Eggarton Cottages, Eggarton Lane, Godmersham, Kent, CT4 7DY
Tel/Fax: 01227 730242
Also known as Bats-in-the-Belfry, and Throatwort (from its old use as a throat gargle) and is a member of the Bellflower family. Hardy perennial. Grows to about 1 m (39 ins) tall. Leaves resemble nettle leaves. Stalks topped with a cluster of double purple, bell-shaped flowers. In bloom from July to September. Known as Canterbury Bells in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries.
Found naturally in woods and hedges and by riverbanks, mainly in the south of the UK, so plant in a damp, shady area. Will also tolerate dry soil and quite dense shade.
In Poland, children suffering from consumption were bathed in the herb. If their skin darkened they would live, if it didn�t they would die. Flowers were boiled and left to steep and then the mixture used for ear problems. The root could be taken for stomach pains, steeped in strong liquer.
Plant in spring in good soil and with little competition from other plants. It is a good self-seeder and will quickly multiply. Cut plant down to ground-level in autumn.
*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*