Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rosaceae
• Common Names: Agrimony, Church Steeples, Sticklewort
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, stems, flowers)

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Description

Agrimony is a perennial herb native to Europe, known for its slender spikes of yellow flowers. It has been used in traditional European herbal medicine for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and mild diuretic properties, particularly in treating digestive issues, wounds, and respiratory conditions.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European medicine to treat diarrhea, dysentery, and gastrointestinal inflammation.
• Employed as a gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers.
• Applied externally as a wound-healing poultice.

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Constituents

• Tannins
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils
• Silicic acid
• Coumarins

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Actions

• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antimicrobial
• Mild diuretic
• Tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Agrimony’s astringent properties make it effective in treating diarrhea, colitis, and gastrointestinal inflammation.

2. Respiratory Support:
Used as a gargle or tea, agrimony helps soothe sore throats, coughs, and respiratory infections.

3. Urinary Tract Health:
Its mild diuretic action supports the treatment of urinary tract infections and bladder discomfort.

4. Wound Healing:
Topically applied as a poultice, agrimony promotes the healing of cuts, bruises, and minor wounds.

5. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Traditionally used to stimulate liver function and improve digestion.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried aerial parts per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml of tincture, taken 2-3 times daily.

Gargle:

• Prepare an infusion and use as a gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers.

Poultice:

• Apply mashed fresh leaves directly to wounds or inflamed skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in moderate amounts, but consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Constipation: Prolonged use may exacerbate constipation due to its astringent nature.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional European Medicine: Cooling and drying, agrimony is used to clear heat and dampness while toning tissues.
• Ayurvedic: Balances excess pitta and kapha due to its astringent and cooling properties.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with peppermint and chamomile.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with licorice and thyme.
• For Wound Healing: Combine with calendula and yarrow.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Harvest aerial parts during flowering in late spring or early summer.
• Drying: Dry plant materials in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried material in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

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Modern Research

Studies highlight agrimony’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, supporting its traditional uses for digestive, respiratory, and wound-healing purposes.

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Agrimony remains a valued herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, offering support for gastrointestinal, respiratory, and skin health.