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Understanding Herbs - Lemon Balm

4/26/2020

7 Comments

 
Picture
Its very nearly May. Waking up this morning, despite the clouds, there was a soft warmth in the air, the birds were singing, and both herbs and vegetables are popping up in all of my garden beds. This is also a time that the air is fragrant with the scent of lemon balm as the plant's volatile oils begin to warm up with the morning sunshine.

Lemon balm holds a long history in herbal tradition. It is a beautiful springtime plant that stretches its blooms into summer. It has been extremely popular in both kitchen and medicinal gardens since the early middle ages (and earlier). Lemon balm holds great importance in European domestic medicine as a drinkable spirit or basic nervous system sedative.

The genus Melissa is widely diffused, having representatives in Europe, middle Asia, and North America. The name is from the Greek word signifying ‘Bee’, indicative of the attraction the flowers have for those insects, on account of the honey they produce. The word Balm is an abbreviation of Balsam, the chief of sweet-smelling oils. It is called this due to its honeyed sweetness. It was highly esteemed in ancient times by Paracelsus, who believed it would completely cure any ailment.

I hope you enjoy this bit of information about this very common but exceptionally powerful herbal ally. In the following you will find gathered information about its common uses, its actions, constituents, pharmacy, historical and traditional usage, contraindications and warnings, clinical studies, and its usage in both aromatherapy and as a hydrosol.
​
As with any form of herbal medicine, the below information is not meant to replace medical advice or prescriptions from your Medical Doctor. All information below is based off of Materia Medica texts and comes from published and historical sources. References have been included at the end of the article.

​Family: Labiatae
Parts Used:  Leaves and Flowers/ All aerial parts
Other Common Names:  Balm, Balm Mint, Bee Balm, Blue Balm, Garden Balm, Sweet Balm, Cure-all, Dropsy Plant

Actions:
Anxiolytic (no formal studies done)         
Antihistamine                                                   
Carminative       
Cooling                                                                
Anti-viral (topical)                                           
Antimicrobial
Sedative                                                             
Anti-stress                                                        
Hepatic
Calming                                                                               
Anti-flatulent                                                    
Trophorestorative
Diaphoretic                                                        
Febrifuge                                                           
Mild vasodilator
Antispasmodic                                                 
Nerve relaxant
Anti-depressant                                               
Heart-sedating effect
Anti-bacterial (myco-bacterium phlei and streptococcus haemolytica)

Chemical Constituents:
  • Flavonoids
    • Luteolin-7-glucoside
    • Rhamnazin
  • Triterpenes
    • Ursolic acid
    • Pomolic acid
  • Volatile oils
    The volatile oils appear to act on the interface between the digestive tract and the nervous system.
    • Citronella
    • Neral
    • Geranial
    • Caryophyllene oxide
  • Polyphenols
    • Protocatechuic acid
    • Caffeic acid
    • Rosmarinic acid
    • Tannins

What are its uses?

Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat:
  • Nervous headache
  • Dizziness/Vertigo
  • Migraine (combined with Nutmeg)

Integumentary System (Skin):
  • Burns
  • Blisters
  • Herpes (specific and directly on the sore – Herpes simplex)
  • Stings

Nervous System/Mental Health:
  • Nervousness
  • Depression
  • Anxiety
  • Panic attacks
  • Insomnia
  • Debility and weakness of nervous origin
  • Chronic stress (specifically in men)
  • Shock
  • Feeling of “low spirits”
  • Restlessness and restless legs
  • Protects the cerebrum of the brain and is effective in treatment of autonomic disorders – an action like modern tranquilizers (Usually combined with peppermint for this action).
  • Historical Commentary: “Balm is sovereign to the brain. It strengthens the memory and powerfully chases away melancholy.”
  • Neuralgic pain (combined with Nutmeg) – See Carmelite water commentary in historical pharmacy.
  • Tenseness
  • Irritability
  • Nervous breakdown

​Respiratory System:
  • Respiratory spasm
  • Convulsive coughing
  • Asthma

Digestive System:
  • Dyspepsia
  • General upset stomach
  • Flatulence
  • Nervous indigestion (best served as hot/warm tea after eating)
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Stomach cramps

Endocrine System (Hormones):
  • Hyperadrenalism
  • Hyperthyroidism
 
Cardiovascular System:
  • Heart Palpitations
  • Palpitations associated with anxiety
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • High blood pressure
  • Aneurysm
  • Rapid or superficial pulse

Immune/Lymphatic System:
  • Recent colds and fevers
  • Fever (It induces a mild perspiration and makes a pleasant and cooling tea for feverish patients in cases of catarrh and influenza. To make the tea, pour 1 pint (470ml) of boiling water upon 1 oz (25g) of herb, infuse 15 minutes, allow to cool, then strain and drink freely.)

