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Many gardeners know meadowsweet(or meadowsweet) as an unpretentious decorative, and, most importantly, beautiful plant, numbering more than 15 species. But few people know that some types of meadowsweet have medicinal properties and help cure many diseases.

To such medicinal types meadowsweet include:

• vyazolifolny;
• six-petalled;
• Kamchatka;
• palm-shaped.

ABOUT beneficial properties these types of meadowsweet, their use in medicine will be discussed below. We will also provide recipes that will help cope with women's diseases, rheumatism, hypertension and other diseases.

Meadowsweet plant (meadowsweet)

Meadowsweet (this plant is also called meadowsweet) is a tall perennial, having a stem whose height reaches 60 - 150 cm. The flowers of the plant are distinguished by a yellow-white hue and large dense paniculate inflorescences. The flowers emit a fragrant aroma.

Meadowsweet grows in swampy meadows (mainly in river floodplains), near reservoirs, and in dense thickets of bushes.

Application

Today, meadowsweet is used in folk medicine, and is also included in the register of the official pharmacopoeia of Russia. This plant is used as an anticonvulsant, anti-inflammatory and bactericidal agent.
Meadowsweet is indicated for the treatment of the following conditions and diseases:

• rheumatism;
• hypertension (meadowsweet preparations lower blood pressure by about 40 percent in just 20 minutes);
• diseases of the nervous system;
• skin diseases (wounds, burns, ulcers, diaper rash, eczema);
• bladder diseases;
• kidney diseases;
• haemorrhoids;
• inflammatory pain;
• diarrhea;
• suffocation;
• headache;
• runny nose;
• dysentery;

In addition, the plant has an antitoxic effect, due to which it is used for snake bites or rabid dogs. To do this, apply freshly cut and crushed plant root to the affected area of ​​the skin.

It is important that meadowsweet, having a wide range of medicinal properties, is practically harmless to the human body, since it does not cause allergic reactions.

IN medicinal purposes Mainly the grass and flowers of meadowsweet are used.

Meadowsweet flowers

Meadowsweet flowers are used as a diaphoretic. In addition, bleeding and diarrhea are treated with infusion from this part of the plant.

To prepare the infusion, 1 tbsp. The flowers of the plant are poured with 450 ml of boiling water and left to infuse for three hours in a closed container. Next, the infusion is filtered and 2 tablespoons are drunk. every two hours.

The dry flower is sprinkled on burns on the skin.

Meadowsweet herb

A decoction of meadowsweet herb is indicated for the following pathologies:

• gout;
• pneumonia;

The herb of the plant is used as a hemostatic and astringent for diarrhea and uterine bleeding.

It should be noted that a decoction of meadowsweet herb is recommended for washing your hair, as it enhances hair growth.

1 tbsp. meadowsweet herbs along with sprouts should be poured with half a liter of boiled water, then leave the product to infuse overnight. The strained infusion is taken four times a day, 50–70 ml, before meals.

Meadowsweet ointment is used to treat many skin diseases. To prepare the ointment, you need to mix the following ingredients:

• meadowsweet grass powder – 5 g;
• Vaseline – 10 g;
• lanolin – 5 g.

Meadowsweet six-petalled (common)

Common meadowsweet (or six-petalled meadowsweet) differs from the previous species in the presence of roots with tubers and a less lush white flower cap. In addition, the height of this perennial plant does not exceed 80 cm.

This type of meadowsweet grows in meadows and forest edges, although its thickets can also be found on roadsides.

This one is pretty rare view meadowsweet is used in the treatment of the following pathologies:

• gastrointestinal disorders;
• kidney diseases;
• urinary tract diseases;
• rheumatism;
• gout;
• women's diseases;
• leucorrhoea;
• haemorrhoids.

Meadowsweet root

Basically, the roots of the plant with its tuberous thickenings are used for medicinal purposes, since it is the roots that contain tannins, glycosides, and starch. It is thanks to these substances that the plant is used as an astringent, diaphoretic and diuretic.

Also, the roots of six-petalled meadowsweet are one of the components of the preparations that are indicated for stomach pain.

If we talk about the tubers of the plant, they are used in the treatment of leukemia.

The decoction of rhizomes given below is used to wash purulent wounds and snake bites.

5 g of meadowsweet rhizomes are poured into a glass of boiling water, then the product is boiled over low heat for another 15 minutes, cooled and carefully filtered. With this decoction you can not only wash wounds, but also douche (for example, with leucorrhoea).

Important! It is the common meadowsweet that has the most pronounced astringent, diuretic, and hemostatic properties, therefore this type of plant is most often used in scientific medicine.

Kamchatka meadowsweet (Kamchatka meadowsweet)

Kamchatka meadowsweet grows on Sakhalin Island, the Kamchatka Peninsula and the Kuril Islands.

This is one of the tallest species, the height of which varies between 1.5 - 3 m. Large inflorescences of Kamchatka meadowsweet are distinguished by a snow-white or cream shade. This medicinal plant grows in damp areas.

Both the above-ground part of the plant (stems, leaves, flowers) and rhizomes with roots act as medicinal raw materials.

Kamchatka meadowsweet is credited with anti-inflammatory, analgesic and anti-scorbutic effects, therefore preparations from this plant are used in the treatment of diarrhea, gastrointestinal diseases, epilepsy, poorly healing wounds and bites.

Boiled meadowsweet leaves are applied to a sore tooth as a pain reliever, while crushed leaves are used to treat burns.

For internal use, the following infusion is indicated: 1 tbsp. dry and thoroughly crushed herb is poured into a glass of boiling water, and then the resulting composition is infused for two hours, filtered and consumed 50 ml four times a day.

Meadowsweet (meadowsweet)

This perennial plant, common in the Far East, grows in forest meadows and bushes. Meadowsweet got its name from its large, finger-shaped leaves, which in their shape resemble the palm of a hand. Unlike other species, meadowsweet has long underground rhizomes. The height of the plant does not exceed one meter.

The stems, leaves, flowers, and roots of the plant are used for medicinal purposes.

A decoction of the herb and roots of the plant is taken for:

• gout;
• rheumatism;
• epileptic seizures;
• spasmophilia;
• burns.

