Smallflower Willowherb

Epilobium parviflorum

Common name: Smallflower willowherb, hoary willowherb

Family: Onagraceae

Part used: Aerial parts

Habitat and Description: Smallflower willowherb is abundant in Britain and much of Europe, it grows to 30-80cm standing erect with a stem covered in small hairs particularly in the lower parts. The leaves are opposite and lanceolate with a single terminal pink or pale purple flower about 6-7mm wide and apprearing in July-August. This plant prefers moist soil, marshes, the margins of waterways and damp meadows. 

Constituents: Tannins (4-14%), flavonoids including kaempferol, quercetin, myricetin, arabinoside, phenolic acids and derivatives, steroids, triterpenes, linoleic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, eicosenoic acid, behenic acid, arachidic acid

Actions: Antiprostatic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, astringent, antioxidant

Traditional and current uses:

Chronic prostate disorders:

• Obstruction of urination by the prostate
• Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
• Irritable bladder relating to prostate problems
• Benign prostatic hypertrophy
• Inflammation in the urinary tract such as nocturia (night time urination), frequent daytime urination, lack of complete emptying

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