Prunella Vulgaris has been used for centuries on almost every continent in the world. It has numerous medicinal properties, including antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antipyretic, anti-septic, anti-viral, astringent, carminative, diuretic, antioxidant and so much more. Prunella is also edible and can be added to and eaten in salads, soups and stews. In traditional Chinese medicine, “heal all” was associated with liver pathologies.
The Prunella flower itself is thought to resemble a throat. It has been shown to have an affinity for the throat and is effective in treating throat afflictions. It also has a long-standing reputation as a wound-healing herb.
What is Prunella Vulgaris?
Prunella Vulgaris is a low growing perennial with an underground “weed” that sends up a red coloured stem ending in blue-violet flowers. These flowering stems, much loved by bees, are what give prunella its medicinal properties. Prunella grows in sunny, dry and open grasslands.
Prunella Vulgaris Health Benefits
Prunella is used for the effective treatment of sore throat, fever, diarrhea, headache, conjunctivitis, hemorrhoids, heavy menstruation, internal bleeding, nephritis and other kidney pathologies, weaknesses of the liver and the cardiovascular system. Prunella is a strong antibacterial that has been found useful in inhibiting the growth of pseudomonas, Bacillus typhi, E. coli and Mycobacterium tuberculi among others. As an immune tonic, studies are showing promising support using Prunella to help HIV, unhealthy cell growth, and herpes.
Important Information
There are no known side effects, toxicity or contraindications with the use of prunella. It has been shown safe in large doses up to 30 g/day, although oral doses tend to be prescribed at anywhere from 6-15 g/day. Individuals on blood thinners may want to exercise extra caution when also using Prunella, as it also has anti-coagulant properties.