Modern medicine also resorts to the help of meadowsweet preparations, using them as general strengthening, diuretic, wound-healing, analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents. This wide application The plant is quite reasonable, since its root contains salicylic acid derivatives, which form the basis of aspirin.

To prepare a decoction of meadowsweet, 1 tbsp. dry and thoroughly crushed leaves should be poured with 200 ml of water, then boiled for 4 minutes, then leave the broth for two hours and strain. The product is taken warm, half a glass, no more than three times a day.

Collection and storage

Meadowsweet blooms from June to July, while the fruits ripen from July to August. The rhizomes and roots of the plant are harvested in the fall (from September to October) or early spring (from March to April). Dig out the roots and rhizomes with shovels, then shake them off the ground and cut them into strips 10–15 cm long. Next, use a knife to cut off the above-ground parts of the plant, which are immediately washed in cold water.

Collected raw materials, laid out thin layer on paper or fabric, dry in the attic or under awnings, and the room must be well ventilated.

Properly collected and dried raw materials have a dark brown color, a characteristic odor and a bitter-tart taste.

Raw materials are stored in a dry and well-ventilated area for no more than three years.

Composition and medicinal properties of meadowsweet

Vitamin C

Action of vitamin C:

• participates in the biosynthesis of corticosteroid hormones, which are responsible for the adaptive reactions of the body;
• increases immunity;
• eliminates inflammation;
• stabilizing effect on connective tissue;
• improves psycho-emotional state, since it affects the formation of dopamine, norepinephrine, as well as serotonin and endorphins.

Tannins

These substances precipitate protoplasmic proteins, thereby exerting either an irritating or astringent effect on the mucous membranes (it all depends on the concentration of the solution).

Properties:

• astringent;
• hemostatic;
• antioxidant.

Phenolic compounds (monotropitin, spirein)

Properties:

• stimulating (activate the functioning of the adrenal cortex);
• antiseptic;
• diuretic;
• adaptogenic (increase protective forces organism);
• antispasmodic;
• sedative;
• choleretic;
• hemostatic.

Salicylic acid

Action of salicylic acid:

• normalizes capillary permeability, thereby preventing tissue swelling;
• participates in the formation of inflammatory mediators;
• suspends the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, which play an important role in the development of inflammation, as well as pain, which relieves inflammation.

Flavonoids

Properties:

• anti-inflammatory;
• antiallergic;
• antivirus;
• anti-carcinogenic;
• antioxidant;
• choleretic;
• antiulcer;
• diuretic;
• antispasmodic.

Catechins

These substances neutralize free radicals, thereby preventing the development of cancer. In addition, catechins resist the effects of bacteria and prevent cell destruction, thereby significantly slowing down the aging process of the body.

Phenolcarboxylic acids

Action:

• relieve inflammation;
• accelerate the process of bile excretion;
• strengthen kidney function;
• stimulate the antitoxic function of the liver.

Essential oils

Action of essential oils:

• normalize the functioning of the cardiovascular system;
• soften cough;
• enhance the separation of mucus from the bronchi;
• improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

Properties:

• bactericidal;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antiseptic;
• stimulating;
• sedative.

Fatty acid

Action of fatty acids:

• participate in the process of energy formation;
• participate in the construction of membranes, which make up the skeleton of cells;
• normalize metabolism, being components of various lipids.

Glycosides

Properties:

• diuretic;
• antimicrobial;
• sedative;
• laxative;
• expectorant;
• vasodilator;
• disinfectant.

Starch

Used as an enveloping agent in the treatment of inflammatory gastrointestinal diseases. In addition, starch belongs to the class of easily digestible carbohydrates, which, transforming into glucose, quickly saturate the body with energy.

Wax

It has bactericidal and astringent properties, therefore it is used in the treatment of difficult-to-heal wounds and various skin diseases.

Properties of meadowsweet

• Astringent;
• antibacterial;
• diaphoretic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• wound healing;
• antiseptic;
• antiscorbutic;
• anthelmintic;
• tonic;
• restorative;
• bactericidal;
• diuretic;
• choleretic (strengthens the liver’s ability to fight toxic damage to the body);
• pain reliever;
• antidiabetic;
• diuretic;
• antipyretic;
• antitumor.

Treatment using meadowsweet

Due to their composition, meadowsweet preparations are widely used in medicine in the treatment of the following pathologies:

• headache;
• rheumatic joint damage;
• cold;
• arthralgia;
• dysentery;
• epilepsy;
• gout;
• inflammation of the kidneys and urinary tract;
• hypertension;
• diseases of the nervous system;
• spasms of internal organs;
• bronchitis;
• bronchial asthma;
• pneumonia;
• festering wounds;
• malignant tumors;
• haemorrhoids;
• diarrhea;
• insomnia;
• anemia;
• psoriasis;
• cardiac edema;
• intestinal and gastric polyps;
• intestinal atony;
• respiratory diseases;
• oncological diseases;
• arthritis;
• arthrosis;
• neuritis of the facial nerve;
• inflammation of the sciatic and trigeminal nerves;
• intercostal neuralgia;
• trophic ulcers;
• inflammation;
• migraine;
• herpes zoster;
• diaper rash;
• non-healing wounds;
• bedsores;

In addition, the plant is used in the treatment of snake bites.

Both the aboveground and underground parts of the meadowsweet are used for medicinal purposes, namely:

• root;
• grass;
• flowers.

Root

The rhizomes of the plant, like its roots, are used in the treatment of arterial hypertension, nervous disorders, and diseases of the upper respiratory tract. Meadowsweet root can be used to remove helminths. Preparations from meadowsweet, which include roots, have an anticonvulsant and also a calming effect on the central nervous system, relieve pain, and stop bleeding. In addition, in the official pharmacopoeia, rhizomes, as well as root tubers, are used in the manufacture of certain herbal medicines, that is, drugs obtained from natural raw materials through extraction or extraction.

Grass

Used as a tea to relieve fatigue and normalize sleep. Also, preparations from the meadowsweet herb are indicated in the treatment of a runny nose. Powder from the grass is used to cover wounds, burns, eczema, and to treat diaper rash on the legs.

