Tormentilla

(Potentilla erecta (L.) Rausch =P. tormentilla Stokes, Rosaceae)

Also Called: Septfoil, Common Tormentil.

Description: Perennial plant with reddish-brown stout rhizome 0.5-3cm (0.2-1 in) thick and up to 20cm (8in) long. The cut surface of the young fresh rhizome is greenish; older rhizomes are brownish-red internally. Stems are thin, branched, 5-20cm (2-8 in), rarely up to 50cm (20 in) long. Leaves ternate, with large, divided stipules; leaflets narrow, dentate. Flowers 3-15mm (0.1-0.6 in), bright yellow with 4 petals (distinction from other potentillas which have 5 petals). Flowering: May-October.

Part Used: Dried rhizome.

Habitat and Collection: On heaths, moors and pastures throughout Europe. Very common in light acid soils throughout Britain. The rhizome may be collected during the summer and autumn. It should be rapidly dried in the sun.

Constituents and Action: Rhizome contains abundant tannins and small amounts of sugar. It ts astringent as an antidiarroeal, in cicatrising wounds, it is anti-inflammatory and is a soothing application to burns.

Usage: Internally for diarrhoea it is best taken in powder form (a knifepointful 3-5 times daily in water, red wine or tea). Also at times as a decoction (boil for 5-10 minutes). Action very uncertain for excessive menstruation. An infusion may be used as a lotion for inflammation of the mouth, throat or vagina. For burns and sunburn the application of the decoction as a lotion or compress is soothing and healing. (In cases of extensive burns, a physician should be consulted.)