Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria)
Overview
Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is a perennial reaching about 5 ft (1.5 m), with toothed leaves and sweetly scented clusters of creamy-white flowers. Known historically as a strewing herb, meadowsweet contains salicylates akin to aspirin, which reduce pain and inflammation without causing the gastric side effects commonly attributed to aspirin.
Traditional uses & properties
Analgesic & Anti-Inflammatory: The salicylates relieve pain in arthritic and rheumatic conditions but do not thin the blood like aspirin. Antacid & Stomachic: Helps settle acid indigestion, reflux, and mild gastric issues. Mildly Diuretic: Supports kidneys in clearing acid byproducts, easing joint inflammation. Skin & Tissue Support: Contains silica beneficial for connective tissues, aiding skin and joint health.
Preparations & dosage
1,000–2,000 mg up to 3 times daily
4–8 ounces 1–4 times daily
Fresh leaf (1:2, 95% alcohol); dried leaf (1:5, 50% alcohol); 1–5 ml (0.2–1 tsp.) 1–4 times daily
Safety & precautions
Children with Fevers: Some herbalists advise against using meadowsweet in children with febrile illnesses (similar caution as with aspirin). Large Doses: Excess can cause nausea or vomiting. Allergy: Avoid if allergic to aspirin (salicylates).
Habitat
Native to Europe, meadowsweet thrives in damp places, ditches, and along streams. It can self-sow freely or be propagated by root division in autumn or spring. Leaves and flowering tops are collected in summer once the blossoms open.
Traditionally used for
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