Dioscorides have already studied the Lady’s mantle plant in the 1st century A.D. Andres de Laguna (16th century), the Spanish translator and commentator of Dioscorides, recommended baths with a decoction from this plant to “close tighten the lower parts,” stating that lost virginity could be restored in this way. That famous Spanish physician also prescribed Lady’s mantle decoction for women since, in his words, “it makes breasts become like apples.”
- Latin/Botanical Name: Alchemilla vulgaris
- Origin: Croatia
- USDA Certified Organic
- Kosher Certified
- cGMP Compliant (current Good Manufacturing Practices)
Current medicine still recommends this plant for women’s health without stating such extremist positions.
Lady’s Mantle Scientific Facts
- Scientific name – Alchmilla vulgaris L.
- French – Alchemille, patte de lion.
- Spanish – Pie de leon, alquimila.
- Environment – Meadows and wet pasture lands in mountainous regions of Europe, North America, and South America.
- Description—A vigorous plant of the Rosaceae family, it grows from 10 to 40 cm high and has large, palm-shaped leaves and small, green flowers without petals.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The whole plant, including its root.
Healing Properties
The entire Lady’s mantle plant contains high amounts of tannin, salicylic acid, and diverse fatty acids. It has astringent, anti-inflammatory, mild sedative, and healing properties. Its many uses are the following:
- Gynecological disorders – The main application of Lady’s mantle is menstrual pain (dysmenorrhea) and vaginal flow (leukorrhea). In the last case, it is applied as vaginal irrigations.
- Problems of the digestive system: diarrhea, chronic colitis, gastritis, and lack of appetite.
- Sore throat – It is applied as gargles and as drinking its decoction.
- Skin wounds and sores – Applied in the form of compresses and washings.
How to use Lady’s Mantle
- Decoction with 40 to 60 grams of leaves and ground root per liter of water. Boil for 10 minutes. Drink three or four cups daily.
- Vaginal irrigations with well-strained liquid resulting from a more concentrated decoction than that used internally, in a proportion of some 100 grams per liter of water.
- Gargles with this concentrated decoction.
- Compresses soaked in the decoction mentioned above.
- Washings on the affected skin areas with the liquid from the concentrated decoction.
Frequently Asked Question
The lady’s mantle plant is a ‘woman’s herb.’ Why is that?
Lady’s Mantle contains plant compounds that may mimic or influence female hormones, particularly progesterone. This makes it potentially useful for:
– Regulating menstrual cycles
– Easing symptoms of PMS
– Managing menopausal discomfort (like hot flashes)
– Potentially supporting fertility (though research here is less conclusive)
Are there benefits of the lady’s mantle plant for men?
While it’s primarily known for women’s health, lady’s mantle has broader uses:
– Wound healing: Traditionally used for its astringent properties to help stop bleeding and promote tissue repair.
– Digestion: May ease diarrhea and digestive upset due to its tannins (compounds with binding effects).
– Potential mild anti-inflammatory effects: Some studies hint at potential anti-inflammatory benefits, which could be helpful for various conditions.
How is the lady’s mantle plant best taken (tea, tincture, etc.)?
– Tea: The most common method is steeping dried leaves in hot water.
– Tincture: Concentrated liquid extracts are available.
– Topical: Compresses of Lady’s Mantle tea can be applied directly to the skin for wound care or inflammation.
Are there any known safety concerns with the lady’s mantle plant?
Lady’s mantle is generally considered safe when used in moderation. However:
– Pregnancy: Avoid during pregnancy as it could influence hormone levels.
– Breastfeeding: More research is needed on its safety for nursing mothers.
– Medication Interactions: Consult your doctor if you take any medications, as the lady’s mantle could potentially interact with some drugs.
Can the lady’s mantle plant help specifically with heavy menstrual bleeding?
Due to its astringent properties, lady’s mantle has been traditionally used to reduce heavy menstrual flow. While some women report benefits, scientific evidence remains limited. It’s crucial to see your doctor to rule out any underlying causes of heavy bleeding.
I have eczema – can lady’s mantle help?
The plant’s potential anti-inflammatory and astringent effects could soothe eczema flare-ups. You can apply cooled lady’s mantle tea as a compress or find skincare products containing the extract.
Are there any reliable studies on the liver-protective effects of lady’s mantle?
Current research on the liver-protective effects of this plant is primarily based on animal models. More human studies are needed to determine whether these benefits translate to people.
Can the lady’s mantle plant be used regularly or best in short courses?
More research is needed to make recommendations on long-term use. It’s usually advised to take breaks when using any herbal remedy, including lady’s mantle. Consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Where can I find a high-quality lady’s mantle?
Look for reputable herb suppliers, and be organic when possible to avoid contamination. Consider growing it yourself if you have garden space!
Is it essential to consult a doctor before using lady’s mantle?
While typically safe, talking to your doctor is wise, especially if you have significant health conditions or take medications. A qualified herbalist can also help personalize the use of Lady’s Mantle.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. vols. 2 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 622. Print. [lady’s mantle plant]
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9075513/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-654/alchemilla
- Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center: https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/patient-education/mantle-cell-lymphoma-facts
Last update on 2024-04-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API