Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed RecordFR · EN

Kidney Vetch

Anthyllis vulneraria
Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace advice from a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
This record is for historical and informational purposes; it does not replace medical advice. Reserved for external use on minor superficial wounds; never apply to deep, infected, or abnormally healing wounds. As a precaution, avoid prolonged use or ingestion in pregnant or breastfeeding women, due to insufficient data. Perform a patch test on a small area of skin before broader application, particularly if prone to allergies.
Compress / lotion — Flowers and flowering tops

Soothing skin compress

Infuse a handful of dried flowers in boiling water for about ten minutes, allow to cool, then soak a clean compress to apply to the affected area. Repeat two to three times daily as needed. One tablespoon of dried flowers per 250 ml of water.

Poultice — Fresh or dried and rehydrated flowers

Traditional shepherd's poultice

Lightly crush fresh flowers, or rehydrate dried flowers in a little warm water, then apply the resulting paste directly to the skin, secured with a clean cloth. This simple practice was used occasionally on minor superficial wounds. Dosage should be verified with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Infusion — Flowering tops

Gentle support tisane

Infuse dried flowers for a few minutes in hot water and drink while warm, for occasional use. If in doubt about the suitability of this internal use, it is best to consult a healthcare professional. Dosage should be verified with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.

Where to find it

Sourcing the plant

It can still be found growing wild in limestone meadows, sunny banks, and rocky areas of Europe; it is also available dried from certain herbalists specializing in wild plants.

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