Organic Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris)

Family: Rosaceae

Common Names: Lion’s Foot, Nine Hooks, Bear’s Foot, Dewcup

Botanical Description: Lady’s Mantle is a perennial herb with soft, rounded, and deeply lobed leaves that have a scalloped edge. The leaves are pale to dark green and have a unique characteristic of holding dew or rainwater in the center, which was historically thought to have magical properties. The plant produces small, yellow-green flowers in loose clusters that bloom from late spring to early summer. Lady’s Mantle grows about 1 to 2 feet tall and spreads through rhizomes, forming a dense, attractive ground cover.

Habitat and Cultivation: Native to Europe and Asia, Lady’s Mantle thrives in cool, temperate climates and is commonly found in meadows, woodland edges, and along roadsides. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. The plant is often cultivated in gardens for its ornamental value and medicinal properties.

Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves and flowers)

Historical and Folklore Uses:

Lady’s Mantle has been used for centuries in European herbal medicine, particularly for its benefits to women’s health. The plant’s name and association with the Virgin Mary in folklore reflect its long-standing use in treating gynecological issues, such as menstrual irregularities and menopausal symptoms. In medieval times, Lady’s Mantle was also believed to have magical properties, with dew collected from its leaves used in alchemy and to enhance the efficacy of other herbal preparations.

Energetics and Taste:

• Energetics: Cooling, drying
• Taste: Bitter, astringent, slightly sweet

Medicinal Actions:

• Astringent: Tightens tissues, making it useful for treating wounds, ulcers, and diarrhea.
• Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation, particularly in the reproductive and digestive systems.
• Emmenagogue: Stimulates menstrual flow and helps regulate the menstrual cycle.
• Antispasmodic: Relieves muscle spasms and menstrual cramps.
• Vulnerary: Promotes wound healing and helps to stop bleeding.
• Antioxidant: Protects cells from oxidative stress and supports overall health.

System Affinities:

• Reproductive System: Lady’s Mantle is best known for its use in treating menstrual disorders, including heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), painful periods (dysmenorrhea), and menopausal symptoms. It is also used to support postpartum healing.
• Digestive System: The herb’s astringent properties make it effective in treating diarrhea, gastroenteritis, and other digestive issues. It helps to tone and tighten the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
• Skin: Lady’s Mantle is used externally to promote wound healing, reduce inflammation, and treat skin conditions such as eczema and minor burns. Its astringent action helps to tighten and protect the skin.
• Urinary System: The plant is sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections and to tone the urinary tract.

Active Compounds:

• Tannins: Provide the astringent properties that help tighten tissues, reduce inflammation, and promote wound healing.
• Flavonoids: Antioxidants that help protect against oxidative stress and support overall health.
• Salicylic Acid: Contributes to the herb’s anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects.
• Phytoestrogens: Plant compounds that mimic the effects of estrogen, which may help balance hormones and alleviate menopausal symptoms.

Uses:

1. Menstrual and Reproductive Health: Lady’s Mantle is widely used to treat a variety of menstrual issues, including heavy bleeding, painful periods, and irregular cycles. It can also help alleviate menopausal symptoms and support postpartum recovery.
2. Digestive Support: The herb is used to treat diarrhea, stomach ulcers, and other digestive issues by toning and protecting the mucous membranes of the digestive tract.
3. Wound Healing: Lady’s Mantle is applied externally to promote the healing of wounds, cuts, and minor burns. Its astringent properties help to stop bleeding and reduce inflammation.
4. Skin Care: The herb is used in skincare preparations to treat conditions like eczema, rashes, and acne. It helps to tighten and protect the skin, promoting overall skin health.
5. Urinary Tract Health: Lady’s Mantle is sometimes used to treat urinary tract infections and to tone and support the health of the urinary system.

Cautions:

• Pregnancy: Lady’s Mantle should be used with caution during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester, as it may stimulate the uterus. It is best to consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Tannin Sensitivity: Due to its high tannin content, prolonged use of Lady’s Mantle may cause stomach irritation or constipation in some individuals. It is advisable to use the herb in moderation.
• Drug Interactions: Lady’s Mantle may interact with certain medications, particularly those that affect blood clotting, due to its astringent properties. Consult a healthcare provider if you are on any medications before using the herb.

Research and Studies:

1. A study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated the anti-inflammatory and astringent effects of Lady’s Mantle, supporting its traditional use in treating menstrual and digestive issues .
2. Research in Phytotherapy Research highlighted the herb’s antioxidant properties, particularly due to its flavonoid content, which helps protect against oxidative stress and supports overall health .
3. Another study in Planta Medica confirmed the wound-healing properties of Lady’s Mantle, validating its use in promoting skin and tissue repair.