Filipendula ulmaria
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Meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) was used as a compress for arthritis or rheumatic joints, for neuralgia, and as an eyewash. In the 1890s, Bayer produced acetyl-salicylate derived from Filipendula ulmaria and named it "aspirin". To explore the characteristics, medicinal uses and prescribing considerations of this herb in more detail, check out the references indicated.[1], [2]
Contents
Characteristics
AKA Spirea ulmaria
- Common Names: Meadowsweet, Queen of the Meadow, Bridewort
- Family: Rosaceae
- Habitat: Filipendula ulmaria is native to Europe and escaped to North America. It grows in damp places on ditches and banks.
- Parts Used: Aerial part
- Constituents: salicylate-rich volatile oil, flavonoids, tannins
- Medicinal Actions: carminative, aromatic, antirheumatic, anti-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory gastrointestinal, antacid, antiemetic, astringent, diuretic, antipyretic, anticoagulant, antimicrobial, mucoprotective
Uses
Historical Uses:
Filipendula ulmaria was used as a compress for arthritis or rheumatic joints, for neuralgia, and as an eyewash. In the 1890s, Bayer produced acetyl-salicylate derived from Filipendula ulmaria and named it "Aspirin".
Medicinal Uses:
- digestive upset, atonic and acid dyspepsia, gastritis, heartburn, hyperacidity, peptic ulcers, nausea, diarrhea in children
- rheumatic and arthritic pain
- gout
Prescribing Considerations
The information provided is intended to augment the treatment from a naturopathic doctor or other trained medical professional. Although most herbs are generally safe, it is recommended that you avoid self-prescribing especially when there is an underlying ongoing medical condition, if you are on any prescription medications or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Formulations and Preparation
Safety
The safety and prescribing considerations for this herb include:[3], [4]
- Generally regarded as safe.
- Side-effects are not generally seen. The herb does not cause stomach bleeding.
- Contraindications: allergic hypersensitivity to salicylates
- Drug-Herb Interactions.[2]
- Warfarin - Flowers may increase risk of bleeding due to heparin-like component (speculative).
References
- ↑ Boon Heather, Smith Michael (2009) 55 Most Common Medicinal Herbs: The Complete Natural Medicine Guide Second Edition Institute of Naturopathic Education and Research, CCNM Toronto.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Godfrey Anthony, Saunders Paul, Barlow Kerry, Gowan Matt (2011) Principles and Practices of Naturopathic Botanical Medicine, Advanced Botanical Medicine. V3 CCNM Press, Toronto.
- ↑ Stargrove Mitchell Bebell, Treasure Jonathan, McKee Dwight L (2008) Herb, Nutrient and Drug Interactions: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Strategies
- ↑ Brinker Francis (1997) Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions: Plus Herbal Adjuncts With Medicines, 4th Edition Eclectic Medical Publications.
