Agrimony

Agrimoniae eupatoria

Agrimony is a perennial herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It is known for its antiseptic qualities and has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including wounds, infections, and skin problems. Agrimony is also a good source of vitamins and minerals and has been shown to boost the immune system and promote overall health. Some cultures call this the ‘Green Antibiotic’. It must be consumed as a short-term treatment, for a maximum of 4-6 weeks, then take a break of c. 4 weeks.

Alternative names

Churchsteeples | Cocklebur | Stickwort | Liverwort | Common Agrimony | Cockeburr | Sticklewort | Herbe de Saint-Guillaume | Acrimony | Harvest Lice | Burr Marigold | Garclive | Fairy’s Wand

Benefits

Agrimony has a wide range of benefits, including:

Digestive Support: Agrimony has carminative properties, making it helpful in alleviating digestive issues like bloating, gas, and indigestion. It aids in promoting healthy digestion and reducing gastrointestinal discomfort. Also for treating IBS.

Anti-inflammatory Effects: Agrimony contains compounds with potential anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation in the body and provide relief from certain inflammatory conditions. 

Astringent Properties: Agrimony is known for its astringent effects, which can help tone and tighten tissues. It is beneficial for mild skin conditions and may aid in oral health by promoting gum health and reducing inflammation. 

Mild Diuretic: Agrimony acts as a mild diuretic, supporting the elimination of excess water and waste from the body, aiding in detoxification.

Respiratory Health: Agrimony has been used traditionally to soothe the respiratory tract and provide relief from mild respiratory discomforts such as coughs and throat irritations.

Wound Healing: External applications of agrimony have been used to aid in wound healing and promote the recovery of minor skin injuries. 

Calming and Relaxing: Agrimony is believed to have calming properties, which may help reduce stress and anxiety when consumed in moderate amounts.

Liver Health: Some traditional practices suggest that agrimony may support liver health and function.

Urinary Tract Health: Agrimony is used traditionally to support urinary tract health and help relieve mild urinary discomfort.

Flavouring Agent: Agrimony has a mild and pleasant taste, making it a suitable addition to herbal teas and infusions for both its health benefits and flavour.

Harmonising effect: at BODY-SOUL-SPIRIT level – its energy is cooling, harmonising in wound healing, diuretic and astringent.

Agrimony is generally safe to use when taken in moderation. However, it is important to note that it can interact with certain medications, so it is important to talk to your doctor before taking it.

Botanical Description

Agrimony (Agrimoniae eupatoria) is a perennial herb that grows up to 1.5 metres tall. It has a long, erect stem with alternate, compound leaves. The leaves are divided into three leaflets, each of which is further divided into several smaller leaflets. The flowers are yellow and are borne in spikes at the top of the stem. The fruit is a small, dry achene.

It is found in a variety of habitats, including meadows, woodlands, and roadsides. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America.

Scientific/Medical

Harvesting

Agrimony is best harvested in the spring or autumn when the plant is in full bloom. The upper 20-30 cm part of the flower-leaf shoot should be collected.

Agrimony can be used fresh or dried. Fresh agrimony can be added to salads, soups, and stews. Dried agrimony can be made into a tea or used in tinctures and herbal extracts.

Some tips for harvesting agrimony:

• Harvest the plant in the morning, when the dew is still on the leaves. This will help to preserve the plant’s essential oils.
• Cut the stems of the plant just above a node. This will help the plant to regrow.
• Avoid harvesting plants that are growing in areas that have been sprayed with pesticides or herbicides.
• Dry the herbs in a cool, dark place. Do not expose the herbs to direct sunlight or heat, as this will damage the essential oils.
• Store the herbs in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

Botanical Information

Mythology/Folklore

In Greek mythology, agrimony was associated with the goddess Artemis. It was said that Artemis used the plant to heal wounds and protect her followers from harm. Agrimony was also associated with the Celtic goddess Brigid. Brigid was a goddess of healing, poetry, and fire. She was said to have taught the use of agrimony to humans.

In mediaeval Europe, agrimony was used as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including wounds, infections, kidney stones, and digestive problems. It was also used as a diuretic and a blood purifier. Agrimony was also believed to be a powerful aphrodisiac.

In the 19th century, agrimony was used as a treatment for cholera and other infectious diseases. It was also used as a tonic to improve overall health.

Today, agrimony is still used in folk medicine, but it is not as widely used as it once was. It is still used as a treatment for a variety of ailments, including wounds, infections, and digestive problems. Agrimony is also still used as a diuretic and a blood purifier.

Here are some of the mythological and folk beliefs associated with agrimony:

• Agrimony was believed to be a powerful protection against evil spirits.
• It was believed that agrimony could heal wounds and protect people from harm.
• Agrimony was believed to be a fertility herb.
• It was believed that agrimony could help to promote good luck and fortune.
• Agrimony was believed to be a powerful aphrodisiac.

Use

Consume before meals, preferably without sweeteners.

Babies – only recommended externally. It can be given diluted to children from the age of 6 (one teaspoon of tea herb to 2.5 dl of water).

Possible Side Effects

Agrimony is generally safe when used in moderation. However, it can cause some side effects in some people, including:

• Stomach upset
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Skin rash
• Allergic reaction

It is important to talk to your doctor before taking agrimony, especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Agrimony can interact with certain medications, so it is important to let your doctor know if you are taking any other medications before taking agrimony.

It is also important to note that agrimony can make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. If you take agrimony, it is important to wear sunscreen and protective clothing when you are outdoors.

Associated Products

TBC