50g Marsh Cinquefoil Root (Comarum palustre)

Marsh Cinquefoil (Comarum palustre)

Marsh Cinquefoil (Comarum palustre), also known by its many common names including Great Cinquefoil, Swamp Cinquefoil, Purple Marshlocks, and Willow-leaved Cinquefoil, is a perennial semi-shrub belonging to the Rosaceae (rose) family. This remarkable plant has a long, creeping rhizome that can extend up to 3 meters in waterlogged peat. Its distinctive saber-shaped stems (hence the name “saber-shaped”) are reddish-brown and can reach a height of 1 meter. The leaves are palmate, with five to seven leaflets resembling fingers, while the upper leaves are trifoliate. Its dark red flowers bloom in clusters during August.

Marsh Cinquefoil thrives in damp, low-lying areas, including the banks of lakes and rivers, peat bogs, flooded meadows, swampy forests, and even tundra regions. Its geographic distribution is extensive, encompassing northern and central Europe, Western and Eastern Siberia, Mongolia, China, Scandinavia, North America, and Japan.

Traditional and Medicinal Uses

The rhizomes and leaves of Marsh Cinquefoil have been valued for their medicinal properties for centuries. Used traditionally by the Sami people of Lapland, this plant has a long history of use as a gentle biostimulant, helping the body adapt to various conditions. Its primary action is to improve the flow of bodily fluids. The plant contains a wealth of beneficial compounds including:

• Vitamins: Vitamin C (in stems and leaves)
• Minerals: Potassium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus (in stems and leaves)
• Other Compounds: Carotene, tannins, essential oils, and flavonoids (in roots)

Traditional Applications of Marsh Cinquefoil:

Traditional medicine has utilized Marsh Cinquefoil to address a wide array of health concerns, including:

• Joint Pain & Inflammation: Arthritis, arthrosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatism, and radiculitis.
• Gastrointestinal Issues: Stomach aches, digestive disorders, diarrhea.
• Infections: Influenza (flu), Tuberculosis.
• Other Conditions: Bleeding, liver diseases, certain types of cancer (though further research is needed), hypertension, jaundice, cholecystitis, angina.
• External Use: Used topically for wound healing, gum disease, toothaches, and insect bites.

How to Use Marsh Cinquefoil

Infusion (Tea):

Add 1 tablespoon of crushed Marsh Cinquefoil to 0.5 liters of boiling water. Steep for 1 hour, covered. Strain and consume 0.5 cups four times daily, 30 minutes before meals, with the final dose taken at night.

Tincture:

Prepare a 1:10 tincture using 60° alcohol. Allow to steep for 14 days. Take 1 tablespoon three times daily, 30 minutes before meals. The tincture can also be applied topically to affected joints.

Important Note

While Marsh Cinquefoil has a long history of traditional use, it’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before using it, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking other medications, or have pre-existing health conditions. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice.