Agrimonia gryposepala
- Origin
- North America
- Part used
- See detailed notebook
- Tradition
- Traditional ethnobotany
An American cousin of European agrimony, Agrimonia gryposepala grows at the edge of woods and along paths in North America. Indigenous peoples and settler herbalists credited it with astringent properties close to those of its Old World relative, particularly for soothing the throat and minor wounds.
Traditional uses
Traditional digestive support
An infusion of the aerial parts was traditionally drunk to ease mild digestive discomfort and support sluggish transit.
A throat gargle
As a gargle, the decoction was traditionally used to relieve throat irritation and mild mouth inflammation.
Care for minor wounds
Applied as a compress, the plant was used to cleanse and tighten tissue for minor cuts or superficial scrapes.
A traditional astringent tonic
Traditional herbalists credited it with general tonic and astringent properties, used occasionally to tighten tissue.
Before you use it
As its use is less well documented than that of European agrimony, it is best to seek the advice of a health professional or an experienced herbalist before use. The astringent properties can worsen existing constipation or interfere with the absorption of medications taken at the same time. Avoid in pregnant or breastfeeding women, for lack of sufficient data. Do not use for prolonged periods without advice, particularly in people on regular medication.
The detailed notebook
- Prepared as a paste or decoction
- Traditional duration of use
- Known contraindications
- Related species and their uses
Where to find it
Partner herbalists — available with the detailed notebook.
Sources
PFAF