(Agrimonia eupatoria)
Agrimony is a common herb and a member of the Rosaceae family. It is native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere and is also found in Africa. There are more than 12 species of Agrimony, the main two being Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) found in Europe, and Hairy Agrimony (Agrimonia gryposepala) which is found in North America. This plant can grow from 0.5 – 2m tall and is characterized by its slender spikes of yellow flowers. Its name is derived from the Greek word Argemone which means ‘plant that heals the eye’, referring to its popularity as a remedy for eye and visual ailments. This herb is often also known as liverwort, cocklebur, and sticklewort.
Healing Properties:
- Controls and lessens bleeding
- Heals wound
- Aids with liver function and digestion
- Reduces the severity of some food allergies
- Treats skin irritations such as blemishes, pimples, acne, rashes, psoriasis, and eczema
- Reduces blotching and excessive bruising
- Aids with sleep
- Treats menstrual difficulties
- Aids with coughs and sore throats
- Treats diarrhoea and other gastric issues such as IBS
- Has astringent properties which aids with bladder control
- Supports the function of the liver and the gallbladder
- Treats diabetes
- Increases hair and nail strength due to the presence of Silicic acid
- Has anti-cancer effects caused by the antioxidants neutralizing free radicals which are the dangerous by-products of cellular respiration which can cause cells to mutate
- Used to treat headaches
- Removes kidney stones by flushing out the kidneys
- Detoxes the body
- High in antioxidants
- Treats conjunctivitis and other eye ailments
Warnings:
Agrimony is considered a safe herb, but due to its astringent properties, can exacerbate constipation. It is also safe for children to use but pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid it unless approved by a doctor.
References:
- http://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-agrimonia.html
- http://www.botanical.com/botanical/mgmh/a/agrim015.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agrimonia
- http://www.anniesremedy.com/herb_detail217.php
- https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/herbs-and-spices/agrimony.html
- https://jonbarron.org/herbal-library/herbs/agrimony
- http://www.herbal-supplement-resource.com/agrimony-herb.html
- http://www.therighttea.com/agrimony-tea.html