Common Butterwort (Pinguicula vulgaris)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lentibulariaceae
• Common Names: Common Butterwort, Bog Violet, Marsh Violet
• Parts Used: Leaves

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Description

Pinguicula vulgaris, commonly known as Common Butterwort, is a carnivorous plant found in nutrient-poor wetlands, bogs, and alpine meadows across Europe and North America. It is traditionally used for its mucilage-rich leaves, which have soothing, expectorant, and antimicrobial properties. Butterwort has been employed in herbal medicine to treat respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and skin infections.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine for coughs, colds, and respiratory congestion.
• Applied externally to wounds and ulcers to promote healing.
• Traditionally used to aid digestion and relieve stomach irritation.
• Known for its role in cheesemaking in Scandinavian countries due to its ability to curdle milk.

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Constituents

• Mucilage
• Flavonoids
• Caffeic acid derivatives
• Enzymes (proteolytic)
• Organic acids

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Antitussive (Cough suppressant)
• Antimicrobial
• Demulcent (Soothing to mucous membranes)
• Digestive aid

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Butterwort is used to relieve coughs, bronchitis, and throat irritation due to its expectorant and soothing properties.

2. Digestive Soothing:
Traditionally consumed to ease stomach discomfort, indigestion, and mild gastritis.

3. Antimicrobial Properties:
Applied externally for minor wounds, ulcers, and skin infections.

4. Dairy Processing Aid:
Historically used to curdle milk in cheesemaking, particularly in Scandinavian traditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Leaves):

• 1 tsp of dried leaves per cup of hot water. Steep for 10 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to wounds and skin irritations.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience sensitivity when applied topically.
• Carnivorous Plant Consideration: Contains enzymes that break down proteins; avoid direct contact with sensitive mucous membranes in high doses.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and soothing; supports respiratory and digestive health.
• Scandinavian Folk Medicine: Used for dairy processing and wound healing.
• Traditional European Medicine: Applied as a cough remedy and external antimicrobial.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Support: Combine with thyme and licorice root.
• For Digestive Health: Combine with marshmallow root and chamomile.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves are collected in summer and dried for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Pinguicula vulgaris’s antimicrobial, expectorant, and digestive-soothing properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Common Butterwort remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory and digestive support.