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Member of the Rose family. Hardy perennial. Can grow to about 2 m (6.6 ft). Has branched clusters of frothy, tiny, cream flowers at the top of stems and fern-like leaves which are green on top and grey underneath. Also known as Bridewort, from being strewn at weddings, Steeplebush, Trumpet Weed and False Spirea. Flowers June to August. Druids hold it as one of the most sacred herbs, along with Watermint and Vervain. Name comes form the Latin �ulmus (elm) due to the shape of the plant�s leaves. Its Gaelic name (Ius Cuchulainn, and rios Cuchulainn) associates the plant with the legendary warrior, Cuchulainn, who was treated with Meadowsweet baths to cure uncontrollable rage and fevers. The plant�s name may also come from the Latin �filum� meaning thread, and �pendulus�, meaning drooping � referring to the root tubers of some species which hang together by threads.
Meadowsweet is also known as Queen of the Meadow, and Meadow Wort, and is believed to be at least 4,000 years old (traces of it have been found in the remains of a Neolithic drink in the Hebrides!) It is also a close relative of the Spiraea shrub.
As it is a fragrant plant, its leaves were strewn across floors in medieval houses and churches. Its name derives from its use in flavouring mead � meadsweet. Leaves smell of disinfectant when crushed. It was believed that the plant�s heady scent could induce such a deep sleep that you might never awaken. Therefore, it was deemed unlucky to have indoors and was redolent of Death in some towns.
Many years ago, Meadowsweet was used to treat malaria when the disease was prevalent in marshy areas. It is also a traditional remedy for acidic stomach. The fresh roots are used today in homeopathy. Leaves were distilled to strengthen the eyes and prevent itching. If the plant was laid on water on St John�s Day, it would reveal a thief � a woman if it floated, a man if it sank.
Salicylic acid was first discovered in this plant�s flower buds in 1838, and was later used in Aspirin. The flowers can also be used to treat rheumatism, arthritis and heartburn. Roots make a good detergent. Ancient Celts used the plant as a dye. Good for treating diarrhoea, particularly in children. Also used for ulcers and inflammation of kidneys and liver.
Russian folklore tells of Kudryash, the bravest knight in his village, who one day became terrified of his own death and could no longer fight. A band of thieves came to the village but Kudryash was too scared to help. He fled, ashamed, to the river to drown himself. But out of the water came a beautiful maiden and gave him a garland of Meadowsweet flowers. She said he would be unharmed if he wore it in battle. He returned to the village, wore the garland and defeated the thieves.
Other folklore claims that where Meadowsweet grows there are no snakes, which can also mean, therefore, that there is no evil.
Food plant of hoverflies and bees. Food plant for caterpillars of the following moths � Brown Spot Pinion, Hebrew Character, Powdered Quaker, Emperor, Lesser Cream Wave and Satyr Pug. Roots produce a black dye and the leaves a blue pigment. Seeds provide food for birds.
Naturally found in boggy areas or damp woodland, ditches and hedgerows, so ideal for planting near a pond. Thrives best in light shade. Cut back in autumn and divide clumps if necessary. Plant dies back in winter.
CAUTION - DO NOT TAKE IF ALLERGIC TO ASPIRIN
*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*