Is common wild plant in Britain, throughout Europe and parts of Asia. It is also found in North America. The flowers, leaves and finer stems are used in herbal medicine. It is often called the herbalists ‘bicarbonate of soda’ due to its antacid action.
This herb contains a variety of compounds including flavanol glycosides (quercitin in particular), phenolic glycosides, 0.2% volatile oil and polyphenols (tannins). The volatile oil contains a range of salicylates which are broken down in the body to form salicylic acid, a compound very similar to the pain killer - aspirin. It has mild analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as antacid, diuretic, astringent and stomich (relieves stomach pain) benefits.
Historically it has been used to treat a number of conditions including:
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It should be noted that this is not a replacement for aspirin because impractical amounts of the herb would have to be consumed to supply the same level of benefit. It is sometimes available as a dried herb for infusion to make herbal tea, in addition it is available in tinctures, as tablets or capsules. Qualified herbalists will be able to make other preparations.
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