Reproductive System:
  • Promotion of conception in women (traditional)
  • Deficient and painful menstruation
  • Leucorrhea
  • Hot flashes from Menopause (best combined with peach leaves)
  • Excessive sexual excitement (traditional)
  • Impotence (traditional)

​Specific Diseases/States/Infections/Viruses/Bacteria:
  • Suited to conditions of sympathetic excess
  • Fevers with nervousness
  • Fevers of young children
  • Nervous depression following exhaustive fevers
  • Convalescence when the digestion has long been irritated
  • Mumps
  • Shingles
  • Reaction to vaccine/Inoculation (mild reactionary state)
  • Historical Commentary: The London Dispensary of 1696 writes: “An essence of Balm, given in Canary wine, every morning will renew youth, strengthen the brain, relieve languishing nature and prevent baldness.”
  • Historical Commentary: “Balm steeped in wine comforts the heart and driveth away melancholy and sadness”
  • Historical Commentary: “The juice of Balm glueth together greene wounds” – likely meaning fresh or recent cuts or general wounds.
  • Historical Commentary: “Balm, being applied, doth close up wounds without any perill of inflammation”
  • Traditional: The leaves steeped in wine, and the wine drunk, and the leaves applied externally were considered to be a certain cure for the bites of venomous beasts and the stings of scorpions. It is now recognized as a scientific fact that the balsamic oils of aromatic plants make excellent surgical dressings.

​Combinations:
  • Combined with peach leaves for menopausal hot flashes
  • Sometimes combined with Lycopus in hyperthyroidism or is specific by itself
  • Traditional combination: Combined with peppermint (equal parts – generally 1 to 2 tsp of each) as a tea, infuse 15 minutes, drink one cup at bedtime for restful sleep or to improve digestion.
  • Combined with a pinch of Nutmeg it has a reputation for nervous headache, migraine, and neuralgia. Popular in all European pharmacopoeias.
  • Combined with salt for easing the pain of gout (historical/traditional)
  • Combined with Hops, Valerian, and Motherwort for sleep disturbances
  • In combination with chamomile, vervain, licorice, and fennel for infantile cholic

Pharmacy

Max Daily Dose: 1:2 @45%  Liquid Extract - 3 to 6ml
Max Weekly Dose: 1:2 @45%  Liquid Extract – 20 to 40ml
​

Applications:
Infusion:        
  • 1 to 2 teaspoons to each cup boiling water, infuse 5 minutes, drink 1 cup freely as needed.
  • Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 2 to 3 teaspoons of dried herb or 4 to 6g of fresh herb and infuse in a covered container for 10 to 15 minutes. A cup of this tea should be taken morning and evening or when needed
Tincture:
Best as a fresh tincture made in the spring when the plant is still tender and before it blooms.
  • 1:5 @ 45% 2 to 6ml tid     
  • 1:5 @ 40%  2 to 6ml tid
Liquid/Fluid Extract:
  • 1:1 @ 45% 2 to 4ml tid
Powder:
  • X2 210mg capsules three times daily
Bath:
  • 8oz (230g) herb to 10 pints (7 litres) boiling water. Infuse for 15 minutes. Strain and add to bath water for sleeplessness or nervous heart.
Aromatherapy:
  • 10 to 20 drops in ¼ cup powdered milk, added to bath water for sleeplessness or nervous heart, or to create a sensation of calm and light heartedness.
Hydrosol:
  • Melissa is calming to the body more than the mind but without being overly sedating. Use it for stress, anxiety, and childhood hysterics. Combine with rosemary while studying and with neroli to drink during exams. Has shown some positive results for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). For children with ADHA, use 30ml of hydrosol in one liter of water, consume throughout the day. For adults, double the quantity of hydrosol: 60ml to one liter of water.
  • During pregnancy lemon balm hydrosol can be used to treat morning sickness, digestive upsets, and water retention and as a system tonic for general well-being. You can also add a small percentage of cinnamon bark and peppermint hydrosols for morning sickness to great effect.
  • Melissa hydrosol is gentle enough for use on babies; try adding a teaspoon to a nighttime bath or blend with German chamomile or yarrow for cradle cap and diaper rash.
  • Taken internally, Melissa hydrosol makes a good preventative during flu and allergy season and as both immune-stimulating and some infection fighting properties.
  • Melissa hydrosol is a gentle cholagogue and has been used in digestive drinks for centuries; the hydrosol aids digestion and reduces the intestinal spasms and cramps associated with colitis and Crohn’s disease. In some people it has shown a laxative effect, so test in small doses first.
  • Melissa hydrosol is a good antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and can be used on its own or in blends as a skin clarifier and to calm rashes, irritations, and eczema.
  • Melissa hydrosol can be added to lotions and creams for antiaging and after-sun body care.
  • Do not use Melissa hydrosol internally if you have low blood pressure or are on blood pressure lowering medications (theoretical).

