Despite beginning in the Middle Ages, the use of mouse ear hawkweed is not widespread. Perhaps this is because it loses its medicinal properties once the plant dries.
Mouse Ear Hawkweed Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Hieraclum pilosella L.
- Other Names – Hawkweed, Pilosella.
- French – Piloselle.
- Spanish – Vellosilla.
- Environment – Meadows and sunny bushes all over Europe, except the Mediterranean coastline. It also grows along the Atlantic coastline of North America.
- Description—This is a Vibrant plant of the Compositae family. It has a rose of hairy leaves at its base, from which a leafless stem grows 10 to 20 cm high. On the tip of this stem, there is a yellow flower chapter.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The entire plant, when fresh.
Healing Properties
The mouse ear hawkweed plant contains a high amount of tannin, which gives it astringent solid properties; flavonoids, an essential oil with diuretic and depurative properties; mucilages with anti-inflammatory properties; and a coumarin substance, which is a derivative from the umbelliferone, with antibiotic properties. Its indications are as follows:
Diarrhea and dysentery – It stops rectal bleeding.
Edema, nephrosis albuminuria, kidney insufficiency – Besides increasing urine volume, it promotes the elimination of urea and reduces kidney inflammation.
Hemorrhage—When locally applied, its potent astringent properties prevent nose bleeds. Internally, it is also used as an infusion against excessive menstruation.
Brucellosis—Its antibiotic components act in a particular way against Brucella mellitensis, a bacteria that causes Malt fever or brucellosis. It has been proven that cattle eating in pastures where mouse ear grows never suffer from brucellosis. The plant decreases fever and stops the typical perspiration of this disease. It must be taken for several months.
How to use Mouse Ear
- Infusion with 50 to 69 grams of fresh plant per liter of water. Drink from 3 to 5 cups daily, sweetened with honey.
- Nose packing: Use gauze or a piece of cotton soaked in the above infusion, which is slightly more concentrated (100 – 150 grams per liter).
Frequently Asked Question
What are the most commonly claimed benefits of using mouse ear hawkweed?
Is there scientific evidence to back up these claims?
Limited but promising: Research is ongoing, with some laboratory and animal studies showing potential.
Which part of the mouse ear hawkweed plant is used?
The above-ground parts (leaves, flowers, stems) are primarily utilized for their potential medicinal properties.
How is mouse ear hawkweed typically prepared and consumed?
Tea: A familiar form made by infusing dried plant material in hot water.
Tincture: A liquid extract made with alcohol.
Capsules: Supplements containing powdered mouse ear hawkweed may be available.
Are there any known side effects of mouse ear hawkweed?
Generally well-tolerated: Most people experience few or no side effects.
Mild concerns: Possible digestive upset or skin irritation in rare cases.
Can everyone use mouse ear hawkweed safely?
Caution necessary: People with existing health conditions, those taking medications, and pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before use.
Drug interactions: Potential interactions with diuretics and blood pressure medications – medical advice is crucial.
Where can I find reliable information about mouse ear hawkweed’s potential health benefits?
Reputable sources:
National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
Does mouse ear hawkweed have anti-inflammatory properties?
Preliminary evidence: Some studies suggest anti-inflammatory effects, but more research is needed to confirm its use for specific inflammatory conditions.
Is mouse ear hawkweed recognized as a medicinal plant by any official bodies?
Status varies: Some traditional herbal medicine systems include it, but modern regulatory agencies like the FDA do not widely approve it.
Can mouse ear hawkweed help with weight loss?
No direct evidence: Its diuretic action might cause temporary water weight loss, but it’s not a sustainable or reliable solution for fat loss.
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. 504. Print. [mouse ear hawkweed]
- WebMD – Mouse-Ear Hawkweed: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-133/mouse-ear-hawkweed
- RxList – Mouse Ear: https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/mouse_ear.htm
- European Medicines Agency: https://www.ema.europa.eu/en/documents/herbal-summary/mouse-ear-hawkweed-summary-public_en.pdf
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH): https://www.nccih.nih.gov/
- PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
- Google Scholar: https://scholar.google.com/