Dorothy FarrarDock knotweed
The sorrel knotweed is one of the plants that are considered weeds. However, it can also be used as a medicinal plant. The sorrel knotweed (Persicaria lapathifolia) is a plant that looks rather unspectacular and is therefore often overlooked. It belongs to the knotweed genus (Persicaria) and to the knotweed family (Polygonaceae).
Definition and Occurrence
The sorrel knotweed is an annual plant that can reach a maximum height of 1.0 to 1.5 meters. The plant leaves have the shape of an egg or a lancet. A common feature is a brown spot in their center. The multifaceted sorrel knotweed usually thrives upright and has relatively strong branching. In the summer months, a knotty flower stalk develops. The leaves that grow on it get smaller and smaller as you get higher. From July to October, the small flowers bloom, the color of which is pink. They are grouped into ears of corn.
The sorrel knotweed is native to Europe. It is particularly common in Central European countries, where it can be found in temperate climate regions. The preferred growth places are loose loamy soils that are rich in nutrients. This includes gardens, roadsides and fields. The plant also thrives on the banks of rivers. In the places where the sorrel knotweed grows, it is often considered a weed. However, it can be used both as a wild vegetable and as a medicinal plant .
Ingredients, effect and dosage
The sorrel knotweed is rich in oxalic acid. In addition, it has tannins and important minerals such as vitamin A , vitamin B6 , vitamin C , magnesium , potassium , calcium , tannic acid, flavoglycosides, proteins , potassium bioxalate, iron , fiber and proteins . The mixture of micronutrients and vitaminsforms the basis for the healing effects of the plant. The formation of red blood cells is promoted by the high iron content. In this way, the organs receive enough oxygen .The human cardiovascular system is in turn supported by potassium, while the immune system can be strengthened by the high vitamin C content. However, due to the high oxalic acid content, it is not recommended to take dockweed in large quantities. Various components are suitable for therapeutic use of the medicinal plant. This includes the leaves, the sap, the dried roots and the seeds. Which sections are most effective for the treatment depends on the respective complaints.
The sorrel knotweed can be given both internally and externally. The internal forms of application include the sorrel knotweed tea, which has astringent and bactericidal properties . For example, the tea is used against inflammation in the mouth. It can also be administered against fever and has a positive effect on a weak stomach.
However, the amount of tea should not be more than 15 milligrams to counteract symptoms of poisoning . For external use, poultices are made with the tea to treat eczema, insect bites or burns. Washes and partial baths are also possible. The sorrel knotweed is also used in the kitchen. Its leaves are eaten raw in a salad or as a cooked vegetable.
What does the sorrel knotweed help against?
importance to health
Despite its negative reputation as a weed, the dockweed is important to human health. The plant has a positive effect on the activity of the intestine . This includes, for example, a calming effect on indigestion. In addition, the dock knotweed can also be administered against diarrhea, constipation and flatulence. The positive properties of the medicinal herb are due to its high fiber content.
This also has a positive effect on the cholesterol level in the blood , which in turn is good for the heart and circulation . Furthermore, the sorrel knotweed has an antibacterial and astringent effect. Its use is therefore also considered useful for mild skin infections. He supports the healing process of the skin by applying compresses. Furthermore, the medicinal plant has detoxifying and blood-cleansing effects.
The sorrel knotweed can also be used together with other natural remedies. These include primarily the cowslip and the elder . In this way, an effective anti-inflammatory combination can be achieved. The sorrel knotweed is also used in homeopathy . This uses the medicinal herb against diseases of the respiratory tract and skin complaints. The plant is also said to have an expectorant effect. In addition, digestive problems and menstrual problems in women are treated.However, therapy with the sorrel knotweed is not suitable for everyone. People who have kidney stones, rheumatism or gout are advised not to take the plant internally. The same applies to women who are pregnant or breastfeeding .
Hello and welcome to my Health Guide & Encyclopedia! My name is Dorothy Farrar, and I'm the founder and main author of this platform.
My passion for health and wellness started at a young age when I became interested in the connection between the food we eat and the way we feel. This fascination led me to study nutrition and dietetics in college, where I learned about the importance of a balanced diet and the impact of various nutrients on the body.