Icewort

Properties

Material Characteristics

In its natural state, icewort is a small herb rarely growing to a height of more than 25-30 cm. It has tight clusters of small, dark green leaves with pale green veins, occasionally with light green variegation. In the autumn it develops strings of pale purple berries.
In its medicinal form, the leaves are dried and used in teas, while the berries are dried and ground to a powder. The most potent form is a deep purple liquid, distilled directly from fresh berries.

Geology & Geography

Icewort is typically found in cold, often mountainous climates. Its broad but shallow roots are particularly adapted to rocky areas with thin soil layers.

Life & Expiration

In dried form, the icewort can last for several years, though it is generally advisable to use it within its first season.

History & Usage

Everyday use

Icewort has various medical uses, ranging from an icewort leaf tea being used as a mild sedative to extracts from the berries being highly effective analgesics, relaxants and paralytics. At higher dosages development of physical dependence is a real concern, but at these concentrations it is almost exclusively used in palliative care for pain management.
Common mythology holds that in the days before the Glaze, the necromantic cults of Svütz used Icewort to raise or control the dead, though this is generally considered by most serious historians to be apocryphal.

Hazards

In the past, icewort has been used recreationally for its hallucinogenic properties. In recent centuries, other drugs have overtaken it in popularity and it is seen as rather quaint and old-fashioned.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Prepared icewort is legally controlled in Linnadeigh, and can be bought on prescription from specially licensed chemists.

Storage

Distilled icewort is typically stored refrigerated, though it can be transported in cold weather without refrigeration for several days without adverse effects. The dried forms can be stored at room temperature.

Law & Regulation

In Linnadeigh, icewort is regulated and available on prescription.

Type

Wood

Odor

Fruity, with hints of pineapple

Taste

Tart, slightly bitter