Dreamsmary
The Dream Flower
This relative of rosemary and lavendar has the woody stems of rosemary and the flowering whorls of lavender. Favored by chefs, herbalists, and magic users, this plant has many uses both practical and fantastical.
Culinary Applications
Two main parts of this plant are used in cooking: the leaves and the seeds. Although the roots and the flowers are edible, they are considered not worth bothering with by chefs. They are both bitter, and the roots are too thin to make a meal.
The Leaves
The leaves of the dreamsmary plant have a distinct flavor unlike either rosemary or lavender. This flavor is best described as tasting like fresh cut grass smells. It is very commonly used in curries, but there are a few popular desserts that utilize this flavor as well.
The Seeds
The toasted seeds of the dreamsmary plant have a very similar flavor to that of chocolate, but with a peppery undertone. It is commonly used in desserts, although in Mexico it is a common ingredient in mole sauce.
In Herbalism
Herbalists most commonly use the seeds and the flowers of the dreamsmary plant. They will also use the root, dried and ground. Although the leaves can be used with similar effect to the flowers, they are not quite as effective and are largely not used.
The Seeds
The seeds of the dreamsmary plant act as an aid to digestion. Especially in cases of indigestion and IBS, the seeds can bring a great deal of relief. Usually the fresh or dried seeds are ground and put into a capsule to be taken before eating, although some herbalists will mix the ground dreamsmary seed with ground ginger. Dreamsmary seed and ginger are especially effective for use with motion sickness.
The Flowers
The flowers of the dreamsmary plant are commonly used as tea, and aid with insomnia and restlessness, lending to the name of the plant.
The Roots
The roots of the dreamsmary plant, in stark contrast to the flowers, are often used as a stimulant. Especially potent with dried root, it can be used as a replacement for coffee. The roots and the flowers of the plant should not be mixed, as they can cause serious neurological and cardiovascular harm.
In Magic
Magic users mainly use the dreamsmary flower, either fresh or dried, in spell casting. If they are unable to use the flower for whatever reason, the leaves and the woody part of the plant will do in a pinch.
A Magical Dreaming
Dreamsmary flower, when made into a potion infused with magic, produces true dreaming. More, these dreams are always remembered clearly. Commonly used to scry the past, this potion is in high demand amongst scholars, historians, and divorce attornies.
TC
Ooh, this is a really great take! I loved reading about all the different uses for the plant, nice work!