Sea Holly (Eryngium maritimum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Apiaceae
• Common Names: Sea Holly, Sea Eryngo
• Parts Used: Root, leaves, seeds

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Description

Eryngium maritimum is a coastal perennial plant found along sandy shorelines and dunes of Europe. Its spiky, blue-green foliage and pale violet flowers make it distinct. Traditionally, it has been valued for its diuretic, expectorant, and digestive tonic properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European folk medicine as a diuretic and kidney tonic.
• Employed as an expectorant for respiratory conditions such as coughs and bronchitis.
• Historically considered an aphrodisiac and restorative tonic.
• Used in digestive ailments for bloating and sluggish digestion.

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Constituents

• Saponins
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils
• Tannins
• Phenolic acids

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Actions

• Diuretic
• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Digestive stimulant
• Antispasmodic
• Tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Kidney and Urinary Health:
Traditionally used to support kidney function, reduce fluid retention, and promote urinary tract health.

2. Respiratory Support:
Helps expel mucus, ease coughs, and alleviate bronchial congestion.

3. Digestive Health:
Stimulates digestion, relieves bloating, and supports liver function.

4. Anti-inflammatory and Wound Healing:
Applied topically for skin inflammation, wounds, and minor burns.

5. General Tonic and Restorative:
Historically used as a vitality-enhancing herb, particularly for convalescence.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried root or leaves per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves or roots applied to wounds and inflammatory skin conditions.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Kidney Disorders: Avoid excessive use if prone to kidney irritation.
• Allergies: Use cautiously if allergic to plants in the Apiaceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports the kidneys, lungs, and digestive system.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used as a tonic for vitality and respiratory health.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Health: Combine with mullein and thyme.
• For Urinary Tract Support: Combine with uva-ursi and dandelion leaf.
• For Digestive Aid: Combine with fennel and ginger.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Roots are collected in autumn, while leaves and seeds are harvested in summer.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Limited studies suggest Eryngium maritimum may have diuretic and expectorant properties, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Sea Holly remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory health, urinary support, and digestive stimulation.