Folk Medicine
Latin name: Alchemillae herba3
Usable parts: Leaves and flowering herb3
Harvest period: From spring to autumn3
Constituents: Essential oils, bitter substances, salicylic acid, resin, lecithin, oil, phytosterols, saponins, tannins3
Action: Diuretic, digestive, heals wounds, anti-inflammatory, purifies the blood, menstrual regulator3
Application: Enjoyed as a tea, Lady's Mantle is a popular remedy for all kinds of women's ailments. It is renowned for its antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, mostly thanks to its tannin content. In situations requiring prompt medical intervention, it can help with haemorrhaging and stop nosebleeds. The leaves are first chewed to make a poultice before being applied to the bleeding wound. The tannins in the leaves help to stop the bleeding while keeping out germs.9
In the early morning hours, droplets of moisture collect on the tips of the leaves, which come from the plant. Because of its salubrious properties, numerous legends have been spun about this magic liquid and its varied healing powers. When rubbed on the face, it works as an excellent rejuvenating agent.3
Risk of misidentification: None
Tips for Domestic Cultivation
Lady's mantle thrives in unfertilised soil. All that is needed is a little patience and the lady's mantle will usually take root all by itself in a home garden environment.
Home Use / Recipe Idea
Lady's mantle cream cheese3
Blend a handful of young, finely chopped lady's mantle leaves into some cream cheese. Season with a little salt, pepper, and mustard to taste and mix. The seasoned spread can be eaten in a delicious sandwich or used as a topping on summer salads.
Experiment with various edible wild herbs.
3 “Die Kräuter in meinem Garten” by Siegrid Hirsch & Felix Grünberger; 22nd Edition; Freya Verlag Gmbh
9 “Erste Hilfe mit frischen Wildpflanzen” by Coco Burckhardt; 2016, Eugen Ulmer KG
10 “Was blüht denn da?” by Margot Spohn, 2015, Franckh-Kosmos Verlags-GmbH & co. KG