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Sundew (Drosera rotundifolia)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Droseraceae
  • Common Names: Sundew, Round-leaved Sundew
  • Parts Used: Whole aerial plant (leaves, stems, flowers)

Description

Drosera rotundifolia is a small carnivorous plant native to bogs, wetlands, and damp meadows in North America, Europe, and Asia. Its round, dew-covered leaves capture insects for nutrients, making it unique in the plant kingdom. Traditionally, sundew has been valued for its antispasmodic and expectorant properties, particularly for respiratory conditions such as coughs, bronchitis, and asthma.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in European herbal medicine since the Renaissance for treating respiratory ailments.
  • Employed in Traditional Western Herbalism as an antispasmodic for coughs and throat irritation.
  • Historically valued as a remedy for whooping cough and tuberculosis.

Constituents

  • Naphthoquinones (plumbagin, droserone)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Mucilage
  • Organic acids

Actions

  • Antispasmodic
  • Expectorant
  • Antitussive (cough suppressant)
  • Antimicrobial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Bronchodilator

Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used to relieve persistent, dry, and spasmodic coughs, including those from bronchitis and whooping cough.

2. Asthma and Bronchial Support:
May help reduce airway constriction and ease breathing difficulties.

3. Sore Throat and Hoarseness:
Used for throat irritation, particularly in singers and public speakers.

4. Antimicrobial Properties:
Historically applied for infections of the respiratory tract and mild fevers.

5. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Has been used for inflammatory conditions such as rheumatism.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 1-3 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Syrup:

  • Traditionally prepared with honey to soothe coughs and throat irritation.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
  • Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May cause mild irritation in some individuals.
  • Overuse: High doses may lead to digestive upset or irritation.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; beneficial for dry, irritated respiratory conditions.
  • Traditional European Medicine: Used to calm spasms and ease persistent coughs.
  • Ayurveda: Balancing for Vata and Pitta, but may increase Kapha in excess.

Combinations

  • For Coughs and Bronchitis: Combine with licorice and thyme.
  • For Asthma Support: Combine with lobelia and grindelia.
  • For Sore Throat and Hoarseness: Combine with marshmallow root and sage.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Collected in summer when the plant is in full bloom.
  • Drying: Air dry carefully in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Drosera rotundifolia’s antispasmodic and antimicrobial properties, supporting its traditional use for respiratory health.

Sundew remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern medicine, particularly for respiratory conditions, cough suppression, and throat irritation.