Daucus carota
Family: Apiaceae
Biennial. Native to temperate zones worldwide. The wild
carrot is more strongly endowed with the wholesomely odoriferous and stimulating
essential oils than is the domesticated carrot. These have
pronounced carminative (gas-relieving) effect. The whole herb may
be collected and dried for tea. The seeds themselves may be taken
internally as a birth control measure. I have heard this works pretty
well, but wouldn’t rely on it alone to prohibit conception. Queen
Anne’s Lace is the closest living relative (on the basis of family and
medicinal activity) to the Silphion, which was picked and used by the Romans
as a culinary spice and contraceptive until it became extinct in the first
century AD. Supposedly Nero was given the last remaining root.
He should have planted it back in. Note: Although Queen
Anne’s Lace seed is not toxic, Conium maculatum (Hemlock) seed which
can readily be confused with Daucus carota is indeed very seriously
toxic. Know and trust your supplier, or grow your own! Cultivation:
Easy. Direct seed during mild weather in early spring. Thin
seedlings to 3 inches apart. Flowers to 4 feet in the second year.
Not
for sale to WA state.
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