- Region
- Europe
- Origin
- Europe, Asia (west)
- Other names
- Meerjarige ganzerik
- Traditions
- Western herbal medicine
Europe · Herb · № 328
Potentilla erecta
Herb · Europe
Tormentil
Potentilla erecta
Traditionally attributed effects: astringent, especially for the intestinal wall.
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
Root.
Use in traditions
Tormentil is one of the most tannin-rich native plants; the rhizome turns red when cut. The name comes from the Latin tormina, stomach cramps, against which it was used. On the Faroe Islands and in Scotland the root was used to tan leather.
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.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Astringent, especially for the intestinal wall.
Preparation and amount
Root.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Astringent, tonic, stops bleeding, strengthens the nerves, calming; for acute diarrhoea and discharges, curbs bleeding (menstruation, blood in the stool), anti-inflammatory, opens the sinuses, relieves stomach and intestinal cramps.
Preparation and amount
Decoction: 1–2 tsp per cup, 15 min covered, 1–3 cups a day (for bleeding 180 ml every 20 min); powder 1–2 tsp in hot water or externally; tincture 5–30 drops 3 times a day; nasal spray/nasal rinse.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- DecoctionTincturePowder and kitchen