|
Family
Polygonaceae
Also Called
Heart's Ease, Lady's Thumb
Description
Perrenial herbaceous plant 15.2-30.4cm (6-24in) tall with red stem. Leaves are lance-shaped. Leaf nodes are covered in papery, fringed sheaths. Flowers are pinkish-purple and arranged in elongated clusters. Flowers are present June through October.
Location
Found in waste places, this invasive alien is native to Europe. Ranges throughout North America.
Uses and Parts Used
Leaves
Leaf Tea used for heart ailments, stomachaches, inflammation, sore throat, and as a diuretic. Also used against kidney stones. Leaf tea also used as a foot soak for pain in legs and feet.
Whole Plant
Whole plant poultice used for general pain, poison ivy rash, and insect repellent.
Notes
Juice from this plant may cause dermatitis.
|