Flowers

The flowers are mainly used as a diaphoretic, diuretic, anthelmintic and astringent for diarrhea, bleeding, chest pain, stomach and intestines. Meadowsweet flower is also used to treat heart disease, to eliminate hysterical convulsions and relieve headaches.

Application of meadowsweet

In folk medicine, meadowsweet is used to cure throat and chest diseases, aches, choking, hernias, as well as gastrointestinal disorders and anemia. In some cases, meadowsweet preparations can be used as an antitumor agent.

Scientific medicine has also recognized the benefits of this plant, which is part of the multicomponent collection Zdrenko, indicated in the treatment of gastrointestinal diseases (gastritis, intestinal ulcers, hemorrhoids) and bladder.

This collection has the following range of effects on the body:

• wound healing;
• soothing;
• laxative;
• immunostimulating;
• choleretic;
• diuretic.

In addition, this collection, consisting of 35 herbs, has anticarcinogenic and antitumor effects.

Zdrenko's herbal collection is indicated for the treatment of hormone-dependent benign and malignant tumors, including:

• fibroids;
• fibroids;
• breast and uterine cancer;
• prostate cancer.

The collection is used internally for a long time (about six months), while external use in the form of microenemas is also possible.

Mostly meadowsweet preparations are used in the form of tinctures, infusions, decoctions, ointments, and tea.

Tincture

This form of meadowsweet preparations is used to treat long-term non-healing wounds, trophic ulcers and other skin lesions. Alcohol tincture of meadowsweet has an antibacterial effect, therefore it promotes rapid granulation and epithelization of the affected surface of the skin. In addition, it has been proven that the plant tincture has a sedative and anticonvulsant effect, as a result of which it is prescribed to calm the central nervous system, reduce capillary permeability and reduce the formation of erosions and ulcers directly in the stomach. The remedy is also used for various hormonal disorders, goiter, and female diseases.

To prepare a tincture for compresses, dried meadowsweet (herb) is poured with vodka in a ratio of 1:5, respectively. The product is infused for at least five days. You can use the pharmacy version of the tincture, which is taken orally, 25 drops per 150 ml of water three times a day, before meals.

Decoction

A decoction of the roots of the plant is taken orally for:

• malignant neoplasms;
• hypertension;
• rheumatism;
• nervous diseases;
• intestinal disorders;
• diseases of the kidneys and bladder of inflammatory origin;
• epilepsy;
• gout

In the form of douching, meadowsweet decoction is indicated for gynecological diseases.

1 tsp crushed dried raw materials are poured into two glasses of boiling water, boiled in a water bath for half an hour, after which the broth should be filtered and, diluted with boiled water, brought to the original volume. Take one tablespoon three times a day, after meals.

For douching, the decoction is prepared at the rate of 25 g of meadowsweet per liter of water.

Infusion

Meadowsweet infusion is indicated for the treatment of the following pathologies:

• rheumatism;
• gout;
• swelling;
• haemorrhoids;
• hernia;
• diarrhea;
• insomnia;
• suffocation;
• anemia;
• kidney and bladder diseases;
• inflammatory processes;
• mastopathy;
• erosion;
• infertility;
• postpartum complications;
• bleeding;
• psoriasis;
• hepatitis;
• leukemia;
• cancer of various localizations;
• gastrointestinal diseases.

Meadowsweet infusion reduces blood sugar levels, therefore it is used for diabetes.

To prepare the infusion, 1 tsp. meadowsweet rhizomes pour 250 ml cold - and most importantly, boiled water. The product is infused for about 8 hours, filtered and consumed throughout the day, in small sips.

Meadowsweet tea

Tea is brewed from the flowers of the plant, at the rate of one teaspoon per glass of boiling water. Infuse for five minutes. This drink is effective as a diuretic for nephritis, bladder diseases and stomach pain. In addition, this tea helps strengthen the immune system.

Meadowsweet ointment

This form of meadowsweet preparations is used primarily for the treatment of rheumatism and skin lesions. To prepare the ointment, you need 20 g of rhizomes, ground to a powder, mixed with 90 g of butter (you can use petroleum jelly or lanolin instead of butter). The ointment is rubbed into the joints affected by rheumatism (or into areas of the skin that require treatment) three to four times a day.

Contraindications

Meadowsweet preparations are contraindicated in the following conditions:

• chronic constipation (the plant has an astringent effect);
• tendency to hypotension (low blood pressure);
• poor blood clotting;
• thrombocytopathy (can cause bleeding);
• hypersensitivity to the plant.

Important! Before taking meadowsweet preparations, you must always consult with your doctor regarding the dosage and regimen of using the plant.

Meadowsweet during pregnancy

Meadowsweet, despite its low toxicity, belongs to the class of poisonous plants, therefore it is contraindicated during pregnancy. It is also not recommended for use by children under 12 years of age.

Recipes with meadowsweet

Hemostatic decoction

2 tsp Pour 300 ml of boiling water over dry meadowsweet roots, then leave the product in a boiling water bath for about half an hour. Then the broth is cooled at room temperature for about 10 minutes, filtered and drunk one-fourth of a glass three times a day (before eating).

This decoction has hemostatic, antitumor, sedative and anticonvulsant properties, due to which it is used in the treatment of tumors.

Decoction for leucorrhoea

The roots and flowers of the plant (20 g) are poured with a liter of boiling water, and then infused in an airtight container in a water bath for 30 minutes. The strained and cooled broth should be douched 2-3 times a day.

The same decoction, but more concentrated (2 tablespoons of raw material per 250 ml of boiling water), is used externally in the form of analgesic and anti-inflammatory compresses for various female diseases.

Infusion for diarrhea

1 tbsp. Pour a glass of boiling water over the rhizomatous tubers of meadowsweet, let it brew in a boiling bath for ten minutes, then leave the broth to steep for another two hours. Take a tablespoon four times a day, before eating.

Tincture for stomach diseases 3 tbsp. pour a liter of boiling water over the collection, close the lid tightly and let the product brew for two hours. Take this infusion one glass twice a day, 30 minutes before eating.

Recipes with meadowsweet - video

Before use, you should consult a specialist.

Many gardeners grow meadowsweet on their plots, of which there are about 15 varieties. The airy inflorescence smells like honey and has medicinal properties. They plant him in open ground seeds or rhizomes. Caring for the plant is quite simple: water it on time, apply fertilizer a couple of times.

