Lady's Mantle Herb Profile
Also known as
Alchemilla vulgaris and Alchemilla xanthochlora, Dewcup, Hairy Mantle, Lion's foot, Bear's foot, and Nine Hooks.
Introduction
Lady's mantle is a perennial herb found in North America, Europe, and Asia. It has been referenced in many medicinal and magical circles since the middle ages. Its first appearance in a botanical tome was in Jerome Bock's "History of Plants" in 1532. Its scientific name Alchemilla is a derivative of the Arab work Alkemelych, or alchemy, so called for the plant's magical healing potency. Folklore concerning Lady's Mantle seems to focus on the dew that is gathered on the leaves at the center of its furrowed leaves, which is said to be a key ingredient in several alchemical formulas. The dew was also said to be collected and used as a beauty lotion. Lady's Mantle was first associated with the worship of the Earth Mother, but as Christianity spread, and like many pagan symbols before it, it was absorbed and eventually became associated with the Virgin Mary. Although its leaves bear a striking resemblance to cilantro, lady's mantle is in the rose family.
Constituents
Tannins and flavonoids, chiefly quercetin.
Parts Used
The above-ground parts of the plant, dried.
Typical Preparations
Teas, extracts and seldom found encapsulated.
Summary
The most common use of lady's mantle in ancient times was to treat sudden infections of the mouth and throat. Cuts, scrapes, and burns were bathed in warm teas of lady's mantle to prevent infection. Lady's mantle tea has also been used to treat heavy menstruation, menstrual cramps, and disagreeable symptoms of menopause. Some modern herbalists recommend lady's mantle as a treatment for diabetes; it may help prevent circulatory problems in diabetics. It has also been used as a green dye for wool for centuries.
Precautions
None.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
