ENGLISH NAME: Meadowsweet
LATIN NAME: Filipendula ulmaria
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Tužebník jilmový
Turkey: Kraliçe otu / Çayır otu
Bulgaria: Блатен тъжник (Blaten tǎžnik)
Georgia: ველის ტკბილი ბალახი (Velis tkbili
balakhi)
COUNTRY: Bulgaria, Czechia, Turkey, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Wetlands of South Bohemia (Czechia), Black Sea and Marmara regions
(Turkey), wetlands near Danube and Rila foothills (Bulgaria), Colchic lowlands
(Georgia)
Elevation: 100–1300 meters
Terrain: Damp meadows, streambanks, marsh edges, and forest glades
DESCRIPTION:
A tall, elegant perennial with reddish stems, deeply cut, toothed leaves (white
and downy beneath), and creamy-white flower clusters that emit a sweet,
almond-like aroma. It can grow up to 1.5 meters high. The flowers bloom in mid
to late summer and are rich in salicylates.
USABLE PARTS: Flowers, aerial
parts (including leaves); roots occasionally used
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Naturally contains salicylates (aspirin-like compounds), making it effective
for fever, pain, headaches, and inflammation. It is also used for digestive
upsets, heartburn, and as a mild diuretic. Its gentle action makes it
especially suitable for children and sensitive individuals.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Avoid in people allergic to salicylates (aspirin). May interact with
anticoagulant medications. Rarely, may cause stomach upset.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Combines well with chamomile, peppermint, and licorice for digestive support;
with willow bark or elderflower for fever and inflammation.
PREPARATION:
Flowers are dried for use in teas or infusions. Also prepared as tinctures or
added to herbal bath blends. Aerial parts can be used fresh or dried.
HARVEST TIME:
Mid to late summer, when the flowers are in full bloom and fragrant.
HARVEST METHOD:
Snip flower heads and upper leaves on a dry day. Avoid collecting after rain to
prevent mold during drying.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry flowers and leaves in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Store in airtight
containers away from light and moisture. Use within 1 year for best potency.