Melilot

Melilotus officinalis

Common name: Melilot

Family: Fabaceae

Part used: Flowering aerial parts, dried carefully

Habitat: Melilot is commonly found in woods and meadows, and is a member of the pea family (fabiaceae). It has small yellow flowers with a pleasant sweetish smell. Upon drying melilot develops a coumarin-like odour, reminiscent of haystacks in the late summer.

Folklore and History: 

Constituents: The main characteristic constituents are coumarin derivatives such as melilotiside. It should be noted that if melilot is allowed to decay before drying the coumarins can convert to dicoumarol, which is a potent anticoagulent (warfarin). Properly dried melilot does not contain any dicoumarol.

Actions: Carminative, spasmolytic

Traditional and current uses:

• Coumarins in general are anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, and tonic to the venous and lymphatic vessels. They are a feature of plants traditionally used to treat conditions such as oedema, varicose veins and haemorrhoids.
• The main therapeutic uses of melilot are symptomatic treatment of problems relating to varicose veins, such as painful, heavy legs, nocturnal cramps in the legs, itching and swelling. It is used very much as an adjunctive treatment for thrombophlebitis, post thrombotic syndrome, and lymphostasis - disorders arising from chronic venous insufficiency.

Disclaimer: The information on this website is provided for educational use only, and is not intended as a replacement for the services of a qualified medical herbalist, doctor or licensed health practitioner. The information contained herein is not diagnostic, always consult a medical health professional before embarking on a treatment programme. Urban Fringe Dispensary disclaims any liability, loss, injury or damage incurred as a consequence of the use and application of the advice given herein