Misc:
  • Historical Pharmacy: Formerly a spirit of Balm combined with lemon-peel, nutmeg, and angelica root, enjoyed a great reputation under the name of Carmelite water, being deemed highly useful against nervous headache and neuralgic affections.
  • Historical Recipe for Fever: “Put two sprigs of Balm and a little wood sorrel into a stone jug, having first washed and dried them; peel thin a small lemon, and clear from the white, slice it and put a bit of peel in, then pour in 3 pints of boiling water, sweeten, and cover it close.”
  • Historical Recipe – Claret Cup: “One bottle of claret, one pint bottle of German seltzer water, a small bunch of balm, same with borage, one orange cut in slices, half a cucumber sliced thick, a liqueur glass of Cognac and one ounce of bruised sugar-candy. Place these ingredients in a covered jug, well immersed in rough ice, stir all together with a silver spoon, and when the cup has been iced for about an hour, strain or decanter it off free from the herbs”​

Clinical Studies

  • A single administration of lemon balm extract to volunteers resulted in a quantitative EEG recording that was distinguishable from that obtain from placebo. However, results from the self-rating of alertness did not differ from placebo. The dose was equivalent to 6.2g of dried herb.  An acute sedative effect was not demonstrated, but analysis after ongoing administration may yet demonstrate a sedative effect.
  • The effect of an herbal preparation containing valerian and lemon balm on objective sleep parameters was comparted with an orthodox sedative (triazolam) and placebo with 20 volunteers composed of both good and poor sleepers. The herbal preparation induced a significant increase in sleep efficiency in stages 3 and 4, and poor sleepers benefitted more from the treatment. No shortening of sleep latency and wake time were observed, and no rebound effects were observed. The herbal combination and triaxolam were tested on day 3 and day 6, respectively with baseline and placebo evaluated on days 1, 2, 4, 5, and 7. The daily dose corresponded to 1.4g of dried valerian root and 0.9g of dried lemon balm herb. The trial was of double-bling placebo-controlled, crossover design.
  • A post-marketing surveillance study in Germany involving 518 patients found an herbal combination of valerian, hops, and lemon balm to be a highly effective treatment for nervous insomnia and restlessness, with very few side effects. The dose administered ranged from one to nine tablets. One tablet contained 450mg of valerian dried root, 126.5mg of dried hop stabiles, and 225mg of lemon balm dried leaf.
  • A double-bling study on babies approximately 3 weeks of age with infantile colic investigate the effect of an instant herbal tea preparation containing lemon balm, chamomile, vervain, licorice, and fennel. After 7 days, the colic improvement scores were significantly better in the herbal tea group, and more babies in this treatment group had their colic eliminated.
  • Randomized, controlled clinical trials with lemon balm have yielded conclusive results for the topical treatment of recurrent herpes simplex virus type 1 infection. These trials used a cream containing 1% lemon balm extract (70:1). In one trial, the cream was used on the affected area two to four times daily for 5 to 10 days.

​Safety Concerns/Contraindications

  • Due to its emmenagogue effect (empirical evidence) as well as its antithyrotropic and antigonadotropic activity (in vitro; animal studies), it is not to be used in pregnancy. Fine to use as a hydrosol – no contraindications in pregnancy.
  • Not to be used in individuals with low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism). Due to its antithyrotropic effect (in vitro) and blocking conversion of thyroxin to T3 by liver cells (in vitro studies).
  • Not to be used by individuals with glaucoma. Due to ability of its main volatile component to raise ocular pressure in exceptionally low doses of 2 to 5mcg (in monkeys).
  • Not to be used by men with prostatic hyperplasia (speculative, no clinical evidence). Due to the increase in ventral prostrate epithelial and stromal growth from exposure to its major volatile component and its stimulating influence on estrogen receptors (topically in rats).
  • Not to be taken in combination with the drug pentobarbital or hexobarbital  due to its increased hypnotic and sedative activity (in mice and rats). It may increase the sedating activities of these drugs.

