Meadowsweet, or filipendula ulmaria, from the
rosaceae plant family, is one of the best
herbal digestive remedies available, though I have not personally tried it. It acts
holistically, soothing and protecting the
mucous membranes of the
digestive tract, reducing excess acidity and easing
nausea. It is used in the treatment of
heartburn,
hyperacidity, and
gastric and
peptic ulceration. Its gentle
astringency is useful in treating
diarrhea in children. The presence of
aspirin-like chemicals explains Meadowsweet's action in reducing fever and relieving the pain of
rheumatism in muscles and joints.
The aerial parts of the plant are used
medicinally; the fully opened flowers and leaves should be picked at the time of flowering and left to dry at a temperature not exceeding 40 degrees
celsius.
Preparation and Dosage:
- Taken as a tea, pour a cup of boiling water onto 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day or as needed.
- As a tincture, 1-4 ml of the tincture should be taken three times a day.
Constituents: Essential oil, and salicylic acid compounds called
spiraeine and
gaultherin;
salicylic acid,
tannin,
citric acid.
Actions: Anti-rheumatic, anti-inflammatory, stomachic, anti-
emetic,
asringent,
aromatic.