Appearance, varietal diversity of meadowsweet

IN growing wild meadowsweet or meadowsweet are found along river banks, on the outskirts of swamps, since the plant is quite moisture-loving. Meadowsweet is a perennial herb with an erect, strong stem and belongs to the Rosaceae family.

Lace white or pink panicles exude a vanilla-honey aroma and bloom in early summer. Meadowsweet leaves are pinnate or palmate, wide. Ornamental varieties are planted in the garden, on summer cottage, in the flower beds. Although the plant reaches a height of 1 m, root system it’s small, so you don’t have to be afraid that it will “take over” the entire flowerbed. This is another reason why gardeners love to grow meadowsweet in their gardens.

For some reason, flies and mosquitoes do not like the smell of meadowsweet. And it attracts bees and wasps with its honey aroma, which ensures good pollination of cultivated plants.

There are several varieties of meadowsweet:

• palmate;

Meadowsweet

• narrow-bladed;
• shelomaynik;
• naked;

Meadowsweet naked

• Korean;
• six-petalled;
• purple;

Purple meadowsweet

• red (North American species);
• western.

Some of them can be seen in the photo. Ornamental varieties such as purple meadowsweet are grown in gardens. The flowers of this variety are bright red; after flowering ends, seeds of the same color are formed, which extends the decorative life. Lush flowers of double meadowsweet have White color. Meadowsweet blooms with soft pink buds.

Types of propagation and planting rules

Meadowsweet has two types of reproduction:

• seeds;
• rhizome.

Seeds can be purchased at a specialty store. Seeds are sown in spring and autumn.

Autumn sowing is carried out at home. Sow seeds in containers or boxes to a depth of 5-6 cm. Make sure the soil is constantly moist. Water often, but little by little. After two true leaves appear, the seedlings need to be transplanted into separate pots. In the spring, when the soil warms up, you can plant it in open ground.

If you decide to sow seeds in the spring, then you need to do this immediately in open ground. The sowing depth is about 5-6 cm, deeper is not recommended. Do not compact the soil after sowing the seeds. After the seedlings appear, they are transplanted into flower beds. Since meadowsweet will grow up to a meter in height, the distance between seedlings should be about half a meter.

In spring, meadowsweet can be sown directly into open ground.

Propagation by rhizomes can also be done in autumn and spring. To do this, carefully dig up the rhizome of the mother plant, divide it into required amount parts. The rhizome is planted to a depth of 5-7 cm, watered, the soil is not compacted, this way the meadowsweet will germinate faster.

Attention! The root is placed horizontally. Make sure that the buds of the young shoots are directed upwards.

Meadowsweet loves the sun, but not scorching rays. Choose a slightly shaded area. In dense shade, meadowsweet may not bloom. The soil should be light and neutral, with drainage. If the soil is heavy, add sand to the bottom of the hole; it will also serve as drainage. Acidic soil can be neutralized with lime.

Features of care: timing of fertilization, frequency of feeding, diseases and pests

Caring for meadowsweet is very easy. If you added humus or compost before planting, then within growing season It is enough to apply complex fertilizers a couple of times. If the soil has not been used for a long time, or autumn feeding, fertilizers can be applied once in the spring.

The soil around the seedling needs to be loosened from time to time. Watering should be frequent, but not abundant, to avoid waterlogging. Excess water in the soil can lead to the development of fungal diseases.

Attention! Do not allow the soil to dry out. Spiraea moisture-loving plant. Does not tolerate drought well.

Meadowsweet is not very susceptible to disease. Wild-growing specimens may be affected by rust and become covered powdery mildew. Ornamental varieties are almost disease free. Occasionally, ramulariasis may appear in the form of greenish spots. Fundazol or other fungicides are used against the disease.

Carry out preventive treatment of plants against diseases

Among the pests, aphids and tubeworms can cause particular damage. Insecticides are used to control insects. Can be used against aphids wood ash, infusion of garlic and onion.

Advice. It’s better to plant tall varieties of marigolds next to meadowsweet in the spring: it’s beautiful, and aphids won’t bother you.

With the onset of autumn, the stem is cut at a height of 5-6 cm. additional insulation the plant does not need it, as it is frost-resistant.

The use of meadowsweet in landscape design, combination with other plants

In landscape design, single and group plantings are used. Single planted meadowsweet can “dilute” too much bright design flower beds, as its shape resembles a cloud. It can be planted in the center of the flower bed, with low-growing flowers around the circumference. Group plantings can be planted in the background, this will create a hazy effect of pink or white.

Tall varieties of meadowsweet are used as, low-growing varieties - for framing flower beds, as borders. The height of the plant allows it to be used to divide the area into zones. For example, you can separate a gazebo, sandbox, etc. Meadowsweet is used in mixborders. The flower bed looks beautiful from different varieties meadowsweet

Meadowsweet looks great planted around the perimeter of a house or fence. You can design a path leading to the house; it will look not just beautiful, but solemn and elegant.

Meadowsweet in landscape design

In landscape design, meadowsweet goes well with ferns, lilies,. In combination with hydrangea you can create a picturesque fence. Meadowsweet is planted next to different varieties, . A combination of meadowsweet with different plants is used:

• Scabiosa caucasica;

08 Oct

Meadowsweet or meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmária)

Meadowsweet (meadowsweet) is an aromatic garden crop with beneficial properties used in the treatment of various diseases.

How often, when walking along summer forest glades or river banks, you catch a sweet honey aroma. It is published widely known species plants Meadowsweet from the genus Meadowsweet of the Rosaceae family. In nature, the herbaceous perennial Filipéndula ulmária is quite common in all corners of the country. Due to its beneficial properties, the plant is recognized as medicinal and is widely used in official medicine.

There are no more than 15 species in the genus, most of them are used as horticultural crops. A large number of hybrids with white, pink and purple flowers. The decorative honey plant, meadowsweet, is a great addition to any garden. Meadowsweet also has another name - meadowsweet. In any description, this plant will be accompanied by a reference to meadowsweet.

