Filipendula ulmaria

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Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-18 (EDT)

See Also Botanical Monographs

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]

Characteristics

AKA Spirea ulmaria

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:

  • 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

  • Infusion - 1-2 tsp/cup three times daily
  • Tincture - 2-4mL (1:5, 40%) three times daily

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

  1. 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. 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.
  3. Stargrove Mitchell Bebell, Treasure Jonathan, McKee Dwight L (2008) Herb, Nutrient and Drug Interactions: Clinical Implications and Therapeutic Strategies
  4. Brinker Francis (1997) Herbal Contraindications and Drug Interactions: Plus Herbal Adjuncts With Medicines, 4th Edition Eclectic Medical Publications.