MEDICINAL PLANTS

The Alder is a beautiful tree the family Betulaceae, in optimal conditions can reach 30 m. High and the century old. In winter it is completely bare, sprouting new leaves in spring, which are touch viscous dark green. The bark is brownish and shows cracked. A tree grows in wetlands, swamps, river banks and in fresh and shady forests. The peninsula is easily found throughout the Pyrenees and the northern mountain ranges. Also not uncommon to see him in long rows, shading along roads and parks and gardens.

FLOWERING

The alder blossoms in February, March and April, small fruit, reduced and compressed ripen in September and October. Collect the leaves when they are still young and somewhat viscous, usually between April and May. Sometimes also reaps the bark, a little before the leaves. The harvested parts are left to dry in the shade at a temperature not exceeding 35-40 grados CelsiusC.

APPLICATIONS

The bark is rich in tannin, which sometimes takes up to 19%, also carries in its fatty acid composition as palmitic acid and stearic acid. As for the leaves, have sugars, alcohols and acids. The bark tannins give it a mild astringent and decongestant effect. From the leaves can be said to have been used as local analgesic action. Also popular is the remedy to heal sore feet alder by excessive walking. In general it is a plant that is indicated in cases of diarrhea, pharyngitis, hemorrhoids, ulcers, leucorrhoea, rheumatism. As is almost always that any remedy is used, you have to keep the necessary precautions with regard to their use, in principle is contraindicated in persons undergoing treatment with any alkaloid or iron salts, because toxic effects may occur.

ADMINISTRATION

Leaves. Directly placed on the soles of the feet, with the viscous substance into contact with skin. It is a home remedy for sore feet.
Leaves crushed. Directly on the breasts of women are said to cure stretch marks.
Decoction for washing. In 1 / 2 l. Boiling water for 10 minutes 15 deg. Bark. The liquid, once hardened, filtered and washed can be used for ulcers, sores, wounds and even hemorrhoids.
Gargling. In 1 l. Boiling water 40 gr. Bark, cooled, strained and sweetened to taste after each gargle are, being able to repeat the operation several times a day. It is very useful in cases of pharyngitis.

SUMMARY

FAMILY: Betulaceae
HABITAT: Edge of streams in the Pyrenees
FLOWERING: February, March and April
PART USED: Leaf and bark
CASTILIAN: Alno
CATALAN: Vern
BASQUE: Altz
GALICIAN: Amineiro

USES

Antirheumatic Moderate, Mild Astringent, Antidiarrheal Leve.