References

  • Medicinal Herbs Quick Reference Guide – Revision 7 by Julieta Criollo DNM, CHT – Self Published 2017
  • Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions Third Edition by Francis Brinker ND – Eclectic Medical Publications Sandy Oregon 2001
  • The Encyclopedia of Essential Oils – The Complete Guide to the Use of Aromatic Oils in Aromatherapy, Herbalism, Health & Well-Being By Julia Lawless – Conari Press 2013
  • A Modern Herbal by MRS. M. Grieve – Dover Publication NY 1971
  • The Earthwise Herbal A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants by Matthew Wood- North Atlantic Books Berkeley, California 2008
  • The Psychopharmacology of Herbal Medicine, Plant Drugs That Alter Mind, Brain, and Behavior- By Marcello Spinella – Massachusetts Institute of Technology 2001
  • The Male Herbal, Health Care for Men and Boys – By James Green – The Crossing Press Freedom California 1991
  • Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine – By Thomas Bartram – Robinson Publishing Ltd. UK 1998
  • A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs – By Kerry Bone – Churchill Livingstone Publishing, An Imprint of Elsevier 2003
  • Hydrosols the Next Aromatherapy – By Suzanne Catty – Healing Arts Press, Rochester, Vermont 2001
  • Medical Herbalism the Science and Practice of Herbal Medicine – By David Hoffmann- Healing Arts Press, Rochester, Vermont 2003
7 Comments

Agropyron repens - Couch Grass

6/8/2019

2 Comments

 
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I find that this herb has a bit of a 'forgetful' relationship with me. It's tremendously helpful for the urinary system and for kidney health, but so often when I feel I've tried everything else for a client I think..."oh wait!...I haven't tried couch grass!". It sneaks into my mind and gently reminds me that its there and ready to help. I've used it on clients with a variety of issues, though the most poignant was a client with kidney failure as part of their daily herbal formulation. Along with other herbs, I partnered it with 
nettle seed. I've found these two together to be quite an impressive combination for all things kidney, but specifically in issues with chronic kidney inflammation.

I hope you enjoy this little monograph.

In health and wellness,
​- Petra

General and Historical Info:
  • In Europe its distribution extends from Siberia, southward to Northern Africa.
  • Considered a pest/weed by most farmers.
  • The spikes resemble wheat or rye when in bloom, reaching heights of 1 to 3 feet.
  • Culpeper states “An acre of couch grass is worth 10 acres of carrots”
  • This is the grass to which a dog is said to go instinctively when the dog is sick, hence “dog grass”.
  • Also found in Northern Asia, Australia, and North and South America
  • Its name “couch” is supposed to be derived from the Anglo-saxon civice or qwice (vivacious/full of life), on account for its tenacity for life.
  • The name “agropyron” is from the Greek “agros” field, and “puros” wheat.
  • Couch grass was classified as Triticum by the older botanists, and appears under this name in older/historic herbal literature.

Common Names:
Couch Grass, Quack Grass, Cooch Grass, Twitch, Dog Grass, Quick Grass, Durfa Grass, Scotch Quelch, Triticum, Quecke (German), Chiendent (French), Grama (Spanish), Caprinella (Italian).

Family: Graminaceae
​
Parts Used: Rhizome (Dried), seeds
  • Only the long, slender, jointed, creeping rhizome, devoid of rootlets is collected.
  • Store in an airtight container because it readily absorbs moisture.
  • Should be unearthed in spring or early autumn. Wash it carefully and dry in sun or shade
​Actions:
Anti-bacterial, Anti-microbial, Diuretic, Demulcent, Tonic Diuretic, Aperient,              Catarrhal (General), Anti-Inflammatory, Laxative, Urinary Antiseptic, Nutritive    Emollient, Anti-Cholesterol, Remedy for dryness and atrophy, Antibiotic, Uricosuric  

Chemical Constituents:
  • Polysaccharides
    • Triticin
  • Mucilage
  • Saponins
  • Soluble silicic acid
  • Potassium
  • Inositol
  • Mannitol
  • Glycoside
  • Vitamin C
  • Carotene
  • Inulin
  • Flavonoids

What are its Uses?

Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat:
  • Restore poor eye sight (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • For individuals always blowing the nose
  • Chronic catarrh
  • Sore throat and tonsillitis when combined with Sage and Pennyroyal
  • Laryngitis
  • Bronchitis

Integumentary System (Skin):
  • Chronic skin disorders
  • Eczema, chronic wet or dry
  • Ulcers, cuts, and wounds
Nervous System:
  • Strengthening to the nervous system
 
Respiratory System:
  • Tubercular lungs (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • Bronchitis
 
Digestive System:
  • Jaundice (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • Stomach stimulant
  • General liver health
  • Vomiting
  • Worms in children, kills and expels (combined with wormwood)
  • Topically for peptic ulcers (hot/moist pack of heated seeds)
 
