Self-Heal - Prunella vulgaris

Prunella vulgaris, known as self-heal or heal-all, is an annual herbaceous flowering plant in the mint family. It is native to temperate climates around the world. The tops and leaves are edible and can be used in salads and sauces. It grows in rich, moist soil in partially sunny locations and favors trail and woodland edges.

It is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine and by indigenous peoples and has many healthful properties. It contains the phytochemicals betulinic acid, D-camphor, D-fenchone, cyanidin, delphinidin, hyperoside, lauric acid, oleanolic acid, rosmarinic acid, myristic acid, rutin, linoleic acid, ursolic acid, beta-sitosterol, lupeol, and tannins.

Studies have shown that P. vulgaris has antibiotic properties, is anti-tumor, antiviral, antioxidant, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, antihypertensive, lipid-lowering, free-radical scavenging, hepatoprotective, sedative, and contains a compound (ursolic acid) that is believed to increase urination and fight tumors. It is used to lower fevers and treat boils, headaches, and mouth ulcers. Its wide range of benefits are often attributed to its many polyphenols. ¹

 It is known to be a phytoremediator of heavy metals, so it should not be gathered from roadsides or areas where pollution is a concern.

Tincture dosing is 20-30 drops up to three times a day. Start slowly as allergies and intolerances are always possible.

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose or treat any illness.

¹ Pan, Junying, Haoyu Wang, and Yinghua Chen. "Prunella vulgaris L.–a review of its ethnopharmacology, phytochemistry, quality control and pharmacological effects." Frontiers in Pharmacology 13 (2022): 903171.