For them, there are similar growing rules and agricultural techniques for caring for a personal plot. All varieties and types of plants can be found on this page. Also useful and medicinal properties culture.

Look at the meadowsweet (meadowsweet) in the photo where everything is illustrated botanical features crops:

Meadowsweet can be used in landscape design personal plot

Lush white meadowsweet fills the garden with a delicate honey aroma during flowering.

Description of meadowsweet (with photo)

According to the description of meadowsweet in other Internet sources, these are perennial herbaceous shrubs growing from 60 to 150 cm. There are larger forms up to 2 meters in height and dwarfs (usually with double inflorescences) with stems no more than 40 cm long. The natural habitat is considered to be temperate zones of the northern hemisphere, here medicinal herbs grow on wet soils, for example, on the banks of ponds or grassy swamps.

The variety of forms is very large, some of them can be seen in the photo below:

Meadowsweet has another name - meadowsweet; it could be heard from grandmothers who often used the plant for recipes for health and beauty. The rhizome is creeping and very strong. It forms a ribbed, erect stem, 40 to 200 cm high. Over time, the shoots turn red and form apical racemose inflorescences, consisting of small buds. Meadowsweet grass is often feathery green leaf plates.

Unpretentious garden plant may have decorative leaves, for example, bronze color. Meadowsweet easily tolerates low temperatures and frosts, without detracting from the picturesque flowering, which usually lasts from mid-June to early August. From the first days of the last summer month, fruits are formed - multi-nuts.

Most species are used in folk and official medicine, but the greatest number of beneficial properties are contained in the herbs and flowers of the common and Kamchatka fennel.

Description of species, varieties of meadowsweet and their medicinal properties

There are only 15 species in the genus Meadowsweet, not many of them are used as a picturesque plant. Most inexperienced gardeners mistake meadowsweet for a weed, not even suspecting that this plant has a large number of species and varieties that differ in decorative and medicinal properties. Let's look at their descriptions and photos further.

The most common meadowsweet in Russia is the meadowsweet; it received this name for the similarity of the leaf blade to an elm leaf. These are tall herbaceous plants with shoots up to 120 cm in length. Most often, crops are found with small white buds with a yellow tint, collected in densely double racemose inflorescences. Meadowsweet is one of the best honey plants; during the flowering period, which occurs in June-July, the plant produces a huge amount of pollen and nectar. The bright honey aroma attracts many insects.

Even if you just walk past the meadowsweet and shake it, we will see how the pollen scatters into different sides. The organs of this type of plant contain a large amount of useful enzymes and substances, thanks to which they are used as an anti-inflammatory and bactericidal agent. Decoctions from parts of meadowsweet are recommended for diseases of the genitourinary system.

Along with the medicinal properties, the decorative properties of some varieties are also highly valued, namely:

• "Aurea" is an ornamental foliage crop. To maintain the beauty of the bronze basal leaves, it is recommended to cut off the flower stalks at the embryonic stage;
• "Rosea" - pink meadowsweet with small flowers in racemes;
• "Variegata" is another variety with decorative leaves;
• "Plena" is a large herbaceous shrub with double white inflorescences.

The largest number of different hybrids and varieties is found under the guise of Common meadowsweet or Six-petaled meadowsweet. These are perennial rhizomatous herbs, up to 80-120 cm in height. The feathery leaves often do not have decorative value and are collected in powerful basal rosettes. The flowers are observed from the beginning of June to the end of July, small white, consisting of 6 petals. The rhizome of the common meadowsweet contains a large amount of starch; there are many useful medicinal recipes based on it. Meadowsweet flowers can be used as a tea substitute; in production they act as a flavoring agent for beer and wine drinks. There are large-flowered and double (up to 40 cm in height) forms of the plant.

Pink meadowsweet – purple meadowsweet

As a garden plant, the most picturesque is the pink meadowsweet, originally from Japan. This species is commonly called purple meadowsweet. Its stems are no more than 1 m long; they bear palmate leaf plates. At the tops of the shoots, small buds of a crimson or dark pink hue bloom, collected in double racemose inflorescences. Purple meadowsweet blooms for a long time, taking up to two months from the beginning of June. Most Popular garden variety"Elegance" with raspberry buds.

The most frost-resistant specimen, which can withstand temperatures down to -35 degrees, is Red Meadowsweet, native to the North of America. These are powerful herbaceous shrubs, growing from 1.5 to 2.5 meters. Large leaves at the tip they are dissected into 5-7 lobes, which makes the plant even more picturesque. Pink flowers are collected in very dense paniculate inflorescences, even the fruits have decorative value due to their bright crimson color. The most famous variety of Red meadowsweet is “Venusta”, with an average height of 2 meters.

Palm meadowsweet

Palm-shaped meadowsweet with decorative foliage that resembles a human palm is also often grown in gardens. Average height plants up to 100 cm. The leaf plate from the bottom has gray felt pubescence. The inflorescences of this species are very large and can reach 25 cm in length; there are many varieties with pink buds. The largest garden specimen is considered to be Kamchatka meadowsweet; such herbaceous perennials form dense bushes up to 3 meters high with powerful basal foliage up to 40 cm in diameter.

Growing and planting meadowsweet

Meadowsweet or meadowsweet is very easy to propagate and grow after planting in open ground. In order to get a new plant for your garden, you can use seed propagation. Planting material is bought in flower shops. When purchasing it, make sure to buy a plant that will easily take root in the climatic conditions where you live. There are many hybrids that are not able to withstand winter frosts, and meadowsweet blooms only in the second year of life, therefore, planting it will be pointless. Please also note that F1 cultivars are sterile; the plant you like can be propagated only by dividing the bush or rhizome.

Purchased seeds should not be older than 5 years, since by this time meadowsweet loses its germination capacity. Prematurely soak the planting material and keep it in a humid environment for at least 24 hours. Seeds are sown in late autumn, before winter, so that they can undergo natural stratification. Initially, meadowsweet is grown as “seedlings” in a shaded bed; after the plantings in the spring reach a height of 10-15 cm, they can be transplanted permanently sunny place. To grow everyone decorative species In addition to common meadowsweet, moist soils are preferred. Seeds are sown in grooves to a depth of approximately 0.5 -1 cm. Keep a distance of at least 15 cm between grooves.

