Purple loosestrife

Lythrum salicaria

Traditionally attributed effects: cleansing, antibiotic, antispasmodic, diuretic, induces sweating, tonic, soothing; for dysentery and bacterial diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's), strengthens kidneys and bladder, for the eyes.

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

Decoction: 3 tsp per 350 ml, 8–10 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; eyewash (3 tsp per half litre, 1–4 hours); tincture 1–2 dropperfuls 1–3 times a day.

Use in traditions

In European folk medicine the tannin-rich plant was a remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery, and in the 19th century it was used during epidemics. In North America, where it was introduced as an ornamental, it has become a highly invasive species in wetlands.

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

Cleansing, antibiotic, antispasmodic, diuretic, induces sweating, tonic, soothing; for dysentery and bacterial diarrhoea, inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn's), strengthens kidneys and bladder, for the eyes.

Preparation and amount

Decoction: 3 tsp per 350 ml, 8–10 min covered, 1–3 cups a day; eyewash (3 tsp per half litre, 1–4 hours); tincture 1–2 dropperfuls 1–3 times a day.

Ways to prepare herbs: Decoction Tincture

Sources

en.wikipedia.org

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