ENGLISH NAME: Restharrow
(Spiny Restharrow)
LATIN NAME: Ononis
spinosa
LOCAL NAMES:
Czechia: Jehlice trnitá
Turkey: Dikenli oğulotu
Bulgaria: Гръмотрън
Georgia: ეკლიანი ონონისი (Ekliani
ononisi)
COUNTRY: Turkey,
Bulgaria, Czechia, Georgia
WHERE TO FIND IT:
Region: Sunny, dry rural
landscapes
Elevation: 200–1,300 meters
Terrain: Dry sunny
slopes, limestone-rich soils, pasturelands, and roadside edges
DESCRIPTION:
Spiny Restharrow is a small, spiny perennial shrub growing 30–60 cm tall. It
has tough, woody stems, pinnate leaves with three oval leaflets, and showy pink
to purplish pea-like flowers clustered densely along the stems. The name
“restharrow” refers to the plant’s ability to stop a plow due to its
tough roots and stems.
USABLE PARTS: Root
MEDICINAL
PROPERTIES:
Traditionally used as a diuretic and anti-inflammatory herb. Known for
supporting urinary tract health, relieving mild water retention, and aiding in
kidney function.
UNDESIRED EFFECTS:
Not recommended for long-term use or in cases of kidney inflammation. May cause
mild digestive upset if taken in excess.
COMBINING WITH
OTHER MEDICINES:
Often combined with couch grass, birch leaves, or goldenrod in urinary tract
support formulas.
PREPARATION:
Roots are dried and used in decoctions, infusions, or tinctures. Due to their
hardness, they are typically simmered rather than steeped.
HARVEST TIME:
Late autumn or early spring, when above-ground parts are dormant and root
energy is concentrated.
HARVEST METHOD:
Carefully dig up mature roots, wash thoroughly, and slice if needed for drying.
Avoid harvesting immature plants.
CONSERVATION
(STORAGE):
Dry completely in a warm, well-ventilated area. Store in sealed containers away
from light and moisture. Use within 2 years for best potency.