Excretory System:
  • Relieves constipation (Aperient)
Urinary/Renal System:
  • Urinary infections
  • Cystitis
  • Urethritis
  • Its demulcent properties soothe irritation and inflammation
  • Kidney stones – supposedly  possesses remarkable stone-dissolving properties
  • Kidney gravel
  • “Lessening the frequency and pain in cases of excessive irritation of the bladder from any cause” – Dr. Thompsom
  • Incipient nephritis
  • Uncontrollable urination (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • General kidney and bladder health
  • Uric acid solvent
  • Renal colic
  • Catarrhal diseases of the bladder
  • Irritation of the urinary passages
  • Remedy for heat and irritation of the kidneys and bladder from ancient times down to the present
  • Strengthening to urinary sphincters
  • By increasing water passing through the renal tract it decreases heat and irritation
  • Dilates the renal capillaries, thus allowing more water through and decongesting the kidneys
  • Renal sedative
  • Does not cause the kidneys to work harder (filter more blood), but opens up the tubules
  • Soothes the injured membrane of the urinary tract
  • Pain and straining of urination
  • Passage of scanty, bloody urine
  • Lack of free secretion from the kidneys
  • Incontinence, dribbling
  • Kidney disease with drain on the nervous system and enfeeblement
  • Albuminuria, glomerulonephritis; frequent and scanty urination, burning and scaling in the urinary tract, heavy dull aching pains in the regions of the kidneys
  • Nephritis

Endocrine System (Hormones):
  • Stimulates the metabolism and harmonizes its process.
 
Cardiovascular System:
  • Chest Pain (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • Formerly the decoction of couch-grass roots was a popular drink taken to purify the blood in spring.
 
Circulatory System:
  • Blood purifier
  • Reduction of cholesterol
  • Ability to assist in controlling high blood sugar

Immune/Lymphatic System:
  • Fever (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • Fevers when the urine is dark and scanty and there is thirst
  • General spleen health
  • Chronic, swollen lymph
 
Reproductive System:
  • Used primarily in the treatment of prostate diseases
  • Benign tumors of the prostate gland
  • Prostitis/Inflammation of the prostate
  • Syphilis (Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • Female corrective agent (Folk Medicine, as a tea)

Musculoskeletal System:
  • Couchgrass has been used with other herbs in the treatment of rheumatism (Folk Medicine, as a tea) 
  • Arthritis
  • Gout
  • Lumbago (Pain in the muscles and joints of the lower back, Folk Medicine, as a tea)
  • “It will relieve the constant ache in the back, which is due to precipitation of the crystalline secreted products within the tubules of the kidneys by furnishing abundant water for their solution. It flushes the kidneys, as it were, when renal sand has accumulated within the pelvis. Under these circumstances it is one of our most useful remedies” - Ellingwood

​

Herbal Pharmacy

The below information is meant as educational and informative only, do not self dose, please see an appropriate practitioner to discuss current issues and any medications you may be taking.
Combinations:
  • For cystitis, urethritis, and prostatitis it may be used with Buchu, Bearberry, or Yarrow
  • For prostate problems it can be combined with Hydrangea
  • For chronic gonorrhea it can be combined with Motherwort, Sandalwood, and Buchu
  • For non-operative enlarged prostate it can be combined with Fringe Tree and Saw Palmetto
  • For rheumatism complicated with prostatic involvement it can be combined with Motherword, Scurvy grass (Caclearia officinalis) and Black Cohosh.
  • For Kidney and Bladder can be combined with Buchu, Wild Carrot, Bearsfoot,  and Alfalfa

Misc:
  • Oral administration of couch grass infusion demonstrated the following results in a calcium oxalate urolithiasis model: a decrease in citraturia when combined with a high carbohydrate diet and an increase in calciuria and decrease in magnesiuria when combined with a standard diet – Grases F et al: J Ethnoparmacol 45(3):211-214, 1995
 
  • In Germany, the Commission E supports using couch grass with copious fluid intake to treat inflammatory diseases of the urinary tract and for preventing kidney gravel – Blumenthal M et al, editors: The complete German Commission E monographs: therapeutic guide to herbal medicines, Austin, 1998, American Botanical Council.

Max Doses:
Max Daily Dose: 3 to 6ml of 1:1 LE (1:1 @ 25%)
Max Weekly Dose:  1:1 @ 25% 20 to 40ml

Application:
Infusion
  • 1oz of couch grass to 1 pint of boiling water, steep 20 min. and given in wine glassful doses every 2 hr.
Decoction:
  • 1 teaspoon of the crushed herb to 1 cup boiling water, bid to tid.
  • Put 2 teaspoons of the cut rhizome in a cup of water, bring to a boil and let simmer for 10 mintes. Drink tid.
  • 1oz of the herb in 1 point boiling water, until reduced to ¾ pint. 10 to 20 drops in eater 2 or more times a day.
  • 2 to 3 teaspoons to each cup water, gently summer 5 minutes drink d. to bid.
  • 2 to 4oz in a quart of water and reducing down to a pint by boiling.
  • 2 to 3 tsp per cup, simmer 5 min, drink 1 to 2 cups tid.
  • 2 tsp per cup, simmer 10 min, drink 1 cup tid.
Tincture:
  • 3 to 6ml tid
  • 1:5 @ 40% 5 to 15ml (1 to 3 teaspoons)
  • 1:5 @ 40% 2 to 4ml tid
  • 1:5 @ 25% 5 to 10ml tid
  • Tincture of couch grass alone, 10 to 20 drops in water two or more times a day
Liquid/Fluid Extract:
  • 1:1 @ 25% 4 to 8ml
  • 1:1 @ 25% 2 to 6ml d.
  • Of the liquid extract ½ to 2 teaspoons in water.
Powder:
  • 1 teaspoon to a glass of tepid water, stirred, and drunk always before meals.
  • 250mg in capsules; 3 capsules tid.
Dried Rhizome:
  • 4 to 8g tid   

