What to know about Alchemilla vulgaris (lady's mantle) before using it medicinally

Alchemilla vulgaris, commonly known as lady's mantle, is a herb that has been valued for its health-giving properties, particularly in supporting liver function and alleviating menstrual cramps.

From a horticultural perspective, this perennial plant thrives in moist soils and partial shade, making it a popular choice for woodland gardens and naturalized areas. From a botanical standpoint, Alchemilla vulgaris features clusters of small, star-shaped flowers in shades of yellow and green, which are highly prized by pollinators and gardeners alike.

In historical terms, the herb has been used for centuries in traditional medicine, with references to its use dating back to the Roman naturalist Pliny the Elder.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Alchemilla vulgaris.

What are the medicinal properties of Alchemilla vulgaris?

Alchemilla vulgaris helps with menstrual cramps, bloating, and other symptoms associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS). It has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties, making it a popular herbal remedy for women's health issues. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat various gynecological problems.

The active constituents of Alchemilla vulgaris, including flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, contribute to its medicinal properties. Flavonoids, in particular, have been shown to have estrogen-like effects, which may help alleviate symptoms associated with PMS. These compounds also exhibit antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities.

The most commonly used parts of Alchemilla vulgaris for medicinal purposes are the leaves and flowers. The leaves are typically harvested in summer and dried for later use in teas, infusions, and tinctures. The flowers can also be used fresh or dried to make infusions and tinctures.

Improper use of Alchemilla vulgaris can cause gastrointestinal upset, including nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. This is due to the plant's high content of tannins, which can irritate the stomach and intestines if ingested in excessive amounts.

Precautions when using Alchemilla vulgaris medicinally include using it in moderation, avoiding excessive doses, and consulting a healthcare professional before using the plant to treat any medical condition, particularly if you have underlying health issues or are pregnant or breastfeeding.

What are the horticulural aspects of Alchemilla vulgaris?

Alchemilla vulgaris grow best in moist, well-drained soils in partial shade. The plant prefers a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0 and tolerates a wide range of temperatures. It thrives in USDA zones 3-9.

Planting tips for Alchemilla vulgaris include selecting a location with good air circulation to prevent fungal diseases. Plant the rhizomes in the spring or fall, spacing them 12-18 inches apart. Water regularly during the first growing season. Mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Harvesting Alchemilla vulgaris requires snipping off the stems with seed heads attached, typically in late summer or early fall. Cut back the stems to encourage new growth. Remove any dead or damaged foliage to maintain plant health. Divide and replant the rhizomes every 3-4 years to maintain vigor.

Common pests and diseases affecting Alchemilla vulgaris include aphids, spider mites, and powdery mildew. Regularly inspect the plants for signs of infestation or infection. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control pests, and treat fungal diseases with a copper-based fungicide.

What are the botanical aspects of Alchemilla vulgaris?

Alchemilla vulgaris is a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the Rosaceae family. It has a rosette-shaped growth habit, with leaves that are pinnate and divided into 10-15 pairs of leaflets. The plant can grow up to 60 cm in height and has a diameter of up to 1.2 m.

Alchemilla vulgaris is a member of the genus Alchemilla, which is a part of the tribe Rosoideae. It is a hexaploid species, with a chromosome number of 2n = 36. The plant has been classified as A. vulgaris by Carl Linnaeus in his 1753 work "Species Plantarum". The genus Alchemilla is further divided into 20 species, including A. mollis and A. arguta.

There are several variants of Alchemilla vulgaris, including A. v. var. glabra, which has glabrous leaves, and A. v. var. albiflora, which has white flowers. The plant also has cultivars such as 'Molte Bleue' and 'Gold Strike', which are used in ornamental gardening. These variants are used to improve the plant's growth habit and flowering performance.

Alchemilla vulgaris is native to Europe and Western Asia, but it has been naturalized in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. The plant grows in moist, woodland areas, and can be found in rocky outcrops and on slopes. It is commonly found in mountainous regions, where the climate is cool and humid.

The life cycle of Alchemilla vulgaris begins with germination, which occurs in the spring. The plant grows vegetatively, producing new leaves and stems, and flowers in the summer. The flowers are self-incompatible, and the plant relies on cross-pollination to produce seeds. The seeds mature in the late summer and fall, and are dispersed by wind and water. The plant dies back to the ground in the winter, only to regrow in the spring.

What are the historical aspects of Alchemilla vulgaris?

Alchemilla vulgaris is a perennial herb that has been used medicinally for centuries. Its leaves, stems, and roots have been used to treat a range of ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and skin conditions. In the 16th century, it was used as a treatment for the plague.

In Greek mythology, the plant was associated with the nymph Alchimilla, who was said to have been transformed into the plant by the gods. The plant was also linked to the goddess Aphrodite, who was said to have worn its leaves in her hair. The mythological associations of the plant were likely used to promote its use in medicine.

The lady's mantle has a range of symbolic meanings, including fertility, innocence, and purity. In the language of flowers, it was often used to convey a sense of modesty and humility. The plant's delicate, fringed leaves were also seen as a symbol of the beauty of nature.

The historical texts that mention the lady's mantle include the works of the 16th-century botanist Leonhart Fuchs and the 17th-century herbalist John Gerard. Both of these authors described the plant's medicinal properties and uses in their writings. The plant was also mentioned in the works of the English herbalist Nicholas Culpeper.

The historical artifacts that feature the lady's mantle include woodcuts and engravings from the 16th and 17th centuries. These illustrations often depicted the plant in a decorative or symbolic context, highlighting its associations with mythology and symbolism. The artifacts also provide insight into the plant's use in medicine and its popularity in European culture during the Renaissance period.