Agrimony
Animation: Carolin Nonnemacher Sound: Aleksandra Nikolic
Plant Whisper
Common agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is a remarkable native medicinal plant, often considered "forgotten," but highly valued in naturopathy. This "field man," better known as agrimony, is a traditional medicinal herb rich in valuable bitter compounds. It belongs to the aromatic herbs (Amara aromatica) and is particularly popular as a tea. The plant, with its yellow flowers, contains tannins, bitter substances, and essential oils and was valued even in antiquity – for example, for liver ailments. It is still used today, for instance, to support voice health or even as a nicotine-free alternative for smokers.
Small agrimony (Agrimonia pox) was also known as a medicinal plant in antiquity and is still used today. It is generally used for inflammatory conditions such as diarrhea, inflammation of the mouth and throat, skin infections, and superficial wounds.
The plant with its yellow flowers contains tannins, bitter substances, and essential oils and was already valued in antiquity – among other things, for liver ailments.
Botanical Facts
Bush and forest edges, semi-dry grasslands
Hardy
Europe, Mediterranean region, western Asia
June - September
Sunny
Prefers fresh to moderately dry soils in sunny locations.
Healing Properties
Generally used for inflammatory diseases such as diarrhea, inflammation in the mouth and throat and on the skin, as well as superficial wounds.
Features
15 – 150 cm
❀ (flowers), 🌿 (herb), 🥕 (root)
⚕ (medicinal plant), 🔧 (dye plant), non-toxic, but not a food plant
It is extremely insect-friendly and a valuable native perennial for natural gardens. It attracts over 38 species of wild bees as well as numerous butterflies, hoverflies, and beetles. Its long flowering period from June to September provides an important food source when many other plants have already finished blooming.
The herb of singers and orators: Perhaps its best-known use is for voice problems. Due to its anti-inflammatory and astringent tannins, a tea infusion is recommended for gargling in cases of hoarseness, sore throat, and strained vocal cords.
Even in ancient times, agrimony (also called Agrimonia) was highly valued, dedicated to the wise goddess Athena, and used especially for liver and gallbladder ailments as well as for wound healing.
Endangerment Level
* Least Concern
All information about herbs has been carefully compiled but does not claim to be complete. None of the information provided constitutes medical advice.
GOLDEN RULE for EVERYTHING: Eat only what you know! The rule applies: a handful of wild plants per person and day may be collected on public land. Use only washed plant parts that you can identify clearly – when in doubt, please refrain from using them.
TIP: One advantage of buying over-the-counter medicines from a pharmacy or specialist retailer is the expert advice on your symptoms.
