Genista tinctoria is a species of shrub with clusters of small, yellow flowers. It is also known by several common names, such as common woadwaxen, Dyer's broom, Dyer's greenweed, and Dyer's greenwood. Various parts of Genista tinctoria have been used in natural medicine practices for centuries. Many people believe that by consuming it, it works to cleanse the body. Others believe that it can be applied externally to help heal fractures, tumors, and open wounds, but it is important to note that scientific research has not proven it safe to use nor effective as a medicinal treatment.
The stems of the flowers, leaves, and branches of Genista tinctoria are used to cleanse the body of toxins. For example, it is thought to work as a cathartic, cleansing and purging the intestines like a natural laxative. It is also thought to cause a person to sweat excessively as well. Some people believe that it works as a diuretic, increasing the frequency of urination and the amount of urine that is produced.
In centuries past, Genista tinctoria was given to encourage vomiting. This was particularly true if a person was suffering from such ailments as bronchitis or scarlet fever. It sometimes is used today if a person needs to cleanse his stomach or relieve it of its contents.
Many people believe that Genista tinctoria works as a stimulant. It is thought to increase alertness and energy and also to boost a person's mood. In fact, the chemical makeup of Genista tinctoria is thought to be similar to some narcotics. In addition, the entire plant is sometimes used to treat gout and rheumatism.
The seeds of Genista tinctoria may also be used. They are most commonly dried and crushed into a powder. Some homeopathic practitioners believe that the seeds are helpful in purging the body of toxins and disease.
In some homeopathic practices, the flowers alone are used. The flowers can be dried or oil may be extracted for medical uses. In those cases, the powder or the oil can be applied externally to the body. It is often used for the treatment of tumors, abscesses, sciatica, and even for fractures in the arms or legs.
Genista tinctoria is not to be used as a form of medicine by everyone, particularly since research has not been conducted as to its safety. For example, it is thought to be a vasoconstrictor, increasing a person's blood pressure. As a result, it should not be used by anyone with high blood pressure. In addition, it should be avoided by pregnant women since it is a purgative. People who take certain medicines, such as monoamine oxidase inhibitors, also should not consume the plant.
