Melilotus officinalis
Melilot tea can be used for treatment of mild symptoms. Two teaspoons of the finely chopped herb to a small pot, steeped for ten minutes. One cup two or three times a day.
Do not use if taking blood thinning medication such as warfarin and aspirin.
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
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
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