What to know about Lamium album (white deadnettle) before using it medicinally

Lamium album, commonly known as white deadnettle, is a herb that has been prized for its health-promoting properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects, which can help to alleviate symptoms of colds, coughs, and other respiratory issues.

As a perennial herb, Lamium album is a hardy and adaptable plant that thrives in a variety of conditions, making it a popular choice for gardeners and horticulturists. From a botanical perspective, Lamium album belongs to the Lamiaceae family and is characterized by its distinctive white flowers and heart-shaped leaves.

Historically, white deadnettle has been referenced in traditional herbal medicine for centuries, with ancient Greeks and Romans using it to treat a range of ailments.

This article explains the medicinal, horticultural, botanical, and historical aspects of Lamium album.

What are the medicinal properties of Lamium album?

Lamium album helps with various health issues, including fever reduction, digestive problems, and skin conditions, such as eczema and acne. It has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. Traditionally, it has been used to treat colds and flu. The plant has been used in herbal medicine for centuries.

The active constituents of white deadnettle include iridoid glycosides, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. These compounds are responsible for its medicinal properties, including its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects. The plant's flavonoids have antioxidant and antiviral properties.

The leaves, flowers, and roots of white deadnettle are used for medicinal purposes. The leaves are the most commonly used part, as they contain the highest concentration of active constituents. The flowers are also used, particularly in teas and infusions. The roots have been used in traditional medicine, but their use is less common.

Improper use of white deadnettle can cause side effects, including allergic reactions, gastrointestinal upset, and interactions with medications. The plant can also cause contact dermatitis in some individuals. Overuse can lead to increased sensitivity to the sun.

Precautions when using white deadnettle medicinally include consulting a healthcare professional before use, especially if taking medications or with underlying health conditions. It is also essential to use the plant in moderation and to avoid consuming it in large quantities, as this can cause adverse effects.

What are the horticulural aspects of Lamium album?

Lamium album grow in moist, well-drained soils in partial shade to full sun, tolerating a wide range of pH from slightly acidic to alkaline. It requires minimal maintenance and can thrive in poor soil. Optimal growth occurs in areas with moderate temperatures.

Planting tips include sowing Lamium album seeds directly in the ground in early spring or fall. Space plants 18-24 inches apart and provide support for the stems as they grow. Mulching around the base helps retain moisture and suppress weeds. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot.

For optimal harvesting, snip off Lamium album flower spikes as needed to encourage further blooming. Harvest foliage leaves in late spring or summer, using scissors or pruning shears. Cut back the plant to about 1-2 inches from the ground after blooming has finished. Deadheading promotes healthy regrowth.

Pests commonly affecting Lamium album include aphids, slugs, and snails. Fungal diseases like powdery mildew and leaf spot can also occur. Regularly inspect plants for signs of infestation or disease and implement integrated pest management strategies, such as spraying with neem oil or introducing beneficial insects.

What are the botanical aspects of Lamium album?

Lamium album is a perennial herbaceous plant with a woody base and erect stems, 30-120 cm tall, with opposite leaves and white or pinkish flowers in terminal racemes. Leaves are ovate-lanceolate, 3-8 cm long, and 1-3 cm wide. Flowers are bilabiate, 10-15 mm long, and 5-7 mm wide. Calyx is 5-8 mm long.

Lamium album belongs to the family Lamiaceae and is closely related to other herbs in the genus Lamium. The species name album refers to the white color of the flowers. It is a member of the subfamily Lamioideae. The plant is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa.

There are several variants of Lamium album, including L. album var. album, L. album var. leucanthum, and L. album var. albiflorum. These variants differ in their flower color, leaf shape, and growth habit. Some variants are more common in certain regions or have specific adaptations to different environments.

Lamium album is widely distributed in Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. It can be found in a variety of habitats, including fields, meadows, and along roadsides. The plant is also naturalized in some parts of North America. It has been introduced to other regions as an ornamental or medicinal plant.

The life cycle of Lamium album is typical for a perennial herbaceous plant. It grows from a woody base, produces leaves and flowers in the spring and summer, and goes dormant during the winter. The plant can produce seeds, which are dispersed by wind or animals. The seeds germinate in the spring, and the cycle begins again.

What are the historical aspects of Lamium album?

Lamium album is a plant that has been used for various purposes throughout history. It has been used as a medicinal herb to treat wounds, fever, and rheumatism. Its leaves and stems were also used as a food source in times of famine.

In Greek mythology, Lamium album is associated with the nymph Lamia, who was said to have been a beautiful and cruel queen. The plant's white flowers were said to have been a gift from the gods to the nymph. The mythological connection has contributed to the plant's symbolism in various cultures.

In folklore and mythology, Lamium album is often associated with protection, purification, and healing. It is said to have been used in rituals to purify the body and mind, and to ward off evil spirits. The plant's white flowers are often seen as a symbol of innocence and purity.

The historical texts of Lamium album can be found in the works of medieval herbalists, such as Hildegard of Bingen and John Gerard. The book "De Materia Medica" by Dioscorides, written in the 1st century AD, also describes the plant's medicinal properties. The texts describe the plant's use as a treatment for various ailments, including fever and rheumatism.

Historical artifacts that feature Lamium album include ancient Greek and Roman pottery and coins, which often depict the plant's white flowers. The plant's image is also found in medieval illuminated manuscripts and tapestries, where it is often used as a symbol of purity and protection. The artifacts provide a visual representation of the plant's significance in different cultures and time periods.