Purple Loosestrife (Lythrum salicaria)

How to consume Purple Loosestrife and why?

Purple loosestrife is an astringent herb that is mainly employed as a treatment for diarrhea and dysentery. It can be safely taken by people of all ages and has been used to help arrest diarrhea in breast-feeding babies. It can also be used to treat heavy periods and inter-menstrual bleeding. Modern research has shown the whole plant to be antibiotic and to be particularly effective against the micro-organism that causes typhus. The flowering plant is antibiotic, highly astringent, hypoglycemic, styptic and vulnerary. It is valued as an intestinal disinfectant, especially in cases of enteritis, an infusion is used internally in the treatment of diarrhea, internal bleeding, excessive menstruation, etc.  Externally, the plant is used as a cleansing and healing wash for wounds, sores, impetigo, eczema, excess vaginal discharge, vaginal itching etc. The powdered plant is used as a hemostatic in cases of severe nosebleeds. The stems are regarded as gum stimulators and are given to children to chew in order to strengthen weak or bleeding gums.

As a decoction:

For diarrhea, prepare up a decoction using 0.35 ounces (10 grams) of dried Lythrum salicaria. Mix the plant with 1 quart (1 liter) of boiling water. Boil for 10 minutes, then let it steep as it cools. It’s best to drink two to three cups daily.

As powder:

Apply powder directly to wounds or ulcers struggling to heal.