ENGLISH NAME: Lady’s mantle
LATIN NAME: Alchemilla vulgaris
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Kontryhel obecný
Turkey: Aslanpençesi
Bulgaria: Цариче
Georgia: ქალწულის მანტია (Kaltsulis mantia)
COUNTRY: Bulgaria, Czechia, Turkey, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Central Bohemia (Czechia), Eastern Anatolia (Turkey), Rhodope Mountains
(Bulgaria), Adjara (Georgia)
Elevation: 300–2000 meters
Terrain: Meadows, forest edges, mountainous and subalpine zones
DESCRIPTION:
A perennial herb with soft, lobed, fan-shaped leaves that form rosettes and
have a characteristic scalloped edge. The leaves are often covered in fine
hairs and can hold dewdrops, which led to their historical use in alchemical
practices. It produces small, yellow-green flowers in dense clusters during
late spring and summer.
USABLE PARTS: Aerial parts –
primarily the leaves and flowering tops
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used to treat menstrual disorders, support female reproductive
health, and reduce inflammation. It has astringent properties beneficial for
diarrhea and wound healing.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally well-tolerated; in rare cases, may cause digestive discomfort or
allergic skin reactions.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Can be combined with yarrow or raspberry leaf for women’s health support,
especially during menstruation or menopause.
PREPARATION:
Used as a tea or infusion. Dried leaves and flowers are steeped in hot water.
Can also be used in sitz baths for gynecological issues or as a poultice for
wounds.
HARVEST TIME:
Late spring to early summer, ideally before full flowering for maximum potency.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut the aerial parts with scissors or a sickle on a dry day after the dew has
evaporated. Avoid harvesting during rain or high humidity to prevent mold
during drying.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry in a well-ventilated, shaded place. Store in airtight containers away from
sunlight and moisture for up to one year.