Amaranth
Amaranthus spp.
MEDICINAL: Amaranth is used to battle stomach flu, diarrhea, and gastoenteritis. It was used by
Native Americans to stop menstruation and for contraception. Applied externally, it can reduce tissue
swelling from sprains and tick bites. Not to be used by pregnant or lactating women.
RELIGIOUS: Amaranth is used to repair a broken heart. It is also associated with immortality, and is
used to decorate images of gods and goddesses. It is sacred to the god Artemis. Woven into a wreath, it
is said to render the wearer invisible. Also used in pagan burial ceremonies.
GROWING: Amaranth is an annual, whose varieties grow from one to five feet tall. It does not
transplant well, so sow it where you want it to grow. It is generally not picky about soil type, and
tolerates heat and drought well.
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