Lions's Foot

(Alchemilla vulgaris)

According to Greek and Ayurvedic texts its temperament is mildly cold and dry. The taste is bitter, astringent. Main constituents include Tannic acid, salicylic acid and volatile oil.

Alchemilla is astringent, organize disturbed menstrual cycles. It has strengthening effect of the digestive system. It is anti bacterial and a good treatment for wounds.

It is called Lady’s mantle due to the specific round shape of the leaves and may be due to its effectiveness in treatment of female problems. Nicolas Clibber wrote in 1653 about Alchemilla. He mentioned in one of his books that Alchemilla is one of the best herbs for treatment of wounds of all sorts. He has used this herb for treating wound, both internally and externally.

As mentioned aerial parts are astringent and are useful for dysentery and infections of the stomach. It helps regularize excessive menstrual bleeding. It is also used for reducing or even eliminating menstrual cramps. Alchemilla is actually a female plant as it greatly regularizes the menstrual disturbance.

Decoction of Alchemilla is prepared in hot water and is useful in treatment of dysentery and infections in the stomach. For chronic conditions, it can be taken up to five times daily. Its tincture is used to reduce menstrual cramps and regularization. This tincture has also been found great for problems related to menopause.

Diluted liquid extract of Alchemilla is used to wash bleeding wounds and skin areas suffering from eczema. Alchemilla ointment mixed with few drops of rose water is applied to skin for itching. Alchemilla gargle is also a good treatment for sore throat and respiratory tract infection. For this  it is used as gargle. For vaginal infections, the same liquid can be used as vaginal wash.

Mix 20 drops of Alchemilla tincture with 20 grams of Cocoa butter, make vaginal suppositories and use for above conditions. 
Use of Alchemilla during pregnancy is not safe, as it is can cause premature delivery. If a disturbing change is noticed during bleeding pattern (menstruation), treatment must be stopped and physician’s help acquired.