Further Commentary

  • Specifically, one of the most important symptoms for the prescribing of couch grass is a burning sensation and constant desire to urinate.
  • In pharmacy, used as a tablet binder.
  • On sandy seashores, the grass is often very abundant and assists in binding the sand and preventing the dunes from shifting.
  • Though commonly regarded in this country as a troublesome weed, its roots are, however, considered on the Continent to be wholesome food for cattle and horses.
  • The roots have a sweet taste, somewhat resembling licorice.
  • Dried and ground into a meal, bread has been made with them in times of scarcity.
  • The juice of the roots drank freely is recommended by Boerhaave in obstruction of the viscera, particularly in cases of schirrhous liver and jaundice, and it is noteworthy that cattle having schirrhous livers in winter soon get cured when turned out to grass in spring.
  • Couch grass is official in the Indian and Colonial Addendum of the British Pharmacopeia for use in the Australasian, Eastern, and North American Colonies, where it is much employed.  

Safety Concerns

  • History of food usage, generally regarded as safe.
  • No adverse effects expected (within recommended dosage).
  • Ok in pregnancy/lactation (however, some articles state, best to avoid due to lack of data)
  • Not to be used in cases of edema from heart failure or kidney insufficiency probably due to inadequate excretion of salt from its diuretic effect (Speculative).
  • (Theoretical, not seen clinically) Hypokalemia may occur if combined with K+ depleting diuretics. No drug interactions have been reported.
The above information is copyright to Petra Sovcov - Clinical Herbal Therapist - 2019
Reproduction or distribution of any of the above information in full or part is prohibited without written consent from the author.

References:
  • Herb Contraindications and Drug Interactions by Francis Brinker ND – Eclectic Medical Publications 2001-  pg 77
  • The Natural Guide to Medicinal Herbs and Plants by Frantisek Stary – Aventium Publishers 1991 Czech Republic – Page 38
  • The New Holistic Herbal by David Hoffman – Element Publishing Melbourne, Australia 1990 - Page 193
  • Indian Herbalogy of North America by Alma R. Hutchens – Shambala Boston and London 1991 – Page 97
  • Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Thomas Bartram – Constable and Robinson Ltd. 1998 – Page 131
  • A Modern Herbal by Mrs M. Grieve – Dover Publications NY NY 1971 – Page 370 to 371
  • The Earthwise Herbal A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants by Mathew Wood  – North Atlantic Books Berkeley, California 2008 – Page 60-63
  • Medicinal Herbs Quick Reference Guide – By Julieta Criollo DNM, CHT – Self Published Revision 3 2013 – page 123
  • A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs – By Kerry Bone – Chuchill Livingstone Press 2000 – Page 162
2 Comments

Materia Medica - Lady's Mantle

6/2/2019

0 Comments

 

Alchemilla monticolla/vulgaris : 
​Lady's Mantle

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It is always my desire to be certain that clients have their questions answered when they have them. I also feel passionate that individuals ought to have access to information about the herbs they may use. Often times information on the internet is not fully reliable, this is due to opinion and articles written by herbalists who may 
not fully grasp the herb they are commenting on. Though I feel most individuals post information with good intent, it is perhaps best to find information from clinical herbalists or published authors who have had a relationship with the herbs for years.
In saying this, here is a bit of information about one of my favorite garden herbs. Lady's mantle is often used in modern times as a beautiful decorative plant, but its past lies in wound healing and female issues.
​
I hope you enjoy!
- Petra

Parts of this article have been previously published in Home Herbalist Magazine

Often seen as a common decorative plant in gardens in North America and Europe, Lady’s Mantle has a rich and ancient history as a healing herb. It has been used in ancient Arabic culture as a traditional treatment in fertility and has been used in modern times to help balance female sex hormones and to normalize periods while also proving helpful in issues with menopause.
​

