The healing properties of lilac flowers are revealed in the composition of a homemade ointment. Fresh or dry buds are crushed to a powder in the amount of 1 large spoon, add 4 tablespoons of lard and another 1 small spoon of honey.
The ointment, mixed until smooth, is applied to inflamed joints and injured areas of the skin in the evenings before bed. A useful remedy promotes rapid healing of wounds, smoothes scars and relieves pain and swelling of the joints.
Lilac oil
Lilac oil is beneficial - it is used for massage and therapeutic rubbing. Prepare the product as follows:
- fresh lilac flowers are placed in a liter glass jar;
- the raw materials are filled to the top with sunflower, and best of all, cedar oil;
- The vessel is closed with a lid and left to infuse for 2 weeks.
After infusion, homemade oil will need to be strained to separate the raw materials from the liquid part. For joint pain, rheumatism, salt deposits and varicose veins, rub the skin with a remedy; the oil is also beneficial when treating wounds, bruises and healing burns.
The use of lilac in cosmetology
Lilac is one of the most common components in cosmetic products. Plant extracts can be found in lotions, tonics, creams and masks for facial skin, and as part of hygiene products for body care. Lilac is added to shampoos and hair rinses, aromatic oils and bath foams.
The beneficial properties of the plant's flowers have a very beneficial effect on the skin. Lilac has a restorative and tonic effect, cleanses and softens dry or rough skin, and rejuvenates the epidermis. It is used in many homemade masks, mixed with herbal infusions, glycerin, vegetable oils and other products.
The properties of lilac essential oil are used in aromatherapy. The delicate and light aroma has a calming effect on the nervous system, eliminates stress, and helps with insomnia. Essential oil in the amount of a couple of drops is added to homemade hair masks and relaxing baths; if desired, it can be heated in an aroma lamp and improve the microclimate in the room.
How to use lilacs in cooking
The benefits of white lilac flowers are used in the preparation of various dishes - mainly delicious delicacies. In particular, lilac is used:
- in making jam- an unusual delicacy made from flowers with the addition of lemon juice has a pleasant sourness and delicate aroma;
- in making ice cream- milk, cream and sugar with the addition of a small amount of flowers are boiled over a fire, and then cooled, infused in the refrigerator, mixed with maple syrup and frozen;
- in the preparation of flavored sugar- the flowers are simply covered with granulated sugar in a sugar bowl, and after about a week the sugar acquires an unusual aroma.
If desired, the flowers of the plant can be added to many drinks and foods. If you use a healthy plant in small quantities, it will not cause any harm, but it can add a fresh, original touch to the most ordinary dishes.
The benefits and harms of lilac jam
During the preparation of jam, flowers are subjected to heat treatment and partially lose their valuable properties. However, for the most part, the benefits of the plant are retained in the finished product. Lilac jam can be used for colds and inflammations; it is of great benefit for nervous disorders, since both the taste and aroma of the unusual delicacy have a calming effect.
As for the harm of such jam, it is contraindicated for diabetics. A sweet product will harm your health because it will increase your glucose levels. You should refuse delicacies if you are predisposed to obesity and during exacerbations of gastric ailments.
Harm of lilac and contraindications
Despite its extensive list of beneficial properties, lilac can cause harm to the body. You should not consume plant-based drinks or products:
- with acute renal failure and glomerulonephritis;
- for pancreatitis, ulcers and gastritis in the acute phase;
- for atonic constipation and amenorrhea;
- if you are allergic to lilac.
Decoctions and infusions should be used with caution during pregnancy and lactation, and alcohol tinctures are strictly prohibited in these conditions - they will only cause harm. It is dangerous to abuse lilac - the substance syringin in the composition in excess quantities can lead to severe poisoning.
Collection, preparation and storage of lilacs
The collection of raw materials is carried out at the end of spring, shortly before flowering or at the very beginning. In this case, it is customary to cut off the inflorescences along with the leaves and tops of the branches, since all parts of the plant are used to prepare useful products.
