Loosestrife is a perennial plant whose purplish-pink flowers form an elongated spike. It belongs to the botanical family Lythraceae and grows mainly near streams and waterways. Its scientific name is Lythrum salicaria. It also responds to other vernacular names such as colic grass, pink plume or red stream tea. For several centuries, this plant has been attributed many properties that are involved in the treatment of various ailments. In terms of composition, it contains tannins, phenolic groups, triterpenes and resins.
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Therapeutic indications
In the past, loosestrife was used as part of treatment of eye conditions. In modern herbal medicine, colic grass helps to combat various disorders affecting the digestive tract. It allows, among other things, to treat diarrhea and ulcerative inflammation of the intestines, especially the colon. In addition, it helps to treat infections and genitourinary disturbances. There are inflammations of the vaginal mucous membranes, metrorrhagia or hematuria (presence of blood in the urine).
In addition, this plant improves the situation in the following situations:
- Circulatory disorders: hemorrhoids, varicose veins and feeling of heavy legs
- Cough, sore throat and mouth ailments
- Skin issues: wounds, eczema, erythema and impetigo
- Abundant bleeding from the nose or during menstruation
Dosage forms
For pharmaceutical preparations, herbalists mainly exploit the virtues of the flowering tops and aerial parts of loosestrife. On the market, these extracts are then presented in the form of infusion, powder, mother tincture, hydrosol and capsule.
Instructions for use and dosage
To take advantage of the virtues of loosestrife, it is essential to respect the prescribed doses. Note that the dosage varies according to the desired result and also the form used.
Infusion
In drugstores or on herbalist sites, you can find dried bulk plants intended for the preparation of an herbal tea or a decoction.
To prepare an herbal tea, infuse 2 to 3 g of dry extracts in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Filter and consume up to 3 cups a day.
For a decoction, boil a mixture of 30 to 40 g of plant and 1 liter of water. Leave to infuse for 15 minutes then filter. After cooling, use the preparation as a lotion or as a gargle.
Mother tincture
Take 15 drops to dilute in water, twice a day.
Hydrosol
Dilute 1 tablespoon of solution in 1.5 liters of water, to drink throughout the day.
capsule
In 2 to 3 times a day, swallow 2 capsules with a large glass of drink.
Usage precautions
I’use of loosestrife is contraindicated for children under 12 and women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It should also be noted that nothing replaces a diagnosis and a medical prescription. Before each cure, it is therefore important to seek the advice of a health professional.
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