Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa)

Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) is a member of the Polygonaceae family, native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Traditionally, its leaves, stems, and roots have been used for decoctions, infusions, and poultices.

This herb is particularly valued for its diuretic, bitter, and astringent actions, and has a long history of use in european herbal medicine, mediterranean herbal traditions, and native american herbal medicine.

Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) dried pieces of the herb arranged on a wooden table for reference — Common Sorrel (Rumex acetosa) dried pieces of the herb arranged together on a wooden table for reference, used in teas and remedies.

Quick Facts / Key Information

Common Name	Common Sorrel
Scientific Name	Rumex acetosa
Plant Family	Polygonaceae
Genus	Rumex
Species	acetosa
Native Range	Europe, Asia, North Africa
Plant Parts Used	Leaves, Stems, Roots
Primary Medicinal Actions	Diuretic, Bitter, Astringent
Primary Traditional Systems	European Herbal Medicine, Mediterranean Herbal Traditions, Native American Herbal Medicine
Historical Preparation Methods	Decoction, Infusion, Poultice

Botanical Identity

Scientific Name: Rumex acetosa
Common Name: Common Sorrel
Synonyms / Alternative Names: Common Sorrel, Red Sorrel, Yellow Sorrel
Plant Family: Polygonaceae
Genus: Rumex

Botanical Description

Growth Habit: Perennial herbaceous plant.
Height: It typically reaches a height of 30 to 80 centimeters.
Leaves: Lobed leaves with reddish veins and a glossy upper surface, characterized by a prominent midrib and a smooth lower surface.
Flowers: Inflorescence consists of solitary flowers with five sepals and two stamens, each flower exhibiting actinomorphic symmetry and displaying yellowish-green coloration with reddish markings on the outer surface of the sepals.
Stems: Erect, herbaceous, glabrous, with alternate branching and smooth, cylindrical surface.

Traditional Uses / Historical Use

Traditional Systems

European Herbal Medicine
Mediterranean Herbal Traditions

Historical Preparation Methods

Decoction
Infusion
Poultice
Powder

Medicinal Actions

Diuretic: As described in traditional systems, a moderate diuretic, in cleansing-oriented uses.
Bitter: In herbal literature, noted as a cooling bitter, in bitter herb groupings.
Astringent: Historically regarded as a soothing astringent, in drying-focused uses.
Anti-inflammatory: Commonly referenced as a gentle anti-inflammatory, for general calming applications.

Active Compounds

Tannin: Naturally occurring polyphenols widely distributed in woody and leafy plant parts.
Phenolic Acid: A class of aromatic plant compounds commonly found in leaves, seeds, and stems.
Flavonoid: A group of naturally occurring compounds commonly present in many flowering plants.
Coumarin: Naturally occurring lactone compounds distributed across various plant tissues.

Modern Research Overview

Scientific literature concerning this plant spans multiple areas, including phytochemistry and laboratory research. Detailed analysis of published studies is not included at this time and will be added as part of future editorial expansion.

Safety & Contraindications

General Precautions: General precautions have been noted regarding the use of this herb.
Contraindications: Reports outlining specific contraindications for this herb are limited.
Allergies: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb commonly causes allergic reactions.
Drug Interactions: There is insufficient evidence to determine whether this herb interacts with pharmaceutical drugs.
Toxicity: Toxic effects associated with this herb have not been well documented.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Information addressing pregnancy and breastfeeding-related safety for this herb is limited.

Preparation & Usage Methods

Infusion: Plant material is steeped in hot water to extract water-soluble compounds.
Decoction: Plant parts are gently boiled in water to release soluble constituents.
Poultice: A topical preparation made by applying softened plant material externally.
Powder: This method converts dried plant material into a uniform powder.
Culinary Use: Leaves, flowers, or roots are used as ingredients in culinary preparations.

Growing, Harvesting & Storage

Growing / Cultivation

Soil: Prefers loamy soil with well-drained conditions. Typically grows best in organically rich soils.
Sunlight: Thrives in full sun. Tolerates full sun to partial shade.
Watering: Prefers moist soils. Tolerates variable moisture levels.