Heather

Calluna vulgaris

The flowering herb was drunk as tea for bladder complaints and sleeplessness. Heather honey is a prized, jelly-like honey. 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.

Cautions by tradition (1)

Western herbalism: Little studied.

Preparation

Flowering tops as tea; flowers in beer or honey.

Use in traditions

In Scotland and Ireland heather provided brooms, thatch and mattresses; heather ale was brewed from the flowers. White heather was considered lucky. The purple heathlands of the Veluwe and the Scottish Highlands are cultural landscapes created by grazing. In herbal magic associated with protection, rain and luck.

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

Tea of the flowering tops for bladder complaints, sleeplessness and rheumatism; heather honey for coughs.

Preparation and amount

Flowering tops as tea. No dosage is given here.

Caution: Little studied.

Ways to prepare herbs: Tea (infusion)Syrup, honey and oxymel

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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