ENGLISH NAME: Mouse-ear
Hawkweed
LATIN NAME: Pilosella
officinarum (syn. Hieracium pilosella)
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Chlupáček zední
Turkey: Fare çimeni
Bulgaria: Ронянка, Миши уши
Georgia: თაგვისყურას ბალახი (Tagvisquras
balakhi) (“mouse-ear herb”)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Grasslands and
semi-open woodlands
Elevation: 300–1,700 meters
Terrain: Bright forests,
dry meadows, glades, rocky and disturbed areas
DESCRIPTION:
Mouse-ear Hawkweed is a perennial herb that forms a dense, low-lying rosette of
oblong, spatula-shaped leaves covered in fine white hairs. These soft hairs
give the leaves a mouse-ear-like appearance. Erect, leafless stems bear yellow,
dandelion-like flowers in small clusters. It thrives in dry, nutrient-poor
soils and is tolerant of full sun.
USABLE PARTS: Stem (aerial
parts)
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used for its astringent, diuretic, and mild anti-inflammatory
effects. Employed in folk medicine to treat respiratory issues, urinary tract
problems, and mild bleeding.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Generally considered safe; however, due to its astringency, it may cause
dryness or mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
May be blended with yarrow or goldenrod in urinary or anti-inflammatory tea
blends.
PREPARATION:
Aerial parts are dried and used in teas or infusions. Occasionally used as a
compress for minor wounds or insect bites.
HARVEST TIME:
Late spring to early summer, just before or during flowering.
HARVEST METHOD:
Cut stems with flowers and upper leaves during dry weather. Select undamaged,
healthy plants.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry thoroughly in shade. Store in airtight containers in a dry, cool, and dark
place. Use within one year for best potency.