Condition
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tea as a douche
Lady’s Mantle
(Alchemilla vulgaris)
Also know as Alder buckthorn
Botanical Information
A low growing meadow plant and garden plant in the Rose family with yellowish-green flowers and large circular folded leaves.
Working with Lady’s Mantle
Part(s) Used
Herb
Herb Forms
Tincture, capsule, bulk herb for tea
Christopher Hobbs:
“Lady’s mantle is a popular women’s herb used for such complaints as cramps, heavy menstruation, and menopause. It is used internally for diarrhea and as a douche for leukorrea and vaginitis. Externally, lady’s mantle serves as a wash for cuts and burns.
It has also been used topically in traditional medicine for leukorrhea and vulval itching.
Lady’s Mantle has a taste of BITTER, ASTRINGENT and a temperature of NEUTRAL.”
Historical Uses
Lady’s mantle has been used for centuries in European folk medicine, primarily for gynecological issues like heavy menstruation, menstrual pain, and to assist in wound healing due to its astringent properties. It was also believed to have magical properties, with the plant’s dew considered useful for alchemical purposes, hence its Latin name “Alchemilla.”
Modern Clinical Uses
Today, herbalists and naturopaths commonly recommend lady’s mantle for female reproductive health issues, especially for managing menstrual irregularities, reducing menstrual cramps, and supporting uterine health. It is sometimes used topically for skin issues like acne or inflammation due to its mild anti-inflammatory and astringent effects.
Chemistry and Pharmacology
Lady’s mantle contains tannins, flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), salicylic acid, and various polyphenols. These compounds contribute to its astringent, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. Tannins, in particular, are believed to tighten tissues and reduce bleeding, which supports its historical use in wound care and managing menstrual flow.
Clinical Trials
Although modern research is limited, a few small-scale studies suggest potential benefits in treating heavy menstrual bleeding and inflammation. However, more robust clinical trials are needed to substantiate these uses and determine efficacy and safety more thoroughly.
In summary, lady’s mantle is a historically significant herb with potential applications in women’s health, though its modern therapeutic use is primarily based on traditional knowledge rather than extensive clinical evidence.
Generated by ChatGPT; edited by Christopher Hobbs
Cautions
Generally regarded as safe when used appropriately, lady’s mantle may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort in sensitive individuals. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are typically advised to avoid it due to limited safety data. As it may influence blood clotting, caution is also advised for individuals on blood-thinning medications.
Conditions treated with Lady’s Mantle
Condition
Treatment Support
Application
Condition
Treatment Support
astringent
Application
tea, tincture
Condition
Treatment Support
uterine tonic
Application
tincture, tea, capsule
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
