Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
Tel/Fax: 01227 730242
Also known as Sicklewort, Babies� Shoes, Baby�s Rattle, Horse and Hound, Thunder and Lightning and Dead Men�s Bellows. Hardy evergreen perennial growing to about 1 ft (30 cm) high, with blue flowers (occasionally pink or white) during spring and summer. Good for ground cover.
Found in the wild in deciduous woods and poor grassland. Important nectar source for hoverflies, bees and butterflies, particularly the Wood White, Pearl Bordered Fritillary, Orange Tip, Duke of Burgundy Fritillary and Marsh Fritillary.
Fresh leaves can be used on bruises and cuts and tumours. The plant used to be used as a hangover remedy! Leaves were also made into a syrup for colds and sore throats. Still used in homeopathy today for treating ulcers. Old folk belief that if brought into the house, Bugle can cause a fire. Herbalists used it to help heal broken bones and wounds. Culpepper recommended it for sores, gangrene and fistulas. Leaves help stop bleeding.
Plant in sun or shade, any soil (moist soil to really flourish). However, tends to prefer semi-shade and will even tolerate deep shade. Spreads fast.
*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*