Meadowsweet
Filipendula ulmaria
Also known as Bridewort and Queen-of-the-Meadow
History: Meadowsweet is a fragrant, well known wild flower that can be found in damp meadows, ditches and bogs, at the edges of ponds, on river banks and in damp open woodlands throughout Europe, as well as, the eastern United States and Canada. Historically, Meadowsweet was used as a remedy for fever-driven ailments. In 1835, it was discovered that Meadowsweet contained salicylic acid, a important ingredient in aspirin.
Modern Uses: The Commission E approved the internal use of meadowsweet as supportive therapy for colds.
The British Herbal Compendium indicates its use for atonic and acid dyspepsia, gastritis, peptic ulceration, and rheumatic and arthritic pains (Bradley, 1992). In France, traditional indications for use are allowed, including for fever and influenza. The German Standard License for meadowsweet tea indicates its use for feverish common colds for which a sweat treatment is desired and also to increase the amount of urine.
Warning: Use in persons with sensitivity to aspirin or other salicylate containing drugs is cautioned. Use in persons with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency is cautioned
Uses: colds, bronchitis, upset stomach, heartburn, peptic ulcer disease, and joint disorders including gout. It is also used to increase urine output and kill germs in the urine of people with bladder infections.
Active Ingredients: Salicylates, tannins, citric acid
Actions: Aromatic, astringent, diuretic, anti-rheumatic