Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Other Names

• Cocklebur
• Liverwort
• Hsien-ho-tsao

Properties and Benefits

• Analgesics - Relieves pain.
  

• Anti-inflammatory - Reduces inflammation.
  

• Astringent - Contract or shrink skin tissue or mucus membranes. Dries and reduces discharge.
  

• Hemostatic - An agent that checks bleeding.
  

Symptoms Relieved

Cystitis:
Infection and inflammation of the urinary tract caused by bacteria and marked by painful, burning urination, increased urge and frequency, cramps, backache, fever.

Diarrhea:
Frequent intestinal evacuations with runny stools.

Agrimony helps to dry and reduce discharge.

Indigestion:
Inability or difficulty in digesting food. Agrimony stimulates digestive secretions.

Skin irritations:
Skin & mucus membrane irritations
Agrimony releives mild skin inflammation.

Sore Throat:
Throat pain due to inflammation of the throat and pharynx. Use Agrimony as a gargle for sore throats.



Parts of the Plant Used

• Above ground portion

Methods and Usage

Externally:
Ointments, bath additives.
Agrimony may be used for mild skin inflammation and to shrink bleeding hemorrhoids.

Infusion / Tea:
Bring the water to a boil, add the herbs and remove from heat. Allow to steep 5 to 15 minutes. Strain and drink. By heating gently the violatile oils are preserved. This method is recommended for lighter, more delicate leaves and flowers. An infusion is how you make your average 'cup of tea' with a tea bag.

Tincture:
Tinctures provide a concentrated extract of the herb that can be stored for a long time. The base is usually alcohol, but you can find glycerin or vinegar based tinctures. Tinctures are useful when you have an acute ailment, the taste of the herb is bitter or if the herb is to be taken over a long period of time. Note: the taste of bitter herbs on the taste buds is often what will trigger the body's response.


Types of Energies

Bitter:
Supports digestion and liver function. Cleanses the blood. Yin, cool, clearing, detoxifying, antibiotic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiparasitical.

Warm:
Warms the body. Yang.