Fagopyrum esculentum

Fagopyrum esculentum
Family:Fagopyrum esculentum; Acrid; Astringent; Galactogogue; Vasodilator.
Common name:Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a bitter but pleasant tasting herb that is frequently used medicinally because the leaves are a good source of rutin. Rutin is useful in the treatment of a wide range of circulatory problems it dilates the blood vessels reduces capillary permeability and lowers blood pressure. The leaves and shoots of flowering plants are acrid astringent and vasodilator. It is used internally in the treatment of high blood pressure gout varicose veins chilblains radiation damage etc. It is best used in conjunction with vitamin C since this aids absorption. Often combined with lime flowers (Tilia species) it is a specific treatment for haemorrhage into the retina. The leaves and flowering stems are harvested as the plant begins to flower and are dried for later use. They should be stored in the dark because the active ingredients rapidly degrade in the light. Some caution should be exercised in the use of this herb because it has been known to cause light-sensitive dermatitis. A poultice made from the seeds has been used for restoring the flow of milk in nursing mothers. An infusion of the herb has been used in the treatment of erysipelas (an acute infectious skin disease). A homeopathic remedy has been made from the leaves. It is used in the treatment of eczema and liver disorders.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 03:15 []