Herbarium of the Ancients — Detailed NotebookFR · EN
Scarlet Pimpernel
Lysimachia arvensis
Read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment, or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Toxic plant for internal use: it contains saponins and irritant compounds that can cause digestive disorders, dizziness, and mucous membrane irritation. Absolutely not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as young children, due to its toxicity. Never consume the plant raw or in internal preparations without the advice of a qualified healthcare professional. For external use on damaged or sensitive skin, perform a preliminary test and discontinue if irritation occurs.
Poultice — Fresh aerial parts (leaves and stems)
Traditional poultice for the skin
Fresh aerial parts are crushed to obtain a paste, then applied directly to the affected area using a clean compress. The application is renewed once or twice a day, monitoring for any skin reaction. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
External decoction — Dried whole plant
Decoction for external washing
A small amount of dried plant is brought to a boil in water, then left to infuse off the heat before being filtered. The cooled liquid is used only for external use, as a wash or compress, never as a beverage. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Sourcing the plant
Scarlet Pimpernel grows spontaneously in gardens, cultivated fields, and wastelands throughout Europe; it is rarely sold in herbalist shops due to its toxicity and limited current use.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
Harvesting of aerial parts is traditionally done in spring and summer, during flowering, in dry weather.
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