MEDICINAL PLANTS

The agrimony is a herbaceous plant of the family Rosaceae, with an erect stem that can reach one meter high, the stem is topped by an inflorescence of bright yellow flowers that are arranged in a loose cluster. This grass is common throughout the Iberian Peninsula and the rest of Europe. In general it is easy to find on the banks of crops and on the edge of the oak forests and oak, preferring cool, shady place. The virtues of agrimony are known since ancient times and Dioscorides already described in his treatises. There is another variety, agrimony odorata, which is distinguished from the agrimony eupatoria by the fruit and more aromatic.

FLOWERING

Agrimony starts flowering in May and is throwing flowers late into the season. As a medicinal plant leaves interest and flowering tops. Proceed to the collection at the beginning of flowering, are dried leaves and tops separated and ensuring good ventilation and shade. After drying it is characteristic that both leaves and tops off a pleasant scent, mixed with a slight bitterness.

APPLICATIONS

The composition of the plant is not very well known, but is known to contain large amounts of tannins, some essential oil and a bit of silicic acid. Tannins give the grass a strong astringent and antidiarrheal; has been widely used in diarrhea and in various diseases of the mouth and pharynx. The use of agrimony is well known among people who have to strain much throat as speakers or singers. In the composition of the plant flavonoids have also been found, anti-inflammatory effect, as is used for rheumatic and other inflammatory processes. It is also useful in wounds and sores.

ADMINISTRATION

Infusion for rinse: nearly 100 gr. Leaves and flowering tops in one liter of boiling water and mild liquid after rinsing are conducted several times a day. Indicated for inflammation of the mouth. If this infusion is boiled for a while and add sugar or honey, you can gargle in case of throat illnesses.
Infusion to take: it is infused with the same amounts as the infusion rinses, is sweetened to taste each and after taking small cups filtered throughout the day. It is a useful remedy for colds, diarrhea and digestive problems.
For external use. A decoction of the plant in compresses, applied directly to sores and wounds. In pharmacy is available in the form of plant extract, dye, cut and plant as part of other composite presentations.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Rosaceae
HABITAT: Forest edges
FLOWERING: May
PART USED: Leaves and flowering tops
CASTILIAN: Hierba de San Guillermo
CATALAN: Agrimoni, severola
BASQUE: Latxaski, lapatiña
GALICIAN: Amoricos

USES

Strong anti-inflammatory, Astringency, Mild Vulnerary.