ENGLISH NAME: Heather (Common
Heather)
LATIN NAME: Calluna
vulgaris
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Vřes obecný
Turkey: Funda
Bulgaria: Пирен, Калуна
Georgia: უჯვართასბალახი (Ujvartsbalakhi)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Central and
Northern Europe, Caucasus
Elevation: 200–2,000 meters
Terrain: Sandy and silty
soils, heathlands, open pine forests, mountain slopes, moorlands
DESCRIPTION:
Heather is a low-growing, woody shrub typically 20–60 cm tall. It has tiny,
evergreen, needle-like leaves arranged in opposite pairs. Its small,
bell-shaped flowers bloom from late summer to early fall and are most commonly
pink or purple, though white forms also exist. It forms dense mats in heath and
moor environments.
USABLE PARTS: Flower
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its diuretic, antiseptic, and mild sedative
properties. Often included in teas for urinary tract health and mild anxiety.
Also known for its antimicrobial effects and occasional use in treating gout or
rheumatism.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally safe in moderate amounts. Not recommended for use during pregnancy
without medical advice.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often used in combination with bearberry or corn silk in urinary tract blends.
PREPARATION:
Flowers are dried and used in herbal teas, potpourri, and decorative bundles. Can
be infused into oils or used in homemade skin-care recipes for soothing baths.
HARVEST TIME:
Late summer to early fall, when flowers are fully open and at their most
fragrant.
HARVEST METHOD:
Snip flowering branches with scissors or shears. Avoid over-harvesting from a
single plant to ensure continued growth.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Air-dry in small bundles or on racks in a shaded, dry location. Store in
airtight containers in a dark, cool place. Flowers maintain fragrance and
potency for about one year.