Whorls of dusky pink flowers bloom in summer on 3 foot perennial plants. Grow in full sun and light, well-drained, non-acidic soil.
Traditional Healing Uses: A woman’s herb commonly used for menstrual problems, the side-effects of menopause, and as a postpartum sedative and infection preventative. Also used to lower blood pressure and slow heartbeat, and to alleviate anxiety, fever, insomnia, rheumatism, and sciatica.
Harvest: Collect and dry leaves and flower heads during summer bloom.
Preparation: Pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb and steep for 10-15 minutes. For a menopause tincture, cover fresh herb with vodka, steep 6 weeks, and remove herb.
Caution: Do not use during pregnancy.
