© Didier Descouens · CC BY-SA 4.0 · Commons
Geum urbanum
Echte Nelkenwurz · (Geum urbanum)
Rose family (Rosaceae)
Description
Geum urbanum, also known as wood avens, herb Bennet, colewort, clove root and St. Benedict's herb, is a perennial plant in the rose family (Rosaceae), which grows in shady places in the temperate regions of Eurasia and North America.
- TeaRootInternalTraditional use
Root infusion or decoction of dried wood avens rhizomes for diarrhoea, stomach cramps and digestive disorders. Classical folk-medicinal indication; tannins (approx. 9% according to PFAF) exert an astringent effect in the gut.
Preparation & dosage
Bring 2–4 g of dried, chopped root with 250 ml cold water to a brief boil and steep 15 minutes; strain. Up to 3 cups daily, freshly prepared (volatile eugenol is lost on prolonged storage).
- Dry amount
- 2–4 g
- Doses per day
- 3×
- GargleRootExternalTraditional use
Cooled root decoction as mouthwash and gargle for dental and gum problems, aphthous ulcers, throat irritation and halitosis. The combination of tannins and eugenol acts antiseptic and astringent.
Preparation & dosage
Prepare decoction as for tea; cool to body temperature and rinse or gargle several times daily.
- Dry amount
- 3–5 g
- CompressRootExternalFolk medicine
Compresses soaked in root decoction for haemorrhoids, eczema and poorly healing wounds. Astringent gallotannins and ellagitannins constrict tissue and inhibit microorganisms.
- SpiceRootInternalFolk medicine
Fresh root used as a spice – the clove-like eugenol aroma was historically popular as a beer flavouring (e.g. Augsburg ale). Also recorded as a seasoning for soups and broths.
- TeaRootInternalFolk medicine
Root infusion in folk medicine as a febrifuge and diaphoretic for infectious diseases. PFAF documents antipyretic and diaphoretic properties of the drug.
- BathRootExternalFolk medicine
Foot baths with strong root decoction recorded in folk medicine for frostbite and chilblains. PFAF explicitly mentions this application.