Wood avens

What is wood avens?

This British native long has been associated with Christianity since its three leaves and five-petaled flowers are thought to represent the Trinity and the five wounds of the crucified Christ.

In ancient times wood avens was employed to treat wounds from rabid dogs and venomous snakes.

What does it do?

Every aerial and buried portion of this herb is astringent, making it a useful medicine for afflictions of the mouth, throat and intestinal tract.

A wash made from this botanical can be applied to the skin to remove spots and freckles. The freshly dug root imparts a pleasant scent reminiscent of cloves.

When dried, it can be placed in linen cupboards to repel moths.

About the herb

This hardy perennial stands 18 inches tall and displays its lovely yellow flowers from June through August. Its tender leaves are edible, as is its spice-scented root-stock.

Recommended dosage

Add 1/2 ounce of the powdered root to two cups of boiled water and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and sip a few cups daily to tighten spongy gums and heal mouth ulcers. This brew also assists with diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome.