Prunella vulgaris

Prunella vulgaris, commonly known as self-heal, heal-all, or allheal, is a herbaceous plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North America, and it is present elsewhere, including New Zealand and Australia, as an introduced species.

Description

Prunella vulgaris is a low-growing perennial plant with creeping stems up to 45 cm long, which bear two-lipped, tubular purple flowers. The leaves are opposite, ovate, and have a serrated margin. The plant prefers moist soils and can be found in a variety of habitats, including grasslands, open forests, and disturbed areas.

Uses

Prunella vulgaris has a long history of use in traditional medicine. The plant has been used to treat a variety of ailments, including wounds, inflammation, and gastrointestinal disorders. Modern research has investigated its potential for treating diseases such as cancer and herpes.

Culinary uses

The young leaves and stems of Prunella vulgaris can be eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The plant has a slightly bitter taste and is rich in vitamins and minerals.

Medicinal uses

In traditional medicine, Prunella vulgaris is often used as a remedy for inflammation and wounds. The plant is known to contain a variety of bioactive compounds, including phenolic acids, flavonoids, and tannins, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties.

Cultivation

Prunella vulgaris is a hardy plant that can tolerate a range of conditions. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can grow in both full sun and partial shade. The plant is propagated by seeds, cuttings, or division.

See also

• List of culinary herbs and spices
• List of plants used in herbalism