Dividing the rhizome is necessary for “older” plants, when the meadowsweet will germinate in one place for at least 5 years. The mother plant is dug up and its root is divided so that each division has 2-3 vegetative buds. Planting material can be planted in holes to a depth of 10-15 cm, at a distance of at least 0.5 meters from each other. It is better to do this in April-May, when the plant is before the start of active growth; it is easier for such plantings to take root in a new place.

Caring for meadowsweet

Meadowsweet is also quite unpretentious in terms of care. The main thing for ornamental crops maintain soil moisture. Only six-petalled meadowsweet requires light, dry soil. As for the soil, it should under no circumstances be acidic. Neutral or slightly acidic sandy loam soil mixtures or loam are suitable for growing meadowsweet. Almost all species can withstand short-term drought. For them (we exclude common appearance) requires frequent, abundant watering.

To maintain soil moisture, gardeners prefer to plant the plant on coastline natural or artificial reservoirs. Mulching is acceptable. The bush must be divided as it grows, no more than once every three years. Typically, flower growers carry out this procedure 5-6 years after planting.

Representatives of some species, especially tall ones, require formative pruning of shoots - this provokes an increase in the growth of green mass and inflorescences. Weeding and light loosening of the soil will also have a good effect on the development of young and adult plants. Diseases and pests rarely affect meadowsweet, the only thing that can occur is fungus and root rot when there is stagnant moisture in the soil with plantings of common meadowsweet.

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Meadowsweet or meadowsweet

I happened to hear the following words from my grandmother-herbalist: “meadowsweet cures 40 diseases.” There is a belief that meadowsweet was called meadowsweet by hunters because it served them as a shelter - a storage shed - to track down ducks. Meadowsweet has been widely used in folk medicine since ancient times. It blooms for quite a long time from June to the end of July, and at this time the panicle tops with a small number of leaves were plucked. In villages and now in many bathhouses you will see brooms made of dry grass, meadowsweet.

Meadowsweet flowers exude the most delicate aroma of honey, vanilla, and almonds. From the end of June to the end of July, hardworking bees buzz over the white fluffy panicles of meadowsweet flowers. The flower consists of small white or light cream five petals.

You need to pay attention to how to recognize meadowsweet, because it differs from other species - for example, six-petalled meadowsweet has spherical thickenings on its rhizomes (hence the name: meadowsweet groundnuts). That's two different types meadowsweet. And they also differ in their effect on the body. Meadowsweet - perennial herbaceous plant up to 2 meters high. The stem is ribbed, the leaves are alternate pinnately compound, large, dark green above and white-tomentose below. The lobules of each leaf are ovate-lanceolate, sharp, serrated along the edge. The fruit is a composite achene, consisting of spirally twisted achenes. The rhizome is creeping. In meadowsweet it is without thickenings.

Where can you find meadowsweet? It can be found along river banks, in marshy and flooded meadows, in grassy swamps in forests, in wetlands middle zone Russia, Altai, the Urals, Far East.

The herb meadowsweet contains essential oils, glycosides gaultherin, spirein, heliotropin, vanillin, terpein, tannins, vitamin C, wax,

fats. The flowers contain essential oil, the phenolic glycoside spirein, and the rhizome contains the glycoside gaultherin, which is broken down upon hydrolysis to form

irritant salicylic acid methyl ester (methyl salicylate).

In our folk medicine, meadowsweet is used as:

1. astringent for diarrhea,
2. sweatshop,
3. diuretic,
4. choleretic,
5. restorative,
6. stimulating immunity,
7. soothing,
8. antisclerotic,
9. antiscorbutic,
10. anti-inflammatory,
11. painkiller,
12. bactericidal,
13. antiseptic.

This herb is the most natural healer!

Meadowsweet seed tincture in folk medicine it is used for rehabilitation treatment after stroke.

Composition and preparation: 2 teaspoons of meadowsweet seeds, pour 1/2 cup of vodka, let it brew for 14 days in a dark, cool place. Shake daily. Strain. Take 1 dessert spoon in water 3 times a day with meals. The course is 21 days, then a break of at least 7 days.

In folk medicine, meadowsweet is widely used used for:

• pyelonephritis,
• cystitis,
• for swelling,
• rheumatism,
• gout,
• colds, flu, herpes,
• herpes zoster,
• in gynecology in the treatment of infertility, endometriosis, erosions, thrush (in the form of douching)

Cooking water infusion of meadowsweet ( it is suitable both internally and for douching): 4 teaspoons of meadowsweet herb are poured with 1 glass of boiling water, boiled in a water bath for 15 minutes, filtered. Take 1 tablespoon 3 times a day orally.

The famous Bulgarian pharmacologist V. Petkov spoke very well about the medicinal properties of meadowsweet; he recommended a water infusion of meadowsweet for gout and edema. In Russia, V.I. Dubin studied meadowsweet. He recommended using meadowsweet for herpes zoster, herpes, influenza, acute respiratory infections, in the complex treatment of viral hepatitis and pancreatitis.

In folk medicine of Siberia and now an infusion of the herb meadowsweet with flowers is used for heart disease, tachycardia, suffocation, as well as migraines and headaches V in the form of tea: 1 tablespoon of meadowsweet flowers and leaves per 0.5 liter of boiling water, let it brew, drink like tea.

The optimal dose of meadowsweet per day is 3 grams of crushed dry herbs with flowers.

Meadowsweet is used as antitoxic agent up to the treatment of alcohol poisoning, as well as snake bites.

Used in these cases rich infusion of flowers: Pour 2 teaspoons of dried flowers into 1 glass of boiling water, leave for 20 minutes and take 2 tablespoons 6 times a day.

Externally, the same infusion of meadowsweet herb is used for the treatment of wounds, pustules, acne, boils, psoriasis, as well as for the treatment of burns, Besides to improve hair growth, in the form of enemas for hemorrhoids, in the form of douching for gynecological diseases.

In Tsarist Russia, zemstvo doctors successfully treated rheumatism of the joints meadowsweet. At the same time, an infusion of the herb with flowers was used internally and an ointment made from meadowsweet flowers in lard or badger lard was rubbed into the affected joints.

Preparation ointments : an ointment is prepared at the rate of 1 part of well-crushed meadowsweet flowers and 5 parts of a fat base. Pre-melt the fat and mix thoroughly with meadowsweet flower powder.

In this case, meadowsweet flowers must be ground into a fine powder and ground with an equal part of fat or petroleum jelly. You will get an ointment.

Oil from herbs and meadowsweet flowers, prepared at home, used in folk medicine to reduce temperature, relieve migraine and headaches, for the treatment of radiculitis, osteochondrosis, rheumatic pain, for joint and muscle pain, for the treatment of colds.

Making meadowsweet oil at home: Pour 50 grams of chopped meadowsweet herb with olive or sunflower oil so as to cover all the grass, mix. Leave in a dark place for 14 days. Strain. At the beginning, you can heat it in a water bath, but do not boil it.

How to use meadowsweet oil:

• rub into a sore spot,
• massage with meadowsweet oil,
• add to shower gel or bathing foam,
• Apply to the aroma lamp for colds.

Contraindications for taking meadowsweet are:

• individual intolerance,
• intestinal atony, tendency to constipation,
• hypotension, low blood pressure,
• low platelet count,
• pregnancy.

For medicinal purposes, the grass and flowers are collected during flowering. Dry in dark room. Shelf life 3 years.

Six-petalled meadowsweet - you need to be able to distinguish

There are about 15 species of meadowsweet in nature. In Russia, the most common are meadowsweet, six-petalled meadowsweet (groundnuts), common meadowsweet, palmate meadowsweet, and Kamchatka meadowsweet. Meadowsweet and six-petalled meadowsweet are widely used in folk medicine.

Six-petalled meadowsweet grows in meadows, forest edges, clearings in central Russia, in Altai, the Urals, and the Far East. This is a perennial herbaceous plant, 30-80 cm high, with an oblique rhizome, its roots are thin, with tuberous, spindle-shaped or almost spherical thickenings. Hence the name - ground nuts. The stem is erect, ribbed, almost leafless at the top. The basal leaves are larger, discontinuously pinnately complex, with numerous up to 20 pairs of deep serrated lobules, between which are located smaller leaves; the stem leaves are smaller with fewer lobules. The leaves are green on both sides, glabrous above, slightly hairy along the veins below. The flowers are regular, white-pink, small, collected at the top of the stem in a fluffy panicle. The aroma of the flowers is pleasant, fragrant, honey-almond.

The fruit is a collective achene. Blooms in June.

Unlike meadowsweet six-petalled meadowsweet grows in dry, light forest edges and clearings.

Chemical composition nodules of “ground nuts” contain up to 36% tannins. They have an antioxidant, anticancer effect, an astringent effect (for diarrhea), and a hemostatic effect.

The leaves contain the glycoside gaultherin, which hydrolyzes to release salicylic aldehyde. This determines anti-inflammatory, analgesic, anti-edematous effect. A small amount of ascorbic acid is found in the leaves. Found flavonoids, phenol compounds, phenylcarboxylic acids, catechins, essential oils, glycosides, fatty acid, wax The chemical composition explains the application.

Previously, the rhizome with roots was used in scientific medicine as part of the Zdrenko collection.

In folk medicine, the herb is used as hemostatic (unlike meadowsweet), antihemorrhoidal, astringent, as well as for stomach pain, and nodules in the complex treatment of leukemia and blood diseases, for immunostimulation in oncology.

The grass is harvested during flowering. Shelf life 3 years.

The rhizome with roots is dug up when the snow melts (March, April) or in September-October. Rinse the rhizome and roots quickly, thoroughly, and cut into thin strips. Dry in a well-ventilated area or outside under a canopy. The finished raw materials are:

rhizomes - whole or cut, uneven, tuberculate, up to 10 cm long, up to 1.5 cm thick, dark brown, pinkish when broken;

the roots are thin, cylindrical with thickenings in the middle part, longitudinally wrinkled, up to 15 cm long. The smell is characteristic, the taste is bitter and astringent.

A decoction of the roots of six-petalled meadowsweet is used in folk medicine in oncology of various localizations, as well as for blood diseases and leukemia.

Decoction recipe: pour 2 teaspoons of crushed roots into an enamel bowl with 1 cup of boiling water, cook in a water bath for 35 minutes, let it brew. Strain.

pharmacist-herbalist Sorokina Vera Vladimirovna

Life is surprisingly complicated - our ancestors ate coarse bread and dreamed of white, but we refuse white, buying bran buns in eco-shops. Our ancestors ate fruits, not being able to afford chocolate or candy boxes - but we prefer dried fruits, nuts and berries.

This is how it is now with the landscape of the yard: instead of roses and clematis, my mother and I (and many of our friends) began to grow plants that were previously considered weeds. Red plantain, whining, garden quinoa... We especially like the variegated meadowsweet.

Firstly, the plant blooms for a long time and luxuriantly - and it smells amazing! Secondly, it can be intelligently and beautifully used in landscape design. And thirdly, it is considered healing (I will talk about this in more detail below).

According to herbalists, meadowsweet cures almost 40 diseases. So if you grow mint and mint at home, then meadowsweet will also have a place in your medicinal bed.

Finally, meadowsweet is believed to drive away mosquitoes from the area. Thanks to this, in ancient times, grass collected in bunches was hung in stores. Now it will delight people who love to have dinner in their yard in the summer. And how the beekeepers respect him!

But remember: it's still a weed!

If you do not monitor the planted plant, mercilessly cutting off all its attempts to expand into the flower beds, you will soon notice that the bush has begun to show very bad manners, that is, it is simply weeding in the yard, trying to penetrate other beds, not only yours, but also your neighbors’. . So don’t spare the beautiful plant, weed out all the “babies”!

Types of decorative meadowsweet

My favorite is the variegated meadowsweet with yellowish spots on the leaves. But in general, all types of meadowsweet are interesting. Therefore, I have collected photos of all the popular species for you, and you can choose for yourself which flowers would look best in your yard.

IN wildlife There are as many as 25 species of meadowsweet. We grow much less, but there is no need to go to the river for seeds - seeds of many varieties are offered in flower shops.

