|
 Prunella vulgaris (Labiatae)
SELF HEAL, HEAL ALL, HEART OF THE EARTH
Self heal is both a name and a
description for this long-used herb. It is still used by herbalists as a
wound healer and to stop bleeding, and for conjunctivitis, high blood
pressure, abscesses and swelling in Chinese medicine.
In the middle ages,
self heal was considered one of the best wound healing remedies. And, the herbalist Gerard said that,
together with its relative, bugle (Ajuga reptans), "in all the world there are not two better wound herbs,
as has often been proved". Native to Europe, it is now naturalized in many regions.
Self heal is a perennial with a creeping rhizome, square stems,
and oblong leaves that have sharply toothed margins and a shiny dark-green surface.
Its flowers are violet, grow in tight spikes, and appear from midsummer.
PARTS USED
Whole herb.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Triterpenes derived from
ursolic, betulinic, and oleanolic acid; tannins.
ACTIONS
Astringent; promotes wound healing.
MEDICINAL USE
Used as a styptic to stop bleeding from external wounds and also given internally for bleeding,
ulcers, and sore throats. Chinese medicine prescribes it for high blood pressure, conjunctivitis,
oedema (swelling with water retention), abscesses, and swellings.
PREPARATIONS
Fresh herb, infusion, poultice,
tincture.
|
