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Scurvy Grass (Cochlearia officinalis)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Cruciferae (Brassicaceae)
  • Common Names: Scurvy Grass, Spoonwort
  • Parts Used: Leaves, flowers, seeds

Description

Cochlearia officinalis is a hardy, salt-tolerant plant native to coastal regions of Europe and the Arctic. It was historically used as a remedy for scurvy due to its high vitamin C content. It has a strong, pungent taste similar to mustard and has been traditionally used to stimulate digestion, boost immunity, and support respiratory health.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by sailors and explorers to prevent and treat scurvy due to its vitamin C richness.
  • Traditionally applied as a digestive stimulant to aid sluggish digestion.
  • Employed in European herbal medicine to support respiratory health and clear phlegm.

Constituents

  • Vitamin C
  • Glucosinolates
  • Flavonoids
  • Essential oils
  • Mineral salts

Actions

  • Antiscorbutic (prevents scurvy)
  • Digestive stimulant
  • Expectorant
  • Antimicrobial
  • Diuretic

Medicinal Uses

1. Vitamin C Source and Scurvy Prevention:
Scurvy Grass was historically used as a key remedy for vitamin C deficiency.

2. Digestive Health:
Its pungent and bitter properties stimulate digestive juices, aiding sluggish digestion.

3. Respiratory Support:
Traditionally used to clear mucus and support respiratory conditions such as colds and bronchitis.

4. Circulatory and Immune Support:
Rich in antioxidants, it helps protect against oxidative stress and supports circulation.

5. Diuretic and Detoxification Support:
Stimulates kidney function and promotes elimination of excess fluids.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Fresh Leaf Use:

  • Leaves can be eaten fresh in salads for a natural vitamin C boost.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Thyroid Conditions: Contains goitrogens that may affect thyroid function; use with caution in those with hypothyroidism.
  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally safe in moderate food amounts, but medicinal doses should be used with caution.
  • Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause mild stomach irritation in sensitive individuals.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Herbalism: Warming and stimulating; supports digestion, circulation, and immune function.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Vata, but may aggravate Pitta in excess.

Combinations

  • For Immune Support: Combine with elderberry and echinacea.
  • For Digestion: Combine with ginger and dandelion.
  • For Respiratory Health: Combine with thyme and horehound.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in spring and summer when most potent.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Cochlearia officinalis’s high vitamin C content and its benefits for immune support, digestion, and respiratory health, reinforcing its historical use.

Scurvy Grass remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern medicine, particularly for immune health, digestion, and circulation.