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Sheep Sorrel

Rumex acetosella

Rumex acetosella Rumex acetosella
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Contents

Plant Profile

Flowering Months:
JAN  FEB  MAR  APR  MAY  JUN  JUL  AUG  SEP  OCT  NOV  DEC
Order:
Caryophyllales
Family:
Polygonaceae (Dock)
Also in this family:
Alpine Bistort, Amphibious Bistort, Argentine Dock, Black Bindweed, Broad-leaved Dock, Clustered Dock, Common Bistort, Common Buckwheat, Common Knotgrass, Common Sorrel, Copse Bindweed, Cornfield Knotgrass, Curled Dock, Equal-leaved Knotgrass, Fiddle Dock, French Sorrel, Garden Rhubarb, Giant Knotweed, Golden Dock, Greek Dock, Himalayan Knotweed, Iceland Purslane, Japanese Knotweed, Least Water-pepper, Lesser Knotweed, Marsh Dock, Monk's Rhubarb, Mountain Sorrel, Northern Dock, Northern Knotgrass, Pale Persicaria, Patience Dock, Pink Knotweed, Ray's Knotgrass, Red Bistort, Redleg, Russian Vine, Scottish Dock, Sea Knotgrass, Shore Dock, Tasteless Water-pepper, Water Dock, Water-pepper, Wood Dock
Type:
Flower
Life Cycle:
Perennial
Maximum Size:
40 centimetres tall
Habitats:
Beaches, fields, grassland, heathland, lawns, meadows, moorland, roadsides, sand dunes, waterside, woodland.

Flower:
֍
Green, 3 petals
 
Small green flowers which are frequently tinged red. The flowers grow in compact leafless spikes and are almost always unbranched.
Fruit:
A round, brown, 3-edged seed (achene).
Leaves:
Linear, untoothed, arrow-shaped leaves. The two linear basal lobes are pointed and distinctive in shape. Stem leaves are alternately arranged. Not hairy.
Other Names:
Common Sheep Sorrel, Cow Sorrel, Cuckoo Bread, Cuckoo's Sorrel, Field Sorrel, Garden Sorrel, Gentleman's Sorrel, Green Sauce, Horse Sorrel, Mountain Sorrel, Ranty-tanty, Red Sorrel, Red Weed, Sour Dock, Sour Grass, Sour Weed, Sourleaf, Surette, Toad's Sorrel.
Frequency (UK):
Common  

Other Information

Summary

Rumex acetosella, commonly known as sheep's sorrel, red sorrel or field sorrel, is a perennial herb that is native to Europe, Asia and North America. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soil types, and can tolerate shade, dry conditions and poor soil. The leaves of the plant are edible, and have a tart, lemony flavor. They are often used in salads and as a flavoring herb in soups, stews, and sauces. It's also used to make a traditional herbal drink called "sorrel drink" in some countries. The plant is also rich in Vitamin C, Iron and other minerals.

Blog

Sheep sorrel, scientifically known as Rumex acetosella, is a perennial plant that belongs to the family Polygonaceae. This herbaceous plant is native to Europe and Asia but has since been introduced to various parts of the world, including North America.

Sheep sorrel is a small plant that typically grows to a height of 10-40 cm. It has bright green leaves that are arrow-shaped and can grow up to 10 cm long. The leaves have a lemony, tart flavor and are used in various culinary applications, such as adding to soups, salads, and sauces. In addition, the plant produces small, reddish-brown flowers that bloom from May to September.

While sheep sorrel is often used for its culinary purposes, it also has a long history of use in traditional medicine. For centuries, it has been used in various parts of the world to treat a wide range of ailments, including digestive disorders, skin conditions, and urinary tract infections. In modern times, sheep sorrel has been studied for its potential health benefits, and research has shown that it contains a number of bioactive compounds that may provide various health benefits.

One of the most significant compounds found in sheep sorrel is oxalic acid. This compound has been shown to have antimicrobial properties, which means it can help to fight off harmful bacteria and viruses in the body. In addition, oxalic acid may have anti-inflammatory properties, which could make it useful in the treatment of various inflammatory conditions.

Another compound found in sheep sorrel is quercetin. This powerful antioxidant has been shown to have anti-cancer properties, which means it may help to prevent the growth and spread of cancer cells in the body. In addition, quercetin may also have anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in the treatment of conditions such as arthritis and asthma.

Sheep sorrel has also been studied for its potential to improve digestive health. The plant contains a number of compounds that have been shown to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes, which can help to improve digestion and absorption of nutrients. Additionally, sheep sorrel may also have a mild laxative effect, which could help to relieve constipation.