• Common (six-petalled, vulgaris). A meter-long grass whose flowers bloom earlier than all its “brothers” - in May. When the petals fall, the panicles turn into berries - elongated and also decorative. This is an almost indestructible species; it doesn’t even need a lot of moisture. The only thing that can destroy the common meadowsweet is acidic soil. By the way, this plant is most often used as a medicine.

• Terry. The most famous variety is Plena (“height” 60 cm). The flowers of this plant do not turn into fruits (berries), so the plant reproduces only by division.

• Elm-leaved (whitehead, ulmaria). In the first weeks of July, these one and a half meter herbs bloom near rivers, although there are many ornamental varieties, including variegated ones. Up to 8 umbrellas open on the plant at a time. The grass multiplies very quickly, since its roots have dozens of buds, ready to grow more and more new stems. The only thing that can destroy this winter-hardy meadowsweet is dry areas. This plant also has uses in folk medicine.

• Variegata (variegata). Decorative varieties of the previous type of meadowsweet.

• Palmate (palmata). The plant quickly fills the territory given to it, so it is often used to combat unwanted weeds that there is simply no time to weed out. Blooms from June to July, flowers are white or pink. The stem height is from 60 cm to a meter, depending on the variety.

• Kamchatsky (shelomaynik). This giant can grow 3 meters up. The flowers are small, cream or white. It blooms in June, after which it pleases the owners of the site with small fruits decorated with eyelashes. Loves moist areas, which can be located both in the sun and in light partial shade.

• Red. Even a house can hide in these bushes - red meadowsweet can reach up to 230 cm (although there is also a pygmy 30-centimeter variety). This plant is not afraid of frost, but is sensitive to a lack of light and water. Flowers can please you in July-August. When the flowers fall (curiously, they are often not red, but deep pink), bright crimson fruits remain on the bushes, which are also very beautiful.

• Purple. A meter-long hybrid with palmate leaves, which came to us from Japan. It blooms for a long time - from the first weeks of June to mid-August. It is curious, but some varieties of this meadowsweet (namely Alba and Elegance) have flowers that are not pink, but white.

Planting this crop

• Site selection. It is advisable to choose a sunny, open place. Most species will do well in partial shade, but in such conditions the flowers on meadowsweet will not bloom as brightly. If you have a stream or pond on your site, it is better to “attach” the meadowsweet on the shore, so it will have access to water. No? If possible, choose a site in a low area.
• Priming. First of all, meadowsweet doesn’t like acidic soil. Neutral or slightly acidic soil is suitable for her. As for the structure of the soil, it should be loose. Meadowsweet requires that the area under it be constantly moistened, but not turn into a swamp, that is, do not allow water to stagnate.
• Place in the landscape design of the yard. This plant can bloom under the canopy of trees, where other flowers “do not want” to take root. They also beautifully decorate the edges of lawns, mixborders, and hedges. Good partners In the flowerbed for meadowsweet there will be other varieties of meadowsweet, as well as loosestrife, yellow iris, Siberian iris, perennial flax, and daylily. All these plants equally love non-acidic soils and frequent watering.

Your actions immediately after landing

Add lime or wood ash to the flower bed.

It is advisable to support tall stems. Even if they stretch exclusively upward, after the lush panicles of flowers bloom, the tops of the stems will become heavy and may droop unsightly, or even lie on the flowerbed.

Water the flowers often, without letting the soil underneath them dry out completely.

Subtleties of caring for established meadowsweet

• Meadowsweet can be fed, although this is not necessary. You can use like mineral mixtures, and organics. All this nutrition should be applied during the active growth of meadowsweet.
• From time to time, loosen the soil in the garden bed and remove weeds (but more often, meadowsweet itself copes with these enemies, drowning them out).
• At the end of August or beginning of September, prune the bushes. Not yet complete, just remove unsightly protruding branches and dry panicles of former flowers.
• Before the arrival of cold weather, cut off the flower stems almost completely (leaving only 6-8 cm of stumps). Cover this plant in central lane no need.

Reproduction of meadowsweet

Depending on the species, meadowsweet can reproduce either by seeds (if berries grow on it after the flowers - an exception to this general rule only terry meadowsweet is considered), or dividing a bush.

Seeds

• They can be collected at home, in nature, or bought as varieties in a store.
• They are sown either directly into the ground (in the fall after harvesting or in the spring, after stratification), or in advance for seedlings.
• The “guys” have a dense shell, so they need to be helped to sprout by soaking for a day before placing them in the ground. And not necessarily in water - it can also be a solution of a growth stimulator.
• Before sowing, the soil needs to be watered. Meadowsweet loves water even at the “larval” stage.
• Distance between future bushes in the flowerbed: from 10 to 15 cm.

This meadowsweet will bloom in its second year of life. For the first winter, it is better to cover it from frost, since it is still tender.

When growing seedlings, the seeds are scattered over the surface of a moist substrate without sprinkling them. It is better to germinate them under a greenhouse in light shade.

As soon as you see the seedlings, remove the greenhouse (piece of glass, bag), water the babies more often, and 15 days later, plant them in separate cups or pots.

Sowing time for seedlings: the first months of April. In this case, by the end of May (and if you have a cold climate, then by the beginning of June) you will receive strong seedlings ready for transshipment into open ground. Leave half a meter between bushes. Deepen the seedlings into the soil by 5 cm.

Dividing the bush

In the fall, water the old, overgrown bush well (it must be at least five years old). Dig it out. A bush can be divided not only into 2 parts - depending on the situation, one plant can produce 4 or even 6 bushes. Immediately transfer them to prepared holes, fertilized and fluffed with sand and peat.

The seedlings deepen by 5 cm. Do not trample the ground around it, it should be light and soft.

Why it’s worth collecting: the benefits of lungwort

The plant is used not only in folk medicine, but also in cooking. Leaves, flowers and even a stem - everything can be used. And how fragrant the tea made from meadowsweet is, they even sell it in pharmacies!

But! I do not recommend planting the entire yard with these flowers if you are allergic, since some people do not like the pollen of this honey plant. In general, the plant has almost no contraindications.

The only thing is that it should not be consumed in “bags”, as it can result in constipation and mild nausea.

An experienced herbalist will tell you more about the beneficial properties and use of this plant in folk medicine: