Lady's Mantle Herb Cut
Botanical Name: Alchemilla vulgaris
Common Name:
- English: Lady’s Mantel Herb
- Also, known as: Dew-cup, Our lady’s mantle, Lion’s foot, Bear’s foot, Nine hooks, Frauenmantel, Mariustakkur, Almindelig Lovefod, Pied de leonis, Lion's Claw and Aslanpençesi.
Habitat: Europe
Origin: Turkey
Harvested: Wild or cultivated
Parts Used: The whole herb (above-ground parts).
General Information:
Alchemilla vulgaris, is an herbaceous perennial plant, grow about 18 - 24 inches high, and 18 - 26 inches wide and belongs to the Rosaceae family, which comprise of more than 300 species. The whole plant is clothed with soft hairs. The leaves of Lady’s Mantle are 6-8 inch in diameter and 5-20 inches long, shallow, pleated cups. The soft hairs make water form droplets that roll around on the leaves. These hairs make the leaves feel velvety, not scratchy or unpleasant to touch. The lower, radical leaves, large and handsome, somewhat kidney-shaped in general outline, with their margins cut into mostly nine broad, finely toothed at the edges, from which it has obtained one of its local names, Nine Hooks. Lady’s Mantle flowers are about half inch in diameter, in loose, divided clusters at the end of the freely-branching flower stems, airy masses of tiny, yellow-green flowers that sit above the foliage until they flop down from their own volume and weight, becoming a froth of blooms. The herb is gathered during the summer months when it is in bloom and then dried for later use.
Even though Alchemilla vulgaris is used to treat various health problems, it is known as the ‘woman’s herb’ because most of its benefits target women. During the Middle Ages this herb played an important part in the lives of many women. In England they used to call it “a woman’s best friend”. The rootstock is astringent and edible, and the leaves are eaten by sheep and cattle.
How to use:
Hot Infusion:
The basic method for dried herbs and flower is, take 2-3 tablespoons of dried herb in a cup or teapot. Pour hot water over it and cover it with lid for 10-30 minutes. Hot water is needed to draw out the antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins, flavonoids, and volatile oils from the botanicals. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can sweeten your herbal tea with a bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
- You can make ice cubes or pops by freezing tea in ice trays or pop molds.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
All information on this website is for educational purposes ONLY.
This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