The leaves on this common garden plant are filled with tiny hairs that hold and trap morning dew in much larger droplets, allowing it to pool in the middle. It is said that these infused morning droplets boast much of the plants healing properties and in ancient times, this water was gathered for a myriad of female health issues.
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History:
  • The common name, Lady’s Mantle (in its German form Frauenmantle), was first bestowed on it by the 16th century botanist, Jerome Bock, also  known by the Latinized version of his name: Tragus.
  • In the Middle Ages, this plant has been associated, like so many flowers, with the Virgin Mary (hence it is Lady’s Mantle, and not Ladies Mantle), the lobes of the leaves being said to resemble the scalloped edges of a mantle.
  • In medieval Latin, we also find it called Leontopodium (lion’s foot), probably from its spreading leaves, thus, in french it has become Pied-de-lion.
  • The generic name Alchemilla is derived from the Arabic word, Alkemelych (alchemy), and was bestowed on it, according to some old writers, because of the wonder-working powers of the plant. Others held that the alchemical virtues lay in the subtle influence the foliage imparted to the dewdrops that lay in its leaves and the little cup formed at the center of the plant. These dew drops were often gathered for may mystic “potions”. As we know in modern times, water can be infused with plant constituents in sunlight (as flower essence or sun heated infusion) and so this is likely the science behind the “mystic potions”.
  • Lady’s Mantle was once considered one of the best vulneraries or wound herbs, indeed even Culpepper speaks of it:
  • “ Lady’s mantle  is very proper for inflamed wounds and to stay bleeding, vomitings, fluxes of all sorts, bruises by falls and ruptures. It is one of the most singular wound herbs and therefore highly prized and praised, used in all wounds inward and outward, to drink a decoction thereof and wash the wounds therewith, or dip tents therein and put them into the wounds which wonderfully drieth up all humidity of the sores and abateth all inflammations thereof.  It quickly health green wounds, not suffering any corruption to remain behind and cureth old sores, though fistulous and hollow.”
Picture
Family:  Rosaceae
​
Common Names: Lady’s Mantle, Lion’s Foot, Bear’s Foot, Nine Hooks, Leontopodium, Stellaria

Parts Used: Aerial parts (Dried; harvested May-Aug). Leaves, flowering shoots. Also, roots (topical use).

Actions:
Tonic, Astringent (especially the uterus), Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Alterative, Anti-hemorrhagic, Hemostatic, Bitter, Digestive Tonic, Menstrual Regulator, Emmenagogue, Diuretic, Vulnerary, Phyto-estrogenic (meaning plant based estrogen - this statement is inconclusive), Progesteronic ( meaning contains or helps the body to balance progesterone levels - this statement is inconclusive), Sedative, Angioprotective (protective of the heart or cardiovascular system), Drying and Binding (wound herb).

Chemical Constituents:
Tannins:
  • Consisting mainly of ellagitannins, including agrimoniin and laevigatiin               
Phytosterols                     
Salicylic acid (traces)                      
Flavonoids:
  • Glycosides of quercetin and kaempferol
Picture

What are its uses?


​Head, Ears, Eyes, Nose, and Throat:
  • As a mouth rinse after teeth extractions (gentle rinse, do not swish after tooth extractions).
  • Mouth sores (rinse)
  • Mouth ulcers (rinse)
  • Laryngitis (gargle)
  • Conjunctivitis (eye wash) – with caution and as a cooled infusion
  • Headache from congested blood which becomes worse before periods
    ​
​Integumentary System (Skin):
  • Bleeding or weeping eczema (topical)
  • Sores (topical)
  • Wounds (topical)
  • Cuts (topical)
  • Passive bleeding (topical – root or leaf)
  • Bruises (topical)
  • Pruritis (severe itching of the skin - topical)
 
Mental Health:
  • For sound and untroubled sleep – traditional European remedy
  • Nervousness
  • Agitation
  • Insomnia
  • Mood swings

Nervous System:
  • For convulsions in children.
 
Digestive System:
  • For acute diarrhea (including infants).
  • Loss of appetite
  • Peptic Ulcers
  • Gastric/Duodenal Ulcers
  • Gastroenteritis
  • Dysentery
  • Internal bleedings
  • Colitis with bleeding
  • Vomiting
  • General inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract
  • Hemorrhoids/prolapsed anus/anal fissures (enema – with caution and with combination of other herbs)
  • Nausea
  • Indigestion

Urinary/Renal System:
  • General inflammation of the urinary tract
 
Cardiovascular System:
  • Strengthening of the heart muscle (inconclusive)

