The botanical name for Self-heal is Prunella vulgaris. There are several herbs whose common name is All-heal. An infusion of the leaves taken thrice daily will soothe inflamed membranes associated with diarrhoea. Applied to cuts, it will stop bleeding and reduce scarring. It is one of the best wound herbs. Use as a gargle and mouthwash for sore throats and laryngitis. Apply juice of leaves, flowers or root to alleviate a headache. Useful in the treatment of haemorrhoids and heavy menstruation. Good for sprains, burns, cuts, diabetic sores, boils, conjunctivitis, tinnitus, vertigo, hepatitis, jaundice, swollen glands and bruises. Infusions or weak decoctions are used for heart ailments, acne, bruises, burns, cuts and diabetic sores. Use the tea as a gargle for throat irritations or chew the leaves for sore throats. The tea can be used as a wash for inflamed or sore eyes. Research indicates in may be useful in the treatment of AIDS, heart disease, venereal disease and cancer. The flowers can be used in infusion for children who are hyperactive. Usual Dosage: Pour 5 drops of the juice of the plant into 1/2 glass hot water. Allow to cool before drinking. Or pour 600ml boiling water over 30g dried herb, leave to steep for 10 minutes. Take 2-3 times daily, or use externally as a wash. Some basic recipes: To make a herbal ointment: Combine 1 part of powdered plant with 4 parts of softened lard or vegetable fat or petroleum jelly or mutton fat or melted beeswax or soft paraffin wax etc. Store for up to 3 months. (in the case of self-heal, use the leaves.) To make a herbal cream: Combine 30g dried or 75g fresh herb with 150g emulsifying wax, melted, 70g glycerine and 80ml water. Strain mixture through a fine cloth or coffee filter. Stir constantly until the mixture is cool. Transfer to small jars, seal and label. 5ml of borax or a few drops of friarÂs balsam (tincture of benzoin) added to the mixture will extend shelf life. Storage time is about 3 months. Rub cream onto affected area 2-3 times a day.

That's either normal reaction to California chill,or the medium stage of its death too be. If its chill.no big deal. It will flush for you in soucal in February and shed worn leaves. If its serious anthracnose,it will soon shrivel. Shriveling stems is sure death. Don't let it go dry and keep the good care. If it dies,that's not unusual for seedling Mangoes here.

Just my experience and that is limited as I don't prune my plants much at all since I use cages. But if it's warm, dry and sunny it's within just a few hours. Otherwise I'd think it could take 48-72 hours, especially if wet. But mulching with something is always a good idea regardless. Dave

Karen, the other day you wrote such an uplifting and motivational comment for another GW member who is currently facing life difficulties that I actually bookmarked it as a reminder if I ever face the similar situation (we all do). I had no idea that you had the strength to write it in this terrible time of your own personal loss. My heartfelt condolences. Your approach to your garden as a healing place and to gardening as a healing process is touching and inspirational. There is the tranquility in your beautiful place that I am sure your beloved kitties and your mom feel both from near in this lovely garden and from afar in heaven.