Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Rosaceae
• Common Names: Wild Strawberry, Woodland Strawberry, Alpine Strawberry
• Parts Used: Leaves, roots, fruit

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Description

Fragaria vesca is a small, perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe, Asia, and North America. It thrives in woodland environments and produces small, sweet, red berries. Traditionally, its leaves, roots, and fruits have been used for their astringent, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in European herbal medicine for digestive and urinary health.
• Traditionally employed as a mild astringent for diarrhea and intestinal discomfort.
• Applied as a tonic for skin conditions and oral health.
• Leaves and roots used as a tea for kidney support and detoxification.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Vitamin C
• Antioxidants
• Volatile oils
• Mineral salts (iron, calcium, potassium)

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Actions

• Astringent
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diuretic
• Tonic
• Antioxidant
• Digestive aid

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Health:
Wild strawberry leaves are traditionally used as a mild astringent to help with diarrhea, bloating, and digestive discomfort.

2. Urinary and Kidney Support:
The leaves and roots act as a gentle diuretic, promoting kidney health and detoxification.

3. Anti-Inflammatory and Skin Health:
The high tannin content makes wild strawberry useful for soothing inflamed skin, sunburns, and minor wounds.

4. Oral Health:
Tea made from the leaves has been used as a mouth rinse to strengthen gums and reduce oral inflammation.

5. Cardiovascular and Antioxidant Support:
Rich in flavonoids and vitamin C, wild strawberries help support circulation and overall heart health.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

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

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to minor skin irritations and burns.

Edible Use:

• Fresh or dried berries consumed for general health and nutrition.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally considered safe in food amounts but should be used with caution in medicinal doses.
• Allergies: Individuals allergic to strawberries or plants in the Rosaceae family should avoid use.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Excessive consumption may cause mild digestive upset in some individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports digestion, skin health, and urinary function.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Pitta and Kapha, but excessive use may aggravate Vata.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used as a gentle tonic for the digestive and urinary systems.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with chamomile and fennel.
• For Urinary Support: Combine with nettle and dandelion.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and roots are best collected in spring or early summer before fruiting.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried leaves and roots in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Fragaria vesca’s antioxidant, diuretic, and astringent properties, supporting its traditional uses for digestion, urinary health, and skin care.

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Wild Strawberry remains a valuable plant in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestive health, skin support, and urinary function.