Reproductive System:
  • Hormonal balancer
  • Irregular menses (stimulates proper timing and flow)
  • Metrorrhagia (abnormal bleeding from the uterus)
  • Menorrhagia (periods with abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding)
  • Dysmenorrhea (painful periods)
  • Menstrual Cramps – helps reduce pains associated with menstrual periods and ameliorates excessive bleeding.
  • Fibroids (abnormal growths that develop in or on a woman’s uterus)
  • Endometriosis (a painful disorder in which tissues that normally line the uterus grows outside the uterus)
  • Menopause (helps to ease associated symptoms)
  • Leucorrhea (douche)
  • Vaginal discharge (douche)
  • Candida/Yeast(topical wash or douche)
  • Inflammations (topical wash or douche)
  • Vulva/external vaginal itchiness (cream)
  • Increased Fertility (Traditional middle eastern)
  • Breast firming (Culpepper and Swiss traditional herbal)
  • Uterine astringent – possibly helpful in prolapsed uterus
  • Toning the pelvic floor
  • Vaginitis
    ​
Musculoskeletal System:
  • Rheumatism
​
​Specific Diseases/States/Infections/Viruses/Bacteria:
  • Alchemilla has long been used to drive water from tissues that are damp and weak. It is said to strengthen fibers and bring them back together into a more healthy and toned state.
  • In its traditional use of pulling tissues together, it has been used in repairing torn eardrums, hernia, muscles, and so forth.

​Safety Concerns and Contraindications:
Not to be used in pregnancy, has been used to aid labor.
  • No adverse effects expected
  • No drug interactions reported
​

Herbal Pharmacy

The below information is meant as educational and informative only, do not self dose, please see an appropriate practitioner to discuss current issues and any medications you may be taking.

Combinations:
  • With Trillium for menorrhagia.
  • With Vitex for menstrual disorders.
​
​Applications:
Infusion:
  • 1 to 2 tsp per cup; infuse 15 min - tid
Dried Herb:
  • 2 to 4 g. tid           
Tincture:
  • 1:1 @ 25% 2 to 4ml tid
  • 1:5 (dried) @ 25% 5ml tid
  • 1:2 (fresh) @ 40% 5ml tid
  • 1:5 @ 25% 2 to 4ml tid
Poultice/Ointment:
  • 15ml tincture (1:1 or 1:2 with alcohol reduction), 20ml rosewater, 50g base cream or ointment – for vaginal itchiness.
Powder:
  • Powdered Root: 2 to 4 g.
Mouthwash/Gargle:
  • Use as a strong infusion (tea) and rinse/gargle as needed.
Douche:
  • 2oz to 2-pint hot water; infuse 30 minutes and allow to cool. Strain and use as directed by an appropriate practitioner.
  • Use strong infusion, strained of herb, three times daily or as needed.
Vaginal Suppositories:
  • 20gtt tincture (1:1 or 1:2 - with alcohol reduction) to 20g cocoa butter molded into suppositories. Ea. Suppository is generally 5g – enough for roughly 4 suppositories.
Skin Wash:
  • Strong infusion (tea), 8 teaspoons to 1 cup boiling water, infuse 15 min and let cool.
​Misc:
  • The infusion is best for GIT issues, and tincture for menstrual issues.

The above information is copyright to Petra Sovcov - Clinical Herbal Therapist - 2019
Reproduction or distribution of any of the above information in full or part is prohibited without written consent from the author.

References:
  • Medicinal Herbs Quick Reference Guide by Julieta Criollo DNM, CHT – Self Published – Page 112
  • Herbal Healing for Women by Rosemary Gladstar – Fireside Publishing New York 1993 – Page 245
  • A Modern Herbal by Mrs. M. Grieve – Merchant Book Company Ltd 1973 – Page 462-463
  • Medical Herbalism by David Hoffman, FNIMH, AHG – Healing Arts Press Rochester, Vermont 2003 - Page 525
  • Herbs for Health and Healing A Drug-Free Guide to Prevention and Cure by Kathi Keville – Rodale Press, Inc. Emmaus Pennsylvania 1996 – Page 163
  • Potter’s Herbal Cyclopaedia by Elizabeth M. Willamson BSc., PhD, MRPharmS., FLS-Saffron Walten the C.W. Daniel Company Limited 1998 - Page 255
  • Medicinal Plants of the Pacific West by Michael Moore – Museum of New Mexico Press Santa Fe 1993 – Page 291
  • The Earthwise Herbal A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants by Mathew Wood – North Atlantic Books Berkeley, California 2008 – 65-69
  • Bartram’s Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine by Thomas Bartram -  Constable and Robinson Ltd. 1998 – Page 262
  • The Natural Guide to Medicinal Herbs and Plants by Frantisek Stary – Tiger Books International 1998 – Page 42
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    Petra Sovcov is not a Medical Doctor (MD) or a Naturopath (ND), she is a Doctor of Natural Medicine (DNM) and Clinical Herbal Therapist (CHT). The suggestions or recommendations made on this site  are not meant to be a substitute for advice from your MD, or as a substitute for any prescriptions you may be taking. Suggestions followed will be the responsibility of the reader, and are stated with the intention of interest and education only. If you have a health issue, please see your primary care physician (MD) first and foremost.

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