Self Heal (Prunella vulgaris) is a low-growing, herbaceous perennial reaching a height of 10-30 cm. It spreads by creeping roots, making it an excellent ground cover option. The plant features short leaf stalks (5 cm long) with opposite-paired leaves on sturdy, square-shaped, reddish stems.
Medicinal & Traditional Uses
Traditionally brewed as a medicinal tea to support relief from sore throats, fevers, wounds, internal bleeding, and liver or heart weakness.
Used in Chinese herbal medicine for managing chronic conditions.
Contains tannins that may help reduce skin swelling, inflammation, and provide an astringent effect.
Active compounds include betulinic acid, rosmarinic acid, myristic acid, and tannins.
Rich in vitamins A, C, K, and thiamine.
In medieval times, knights carried Self Heal leaves to treat wounds, believing in its powerful healing properties.
Culinary Uses
Slightly minty in flavor, it can be added to salads, stews, soups, and herbal teas.
Used by Native American tribes like the Cherokee, who cooked the young leaves, and the Nlakapamux, who brewed a cold tea infusion from the whole plant.
Growing Information
Easy to grow from seed with propagation instructions included.
Thrives in well-drained soil with access to sunlight or partial shade.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only. Please consult a healthcare professional before using Self Heal for medicinal purposes.
