MEADOWSWEET
Meadowsweet is one of the best antacid remedies for acid indigestion, heartburn, gastritis, peptic ulcers, and hiatus hernia. Meadowsweet relieves wind and distension and should be thought of in any inflammatory condition of the stomach or bowels. The tannins have an astringent action in the bowels, protecting and healing the mucous membranes and relieving enteritis and diarrhea; its mild antiseptic action combats infection and its relaxant properties soothe griping and colic. The medicinal virtues of meadowsweet are very similar to those of aspirin, but without the side effects. Its additional tannins and mucilage protect the gastric lining, making it valuable for healing gastritis and gastric ulceration. For aches and pains, rheumatism, arthritis and gout, meadowsweet has an anti-inflammatory action which relieves swollen joints, and diuretic properties which help eliminate toxic wastes and uric acid from the system. Meadowsweet also has an analgesic effect, helping to soothe pain, as well as relieve headaches and neuralgia. Its relaxant properties release spasm and induce restful sleep. Its diaphoretic action helps reduce fevers and eruptive infections such as measles and chickenpox. The cleansing diuretic effect has given meadowsweet a reputation for clearing the skin and resolving rashes. Given its mild antiseptic action it makes a good remedy for cystitis and urethritis, fluid retention and kidney problems. The salicylate salts are said to soften deposits in the body such as kidney stones and gravel, as well as atherosclerosis in the arteries. PARTS USED Aerial parts, flowers. USES Early European uses - Meadowsweet was one of the most sacred herbs of the Druids, although whether it was& used as a medicine is not known. It has been a longstanding folk remedy in much of Europe. Nicholas Culpeper wrote in 1652 that "it helpeth speedily those that are troubled with the cholic being boiled in wine; and stayeth the flux on the belly." Neutralizing acid - Meadowsweet is a remedy for acid indigestion, helping to heal and to reduce acidity. Its ability to reduce acid levels throughout the body is not established, but its effectiveness in painful arthritic and rheumatic problems is probably not due entirely to its anti-inflammatory action. It would seem that reducing acidity within the stomach can help to reduce acid levels in the body as a whole, thereby helping joint problems (which are associated with acidity). Meadowsweet is also occasionally used for cystitis. Digestive remedy - Meadowsweet is a safe remedy for diarrhea, even in children, and is used with other herbs for irritable bowel syndrome.
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