Agrimony Herb Profile

Also known as

Agrimonia eupatoria L. and/or Agrimonia procera, common agrimony, church steeples, cocklebur, philantopos, and sticklewort.

Introduction

Agrimony is an herb in the rose family found near hedges and fences throughout England. Bearing yellow flowers with egg-shaped petals on spikes emanating from hairy stems, agrimony exudes a distinctive, pleasant scent that is often compared to apricots but isn't as sweet. During the Elizabethan period herbalists began referring to the plant as philanthropos, perhaps because of its beneficent properties as a medicine, or perhaps because its seeds stick to the clothing of passers by, giving them the "gift" of next year's plants.

Constituents

Tannins and flavonoids. A volatile essential oil can be distilled from the stem.

Parts Used

Dried, above-ground parts of the plant, harvested shortly before or during summer flowering.

Typical Preparations

Herb powder in slurry or decoction, herbal tea, or essential oil.

Summary

Precautions

There are no contraindications for use of up to three grams per day. Taking more than this amount for treating sore throat could aggravate existing constipation.