- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe, Asia, Africa (North)
- Traditions
- Folk magic and herbal magic
Europe · Herb · № 230
Potentilla reptans
Herb · Europe
Cinquefoil
Potentilla reptans
The tannin-rich herb was used as a mouthwash and for diarrhoea. A medicinal effect has not been studied.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
The herb as tea or mouthwash.
Use in traditions
The five leaflets were seen as a hand with five fingers; in medieval coats of arms the cinquefoil stands for strength and honour. In English folk magic the herb was carried at lawsuits and when making requests of superiors. In herbal magic associated with eloquence, cunning, money and protection.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
The tannin-rich herb as a mouthwash for inflamed gums, as a gargle and for diarrhoea.
Preparation and amount
The herb or root as a decoction. No dosage is given here.
Folklore and herbal magic
Symbolic meanings from folk use and modern herbal magic. These are handed-down associations, not effects.
Eloquence, cunning, money, protection, sleep, prophetic dreams, purification, love.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)Decoction