The collected raw materials are dried in the fresh air, spread out in a thin layer on a flat surface away from direct sun. After the lilac is completely dry, it is crushed and placed in fabric bags or paper bags. In a dry and dark place, the plant can retain its valuable properties for up to 2 years.
Conclusion
The benefits and harms of lilac are determined by the amount of use of products based on it. You cannot take tinctures and decoctions in large quantities, as this can lead to poisoning, but if you follow proven recipes, lilac will only bring benefits.
But a bouquet placed in a small room for an aesthetic or supposedly medicinal purpose (aromatherapy) can have a negative effect on the body, causing headaches, dizziness, nausea, and so on.
This means that even the most healing plant can have the opposite effect if used incorrectly. Tincture of lilac flowers with vodka is one of the most popular and effective recipes used by the people. And it is about this, in particular - about its proper preparation and use, that we will now talk about.
Composition and properties of lilac
The range of substances that were identified in the flowers of this shrub during laboratory testing is extremely wide.
They contain vitamins, minerals, essential oils, phenoglycosides, phytoncides, farnesin, sinigrin, resins, and so on. The healing effects of common lilac are easily explained by its unique biochemical composition.
Note! Scientific medicine is very skeptical about products made from lilac, which are based on alternative medicine recipes. This is due to the high content of syringin glycoside in lilac flowers, which, when it breaks down, forms hydrocyanic acid, which is a rather toxic substance. Therefore, the decision regarding the use of this or that recipe remains solely with you, and the responsibility for the result of the treatment lies with you.
Despite this, many recipes based on which are prepared from the color of the common lilac were used extremely widely for a variety of ailments in the past, and continue to do so now.
They have the following basic properties:
Sweatshops
As you know, with sweat the body not only loses moisture or cools down, but also removes dozens of various toxic substances. In this regard, lilac flowers will have a positive effect.
Painkillers
This is indeed true: the substances contained in the flower of the plant can very effectively tame pain of various etiologies. This property was widely used back in the days when there were no powerful pharmaceutical painkillers.
Antiseptic
By using lilac products internally or externally, you can protect yourself from infection, suppuration in places of cuts, the formation of abscesses, and so on. The antiseptic effect of lilac is quite pronounced.
Expectorants
For wet and dry coughs, lilac has a positive effect on the respiratory system, simultaneously thinning mucus (if necessary) and promoting its elimination.
Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial
These properties are widely used in the treatment of many colds in adults, practically guaranteeing the fastest possible recovery and restoration of strength.
Lilac harvest time and raw material procurement
As a rule, folk recipes use shrub flowers, which concentrate most of the substances beneficial to the human body. Since it is the common lilac that is most often used in alternative medicine, it is customary to use purple flowers.
Collection and preparation of raw materials. This stage is extremely important, since a high-quality useful product can only be prepared from high-quality raw materials. Lilac flowers are harvested in the very phase of their budding.
How it's done: The branches with lilac inflorescences are carefully cut with a garden knife or pruning shears, then they are tied into small bunches (3-5 branches each) and hung in a dry, well-ventilated and dust-free place.
They dry from one to two weeks, depending on the conditions that have their influence at a given time. The shelf life of finished dry raw materials (in glass containers with lids or in special bags) is 1.5-2 years.
It is traditionally believed that lilac flowers are more beneficial. However, since they contain more syringin glycoside, white flowers are sometimes used.
Lilac tincture with vodka - uses that heal
It is the alcohol (vodka) tincture that is the most popular lilac remedy, used both internally and externally. It effectively helps to resist the appearance of, or get rid of, a number of certain ailments. Before using the product, you should buy it or prepare it yourself.
The second is more recommended, as it allows you to subsequently use a quality product. But a tincture purchased by hand cannot guarantee this, since you never know: by whom exactly, under what conditions and using what technology the product was prepared, as well as where the raw materials for it were collected.
By the way, regarding the collection of raw materials! Never use flowers that grew near highways, factories, etc. to prepare home remedies. That is, raw materials must be collected exclusively in environmentally friendly areas.
How to prepare the tincture. To do this, you will need the flowers of the bush, as well as (if possible) its leaves. Next is the recipe, which is one of the most popular and, at the same time, effective and safe.
Flowers should be placed in a glass jar. Their weight (directly the weight of the raw materials itself) is 95-100 grams.
Pour the raw material with 900 milliliters of alcohol, store-bought vodka, or homemade moonshine. After this, tightly cover the jar with a regular nylon lid, placing it in a dark and relatively cool place for a period of about 9-11 days.
After it expires, there is no need to strain the product. But, it is already ready for use externally or internally.
I should store it under the same conditions in which it was prepared. Shelf life: up to 1 year.
What does this alcohol tincture treat?
It will be useful in a number of cases:
✔ For kidney diseases, including kidney stones.
✔ For cough and pulmonary tuberculosis.
✔ As an effective antipyretic.
✔ In case of malaria infection.
✔ For ailments associated with impaired functioning of the cardiovascular system.
✔ For headaches, migraines.
✔ For injuries, especially bruises.
✔ For disorders in the central and peripheral nervous systems.
✔ For fungal, viral, bacterial (both acute and chronic types, ailments).
✔ For arthritis and gout, as well as polyarthritis, rheumatism and even osteochondrosis.
By the way, for problems with the musculoskeletal system (in particular, joints), tincture of lilac flowers is really one of the best folk remedies, which can compete even with traditional pharmaceutical modern drugs sold in pharmacies.
The use of tincture in different cases may differ. This way you can achieve the most pronounced positive effect. Let's look at the most common cases (through the prism of variations of the above home recipe).
For kidney diseases. The ratio of the main ingredients changes. So, for 1 liter of vodka or alcohol you should take 50 grams of raw materials. Next, prepare everything according to the recipe already given above. This folk medicine should be used 18-20 drops 2-3 times a day immediately before meals. Course: 2-3 weeks.
For cardiovascular diseases. 500 milliliters of alcohol per half-liter, tightly compacted jar of lilac. Prepare according to the same recipe. Use 1 teaspoon for pain in the heart area, washing down the medicine with water.
For coughs of various etiologies. 40 grams of lilac flowers (white), preferably fresh, pour a liter of alcohol “in glass” and leave for 15 days in a dark place with a low air temperature. The finished product should be diluted with warm unsweetened tea: 20 milliliters per 200-250 milliliters of tea. Drink just before bed. Course: up to one week.
For migraines and headaches of other etiologies. Classic tincture recipe, external use. You will need cotton wool or clean gauze, which you simply need to soak in the tincture, squeeze out a little and wipe your forehead and temples. Use as needed.
Throat diseases, including sore throat. A classic recipe for preparing vodka tincture is used, one and a half tablespoons of which are diluted in 90 milliliters of warm drinking water.
Then, gargle with this solution every 4 hours until the desired effect is achieved. Along with this method of treating the throat, you can use a sore throat, which also has excellent results for sore throats.
For dermatovenerological problems (do not use on mucous membranes!), as well as for bruises and small cuts. Apply externally. Tincture - prepared according to the classic (very first) recipe. It is necessary to apply lotions to the affected areas of the body 6 times a day. The average course is about one week.
Lilac tincture with vodka and alcohol - use for joints
For healing the musculoskeletal system and, in particular, joints, tincture is one of the best options. It helps perfectly at night, used as a “rub”.
For osteochondrosis, arthrosis and arthritis
Here, rubbing with tincture prepared according to the classic recipe is used. To enhance the effect, you can add a few tablespoons of bee honey. Rub the affected areas 1-2 times a day. Course - up to 1 month.
After rubbing, do not expose the body to hypothermia. It’s better to immediately wrap yourself in a woolen blanket. The same applies to the cases given below.
Rheumatism and discomfort, pain in the lumbar spine
Pour a glass of lilac (its flowers) with 450 milliliters of vodka. Infuse the product for 11 days, after which, without straining, it can be used by rubbing the sore spots 2 times a day.
Gout and salt deposition in joints
Classic recipe for vodka liqueur. Take it orally, immediately before meals, 25 drops, diluting them in half a glass of drinking water, three times a day. Course: 2.5-3 months.
For varicose veins
Fill a jar (0.5 liters) with lilac flowers, or with leaves. Pour vodka and leave for a month and a half. After this, strain. Wet the affected areas of the body 1-2 times a day without rubbing.
This treatment method is quite effective. It can be used as an additional drug, along with pharmaceuticals, and also as a main one.
Tincture of white lilac flowers - recipe with vodka or alcohol
White lilac is not used so often, but it also has extraordinary positive effects. In principle, we can state the fact that they are almost identical to those observed when using folk remedies from lilac flowers of the bush.
And the not so significant popularity of products made specifically from white lilac can be explained by the fact that it is not as widespread as common lilac. Among other things, white flowers are especially good for helping with heel spurs.
To prepare the remedies, you should take 100 grams of fresh, just picked flowers and pour 1 liter of vodka (alcohol, moonshine) over them. Leave in a cool, dark place for about 12 days. After that, you can apply it. Shake the jar before each use.
Apply 3-4 times a day, making lotions for 20-30 minutes. At the same time, you can use the infusion orally: 20 drops 2 times a day before meals. This will help significantly enhance the positive effect.
Contraindications to the use of lilac tincture
We should not forget that even the safest remedy has its contraindications and warnings for use. The same applies to lilacs.
Take lilac tincture orally only after consulting a doctor.
Contraindications:
- Children's age up to 16 years! Can be used externally starting from 5 years of age, after prior consultation with a pediatrician.
- Individual intolerance.
- Acute diseases of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Glomerulonephritis.
- Amenorrhea.
- Kidney failure (chronic).
- Atonic constipation.
In any case, before you start using this or that product prepared on the basis of white, and even more so purple, lilac, it is better to consult a general practitioner or pediatrician (if we are talking about a child). Be healthy!
Common lilac (Syringa vulgaris).
Description. Deciduous bush of the Olive family (Oleaceae), 2-5 m high, with a spreading dense crown. The diameter of the bush trunks can reach 15-20 cm. The root system is located in the upper layers of the soil.
Old trunks with dark gray or gray-brown bark that peels off in narrow strips. The bark of young plants and young branches is smooth and gray. Annual shoots are yellowish-gray or olive-green in color, with almost imperceptible lenticels, ending in two thick, tetrahedral buds, rarely one. The scales on the buds are arranged crosswise (8 external and 4 internal).
The leaves are opposite, simple, petiolate, 4-12 cm long, 3-8 cm wide, heart-shaped at the base or straight cut, entire, pointed towards the apex, green, dense, glabrous. They fall green.
The flowers are bisexual, from lilac to violet (of different shades), also white, small, fragrant, long-lasting, collected in paired, pyramidal erect or drooping panicles, the length of which is 10-20 cm. There are from 100 to 400 flowers in a panicle. Blooms in May. Fruit ripening in September - October.
The lilac fruit is a two-locular capsule up to 1.5 cm long with several light brown, leathery-winged oblong seeds. The birthplace of lilac is the Balkan Peninsula. Distributed throughout the CIS. Prefers neutral or slightly alkaline, easily warmed soils, open, illuminated places. Grows in gardens and parks, near housing. Abundant flowering occurs in the 6th year.
The plant lives up to 100 years. Propagated by seeds and root shoots. In Europe, lilac has been cultivated since the middle of the 16th century.
Collection and preparation of raw materials. For medicinal purposes, flowers, leaves, and buds of common lilac are used. Flowers are harvested at the beginning of flowering. The collection is carried out in sunny weather. The flowers are separated from the racemes, scattered in a thin layer (1-2 cm) and dried for several hours in the sun. Next they dry in the shade under a canopy. Can be dried in a room with normal ventilation.
The leaves are harvested in dry weather, usually during the flowering period of the plant. Can be harvested until mid-summer. Dry in the shade under a canopy. Can be dried in a dryer at 40-60°C. The shelf life of raw materials is 2 years.
Composition of the plant. Common lilac flowers contain essential oil, glycoside syringin, phenol, farnesol, syringopicrin. The bark, leaves and branches contain the glycoside syringin, bitter substances, and vitamin C.
Medicinal properties of lilac, application, treatment.
Preparations of common lilac have diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory properties, stimulate appetite, and promote the passage of stones and sand in case of urolithiasis.
In folk medicine, lilac flowers in the form of infusion or tea are prescribed for malaria, influenza, acute respiratory diseases, whooping cough, cough, diarrhea, rheumatism, stomach ulcers, pulmonary tuberculosis, diabetes mellitus, shortness of breath, leucorrhoea.
Tincture of lilac flowers - for rheumatism, neuralgia, rheumatoid polyarthritis, arthralgia, gastric ulcer, shortness of breath, leucorrhoea, for the treatment of wounds and bruises. Tea made from lilac flowers is taken for epilepsy.
Infusion of leaves - for malaria, influenza, acute respiratory diseases, as a diaphoretic, and also as a means to stimulate appetite.
Infusion of kidneys - for diabetes, allergic skin rashes. Fresh crushed leaves are applied to poorly healing wounds and ulcers.
Dosage forms and doses.
Infusion of lilac flowers. One full tablespoon of flowers is poured into a glass of boiling water. Leave for 6-7 hours, filter. Take 1-2 tablespoons 3 rubles. in a day.
Infusion of leaves and infusion of buds It is prepared in the same way as the infusion of flowers and taken in the same dosage.
Tincture of lilac flowers. A quarter glass of lilac flowers is poured with 200 ml of 40% alcohol or vodka and left for 2 weeks. 40-50 drops take 3 r. in a day.
Ointment. Dried lilac leaves are ground into powder. One part of the powder is mixed with four parts of Vaseline. Used externally for neuralgia and arthralgia.
Warning. Common lilac – poisonous plant, therefore, its drugs should be taken carefully, without exceeding the dosage. The period of taking drugs orally is up to 3 weeks.
Lilac is a small shrub or tree from the oilseed family. Its dark green leaves appear in early spring and remain that way until late autumn. The leaves are petiolate and have a heart-ovate shape. The flowers are large panicles that are located at the ends of the branches. They have a wonderful aroma and amazing lilac-violet and white colors. Blooms in May - June. The fruits are seeds that are easily carried by the wind. Lilac appeared in Europe in the 16th century, where it was brought from Turkey. It is an excellent ornamental plant, widely cultivated throughout its distribution area.
Harvesting and storing lilacs
Leaves, flowers and buds are used for medicinal purposes. Flowers are collected when the flowering process is just beginning. For this purpose, the inflorescences are cut off along with the branches, tied and air-dried in a suspended state. Leaf collection begins in May and continues until July. To dry them, dryers are used, where the temperature is set at 40-60 degrees, or sheds, where they are spread in a thin layer. The finished raw materials are stored for 2 years. Propagated by both cuttings and seeds.
Use in everyday life
Blooming lush lilac bushes with a dizzying aroma evoke positive emotions and have a calming effect on the nervous system, which is why they are often planted in gardens and summer cottages as decoration. The presence of essential oils in lilac makes it very popular in cosmetology and perfumery.
Medicinal properties
- For medicinal purposes, traditional medicine suggests the use of leaves, flowers, buds and young bark of lilac. Antipyretic, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, analgesic, diuretic, anticonvulsant, sedative properties allow us to recommend it for use in many diseases.
- Lilac preparations are used for oral administration in the treatment of bronchial asthma, malaria, diabetes, upper respiratory tract diseases, radiculitis, rheumatism, and colds.
- A positive effect of lilac preparations on the body has been noticed in cases of pulmonary tuberculosis, as well as in urolithiasis, when the process of removing stones and sand improves.
- Today, lilac is an important plant in relieving pain from rheumatism, osteochondrosis, arthritis, and bruises. It also helps with festering wounds and ulcers.
- Dried leaves of the plant, brewed as tea, are used for epilepsy, especially this tea, which helps if consumed for a long time.
- The essential oil found in lilac has bactericidal properties. This plant is widely used in cosmetology.
Use in folk medicine
Infusion of lilac leaves for malaria, kidney disease, kidney stones
To prepare the infusion you need 2 tbsp. spoons of crushed leaves pour 1 cup of boiling water. Place the mixture on the fire and bring to a boil. Place in a warm place to infuse for 2-3 hours, filter. Drink 1 tbsp infusion before meals 4 times a day. spoon and so on for 2 weeks. After 2-3 weeks, repeat the course of treatment.
Tincture of lilac leaves for inflammatory kidney diseases, in the presence of stones in the renal pelvis
Vodka tincture is prepared in a ratio of 1:20. After infusion, the tincture is consumed 15-20 drops before meals 3-4 times a day.
Infusion of lilac flowers for respiratory diseases, tuberculosis and bronchitis
An infusion of lilac flowers is made as an antitussive. To do this, dial 1 tbsp. spoon of flowers, pour 1 cup of boiling water, leave to infuse for 1 hour. After straining, take 1 tbsp. spoon 3-4 times a day.
Lilac tincture for rheumatism, gout, joint arthritis, salt deposits
In the presence of such diseases, the following treatment is recommended. The collected flowers are placed in a glass container to the top, everything is filled with vodka or 40% sports and left to infuse in a dark place. After three weeks, the tincture is filtered. Take 30 drops before meals 3 times a day for 3 months.
Lilac infusion for polyarthritis, rheumatism, radiculitis
To prepare it you need 1 tbsp. leave a spoonful of flowers and a glass of boiling water for 1 hour, strain, drink 3-4 times a day, 1 tbsp. spoon.
Tincture of lilac flowers for the treatment of bruises, wounds, rheumatism
To do this, 1 glass of flowers and half a liter of vodka are infused for 2 weeks. This tincture is used for compresses and lotions in the treatment of bruises, rheumatism and wounds. The dressing is changed several times a day.
A heel spur is treated using exactly the same recipe. Bandages are made and 30 drops are taken orally 2-3 times a day.
Lilac flower ointment for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis
Anesthetic ointment from lilac is prepared as follows: 2 tbsp. spoons of flowers, which are thoroughly crushed and ground with butter, of which you need to take 2 tbsp. spoons.
Fresh lilac leaves and their decoction for the treatment of non-healing wounds and ulcers
The affected area is first steamed well, then covered with fresh, clean leaves, which are fixed. On the first day of treatment, change the leaves 3-4 times, then once a day. Fresh leaves applied to the head stop headaches.
Fresh lilac leaves for the treatment of arthritis, radiculitis, osteochondrosis
The rubbing is prepared as follows: 2 tbsp. spoons of very crushed leaves are poured with 300 ml of radish juice, 200 g of honey, 100 g of vodka. Leave for a day. Mix. The rub is ready.
Infusion of buds, flowers and leaves to cleanse the skin
This infusion can be used to tone, disinfect and cleanse the skin. Pour 1 teaspoon of the mixture (buds, flowers, leaves) into 1 glass of boiling water. Leave for 30 minutes. Use when washing.
Oily skin with acne is wiped with alcohol tincture of lilac, which must first be diluted with water 1:1. The tincture was described above.
Contraindications
Lilac is a poisonous plant. It should be taken orally with caution to avoid poisoning, which can occur with an overdose of the drug. It is better that the treatment process is supervised by an experienced herbalist. You should know that lilac flowers should not be placed in a room where people stay for a long time.