What to know about Convallaria majalis (lily of the valley) before using it medicinally

Convallaria majalis, commonly known as lily of the valley, is a herbaceous perennial that has been prized for centuries for its health-promoting properties, particularly its ability to reduce anxiety and stress while improving overall cardiovascular health.

As a popular garden flower, it is valued for its fragrant, bell-shaped flowers and evergreen foliage, which can be used to create beautiful hedges and borders. Botanically, Convallaria majalis belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is characterized by its unique, two-lobed leaves and bell-shaped flowers.

Historically, lily of the valley has been associated with luxury and elegance, dating back to ancient Greece and Rome, where it was used in perfumes and as a symbol of good fortune.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Convallaria majalis.

What are the medicinal properties of Convallaria majalis?

Convallaria majalis helps with reducing stress and anxiety due to its sedative and antispasmodic properties. It has been traditionally used to treat conditions such as insomnia, restlessness, and nervous disorders. Its medicinal use also extends to treating fever and rheumatism.

The active constituents responsible for the medicinal properties of Convallaria majalis are cardiac glycosides, specifically convallatoxin and convallatoxin. These compounds have a significant impact on heart function and contribute to the plant's anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effects.

The parts of the plant most used for medicinal purposes are the flowers, leaves, and roots. The flowers are typically used to treat anxiety and insomnia, while the leaves and roots are used to treat fever, rheumatism, and heart conditions. The plant's extracts are often used in herbal remedies.

Improper use of Convallaria majalis can lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. Its use can also be contraindicated in patients with heart conditions, as it can interact with other medications and exacerbate existing conditions.

Common precautions when using Convallaria majalis medicinally include avoiding its use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, as its cardiac glycosides can cause uterine contractions and affect fetal development. It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before using the plant to treat any medical condition.

What are the horticulural aspects of Convallaria majalis?

Convallaria majalis grow best in moist, well-drained soils with a slightly acidic pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They thrive in partial shade to full shade, and tolerate temperatures between 30°F and 65°F (-1°C and 18°C).

For optimal growth, plant Convallaria majalis in the fall or early spring, 3-6 inches deep, and 6-12 inches apart. Water regularly during the first growing season, then reduce watering to once a month. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.

Convallaria majalis is ready to harvest in late spring to early summer, when the berries turn yellow and the leaves begin to die back. Cut off the entire stem just above the node, leaving a short stem for next year's growth. Handle the berries carefully, as they can be damaged easily.

Common pests of Convallaria majalis include aphids, scale, and spider mites, while diseases such as root rot, leaf spot, and crown rot can occur. Regular monitoring and treatment with neem oil, insecticidal soap, and fungicides can help prevent infestations and infections.

What are the botanical aspects of Convallaria majalis?

Convallaria majalis is a perennial plant with long, strap-like leaves that are pointed at the tip and have a waxy texture. The leaves are a bright green color and are arranged in a basal rosette pattern.

Convallaria majalis belongs to the Asparagaceae family and is classified as a member of the Asparagales order. It is further categorized as a genus Convallaria, consisting of a single species. Its closest relatives include Asparagus, Hemerocallis, and Polygonatum.

Several variants of Convallaria majalis exist, including 'Rosea', 'Albiflora', and 'Flore Pleno', which differ in their flower color and leaf shape. These variants are often cultivated for their ornamental value.

Convallaria majalis is native to Europe, western Asia, and northwestern Africa, but has been widely cultivated and naturalized in other parts of the world, including North America and New Zealand. It thrives in woodland and shaded areas with moist soils.

The life cycle of Convallaria majalis begins with a dormant period in winter, followed by a growth period in spring. In summer, the plant produces white, bell-shaped flowers, which are highly fragrant and attractive to pollinators. The flowers give way to red berries that are toxic to humans and animals.

What are the historical aspects of Convallaria majalis?

Convallaria majalis is a flowering plant with a rich history of uses. In traditional European medicine, it was used to treat a range of ailments, including fever, rheumatism, and epilepsy. It was also used to make a fragrant perfume.

In Greek and Roman mythology, the lily of the valley was associated with Apollo and his love for Hyacinth. According to myth, Hyacinth's death was mourned by the gods, and from his blood, the lily of the valley grew. The plant was also linked to the myth of the Three Fates.

In the language of flowers, the lily of the valley is a symbol of purity, chastity, and sweetness. In the Victorian era, it was used to express love and innocence. The plant's delicate white blooms were also associated with the Virgin Mary.

The historical use of lily of the valley is well-documented in medieval texts. The plant was mentioned in the 12th-century herbal, the Trotula of Salerno. It was also listed in the 15th-century herbal, the Herbarius of Ruellius.

Lily of the valley has been depicted in various historical artifacts, including illuminated manuscripts and woodcuts. A 16th-century woodcut by the German artist, Ludwig Muhlbach, features the plant in a scene of a garden. In the 17th century, the French artist, Pierre Patel, illustrated the plant in his book on botany.