During the summer months, fields come alive with the honey-scented flowers of meadowsweet, or “Queen of the Meadow.” Meadowsweet grows wild in wet woodlands, marshy meadows, and alongside rivers and ponds. This edible herbal ally has many medicinal benefits and is widely used by herbalists, making it a helpful addition to any home apothecary.
Disclaimer: This blog is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your health care practitioner before adding any new herbs to your wellness routine.
Folklore & History of Use
A member of the rose family, meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria) is native to the British Isles and Western Asia but can now be found growing through eastern regions of North America.
Folklore shows meadowsweet as a highly celebrated herb in Celtic and Druid traditions. Druids considered it to be one of three sacred herbs alongside vervain and water mint. Throughout the Middle Ages, meadowsweet was a staple for flavouring meads and other fermented drinks. It earned itself the nickname “mead wort” for its abundant use in these delightful brews.
Meadowsweet eventually became known as “Queen of the Meadow” due to its lush growth in low-lying meadows, and in 16th century England, it was often strewn across floors. This practice was customary at the time, as it provided a layer of warmth while hiding any unwanted smells.
In the 1830’s, salicylates were extracted from meadowsweet to provide relief from pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, this compound on its own was found to cause digestive upset for patients. In 1897, a pharmacist named Felix Hoffmann found a solution by creating a synthetically altered version of this compound to create acetylsalicylic acid. This went on to become what we know today as aspirin.
Benefits of Meadowsweet
Digestive Wellness
Meadowsweet’s soothing properties calm the mucous membranes of the stomach lining and digestive tract, along with providing relief from peptic ulcers (1). In traditional healing systems, meadowsweet is used to ease symptoms of dyspepsia such as heartburn, diarrhea, stomach pain, and nausea (2).
Inflammation Support
This anti-inflammatory herb is known for its ability to combat headaches and fever. Meadowsweet contains naturally occurring salicylic acid, making it a powerful herbal ally for alleviating mild to moderate pain (3).
Immune Health
Recent scientific evidence shows that meadowsweet may have a positive effect on immune function. By facilitating macrophage activation and promoting the secretion of cytokines, this herb can stimulate the immune system, supporting adaptive immunity (4).
How to Add Meadowsweet to Your Wellness Routine
Tincture Blends
Aid digestion and nutrient absorption with our Digestive Harmony and Herbal Bitters Tincture Blends.
Artisan Teas
Show your tummy some love with our Calm Belly Artisan Tea.
