Lions Tail – Wild Dagga

Lion's Tail (Leonotis leonurus) is a perennial herb native to South Africa, known for its unique, slightly sweet and spicy flavor, and potential health benefits being its calming, relaxing, and mildly euphoric properties. It has a rich history of traditional use, and many people turn to this plant for its potential to alleviate anxiety and stress, making it a natural choice for those seeking tranquility. Tea from the leaves and flowers may aid with upper respiratory infection, fever, headache, high blood pressure, hepatitis, muscle cramps and liver stagnation.

Reasons why it is used in our herbal blends:

1. Form: Lions Tail leaves are lance-shaped dark green leaves which are quite pungent when crushed. The flowers are long and thin and the name Lions Tail comes from the tufted flower clusters' resemblance to the tail of a lion.
2. Fashion: The petals of the flower bring a bright orange uplifting color to any blend.
3. Flavor: Lion's Tail has a strong herby and distinct flavor, and when smoked or brewed in tea, it releases a smooth, velvety vapor with hints of spice. The taste can potentially be quite a sharp flavor and needs to be mixed with something sweet to take the harsh edge off.
4. Function: Lions Tail is known for its soothing and calming effects and for its potential to reduce stress and anxiety, making it a good choice for relaxation. Lion's Tail contains a range of bioactive compounds, including leonurine, leonine, and other alkaloids which are known to give a mild euphoria effect in higher doses. The plant is also a general tonic, having reputed dermatological, hypertension, anti-inflammatory, pain and wound healing properties.
5. Blending: Lions Tail pairs well with other herbs like Passionflower, Blue Lotus, and Damiana, creating a calming, relaxing, and sleep-promoting herbal smoking blend. It can also be combined with more stimulating herbs like various mints, or Gotu Kula to create an uplifting and refreshing blend.
6. Smoke quality: The smoke produced by Lions Tail is characterized by a light, gentle feeling with a soothing effect on the lungs. It has been smoked for generations in Southern Africa as a substitute for tobacco or cannabis.

Lions Tail leaves and flowers have been known to be used for:

- Anxiety and stress relief: Lion's Tail has been traditionally used to calm the nervous system, reducing anxiety and stress.

- Relaxation and sleep aid: Lion's Tail may help regulate sleep patterns, improving the quality of sleep and reducing symptoms of insomnia.

- Mild euphoria and mood enhancement: Lion's Tail has been reported to produce a mild, euphoric effect, enhancing mood and reducing symptoms of depression.

It has also been known to bring about;

• A sense of calmness and relaxation, with reduced anxiety and stress
• A feeling of mild euphoria and mood enhancement, with improved focus and concentration
• A soothing, sleep-promoting effect, with improved sleep quality and duration
• A potential increase in creativity, imagination, and problem-solving skills

In summary, Lions Tail is a soothing, calming herb that offers a range of potential benefits and effects. When used in a herbal tea or smoking blend, it can add a relaxing, calming, and mildly euphoric-like effect.

Precautions:

As with any herbal ingredient, it's essential to use Lion's Tail in moderation and be aware of any potential interactions with medications or health conditions. Lion's Tail may interact with certain medications, including blood thinners, and may not be suitable for individuals with certain health conditions, such as high blood pressure or heart problems.