Synonyms in a broader sense
Latin name: Polygonum bistoria Folk name: Calf’s tongue, viper’s wort, toothbrush Family: Knotweed plants
Plant description
The plant grows up to 120 cm high from a flattened, inside reddish-brown colored rootstock. On a triangular stem, the cylindrical flower grows at the upper end, light to dark pink. Flowering time: Early summer: In Europe widespread on humid meadows.
Medicinally used plant parts
The rootstock, preferably collected in May, washed, divided in the middle and dried in the sun
Ingredients
Large quantities of tanning agents, starch and protein
Effect and application
Tanning agents bring relief in cases of diarrhoea and inflammation of the mouth and throat. The tea serves well as a gargle and washing-up liquid. The effect is similar to that of oak bark and bloodroot. However, the snake knotweed is used less frequently.
Preparation
Snakeweed tea: Take 2 teaspoons of dried root and pour a large cup of lukewarm water over it. This mixture remains (stir occasionally) for about 5 hours. Strain and warm up to drinking temperature.
Side effects
If overdosed, the tanning agent contained can irritate the stomach lining.