Sheep sorrel is a fascinating plant that has been used for centuries for its various health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand the plant's potential, it is clear that it contains a number of bioactive compounds that could provide various health benefits. Whether you're looking to add some flavor to your cooking or boost your overall health, sheep sorrel is definitely worth exploring.

Sheep sorrel has also been used in traditional medicine to support the immune system. It contains several compounds that may help to boost immune function, including vitamin C and anthraquinones. These compounds have been shown to have immune-stimulating properties, which means they can help to enhance the body's natural defense mechanisms and protect against infection.

In addition to its potential health benefits, sheep sorrel is also a popular plant in permaculture and gardening. Its deep roots help to break up compacted soil and improve soil health, and it is often used as a companion plant to improve the growth and health of other plants in the garden.

However, it is important to note that sheep sorrel should be consumed in moderation. The plant contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can be toxic in large quantities. Individuals with kidney problems or a history of kidney stones should be cautious when consuming sheep sorrel, as oxalic acid can contribute to the formation of calcium oxalate stones.

Sheep sorrel is a versatile plant that offers a range of potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand its properties, its long history of use in traditional medicine is a testament to its potential. Whether you're looking to improve your digestion, support your immune system, or simply add some zest to your cooking, sheep sorrel is definitely a plant worth exploring. However, it is important to consume it in moderation and speak to a healthcare professional before incorporating it into your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions.

Sheep sorrel is also used in herbal medicine as a diuretic, meaning it helps to increase urine output and reduce fluid retention. This property is attributed to the presence of anthraquinones and potassium in the plant, which have been shown to increase urine production and help to eliminate excess fluids from the body.

Furthermore, sheep sorrel has been studied for its potential in treating various skin conditions. The plant contains several compounds that may have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it useful in treating skin infections and reducing inflammation associated with conditions such as eczema and psoriasis.

Sheep sorrel is also known for its antioxidant properties, which help to protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to the development of various diseases. The antioxidants in sheep sorrel, such as vitamin C and quercetin, help to neutralize these harmful molecules and protect against oxidative stress.

Sheep sorrel is a fascinating plant with a long history of use in traditional medicine. It contains a range of compounds that have been shown to provide various health benefits, including immune support, improved digestion, skin health, and antioxidant protection. While it should be consumed in moderation due to its high oxalic acid content, sheep sorrel is definitely a plant worth exploring for its potential health benefits.

Sheep sorrel has also been studied for its potential anti-cancer properties. It contains several compounds, including quercetin and kaempferol, that have been shown to have anti-tumor effects. These compounds may work by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells and inducing cell death.

Additionally, sheep sorrel has been used in traditional medicine to help reduce fever and alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu. Its high vitamin C content helps to support the immune system and may help to reduce the duration and severity of respiratory infections.

Finally, sheep sorrel is a good source of several essential nutrients, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron. These nutrients are important for maintaining overall health and well-being, and consuming sheep sorrel can be a convenient way to increase your intake of these important nutrients.

Sheep sorrel is a versatile and fascinating plant that offers a range of potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand its properties and potential side effects, its long history of use in traditional medicine suggests that it may have significant therapeutic value. As with any herbal supplement, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional before incorporating sheep sorrel into your diet, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

In addition to its potential health benefits, sheep sorrel has a rich cultural history. It has been used by Indigenous peoples in North America for centuries, both as a medicinal plant and as a food source. The plant has played a significant role in the traditional diets and medicinal practices of many Native American tribes.

Sheep sorrel is also an important component of the Essiac tea, a popular herbal remedy that has been used for cancer treatment and prevention. The tea is made from a blend of herbs, including sheep sorrel, and has been used by many cancer patients as an adjunct to conventional treatment. While the evidence for its efficacy is mixed, many people believe that Essiac tea has helped them to manage symptoms and improve their quality of life during cancer treatment.

Lastly, it is worth noting that sheep sorrel can be a valuable addition to a sustainable, low-maintenance garden. The plant is hardy, easy to grow, and can be harvested multiple times throughout the growing season. It is also a natural source of nitrogen, which makes it a useful companion plant for nitrogen-hungry crops such as tomatoes and corn.

In conclusion, sheep sorrel is a fascinating and versatile plant that offers a range of potential health benefits. While more research is needed to fully understand its properties, its long history of use in traditional medicine and its cultural significance make it a plant worth exploring. Whether you are interested in improving your digestion, supporting your immune system, or simply learning more about traditional herbal remedies, sheep sorrel is a plant with much to offer.

Video

Sheep Sorrel filmed at Kentmere in the Lake District, 1st June 2023.

 

Music credits
Hall of the Mountain King by Kevin MacLeod is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/
Source: http://incompetech.com/music/royalty-free/index.html?isrc=USUAN1200072
Artist: http://incompetech.com/

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