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Tormentil

Potentilla erecta

Please keep in mind that it is illegal to uproot a plant without the landowner's consent and care should be taken at all times not to damage wild plants. Wild plants should never be picked for pleasure and some plants are protected by law.
For more information please download the BSBI Code of Conduct PDF document.

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Flowering Months:

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Order:

Rosales

Family:

Rosaceae (Rose)

Also in this family:

Acute Leaf-lobed Lady's-mantle, Alpine Cinquefoil, Alpine Lady's-mantle, Ampfield Cotoneaster, Arran Service Tree, Arran Whitebeam, Barren Strawberry, Bastard Agrimony, Bastard Service Tree, Bearberry Cotoneaster, Bird Cherry, Blackthorn, Bloody Whitebeam, Bramble, Bristol Whitebeam, Broad-leaved Whitebeam, Broadtooth Lady's-mantle, Bronze Pirri-pirri-bur, Bullace Plum, Bullate Cotoneaster, Burnet Rose, Catacol Whitebeam, Caucasian Lady's-mantle, Cheddar Whitebeam, Cherry Laurel, Cherry Plum, Chinese Photinia, Cloudberry, Clustered Lady's-mantle, Common Agrimony, Common Hawthorn, Common Lady's-mantle, Common Medlar, Common Ninebark, Common Whitebeam, Crab Apple, Creeping Chinese Bramble, Creeping Cinquefoil, Crimean Lady's-mantle, Cultivated Apple, Cultivated Pear, Cut-leaved Blackberry, Damson, Devon Whitebeam, Dewberry, Diel's Cotoneaster, Dog Rose, Doward Whitebeam, Dropwort, Elm-leaved Bramble, English Whitebeam, Entire-leaved Cotoneaster, False Salmonberry, Field Rose, Firethorn, Fodder Burnet, Fragrant Agrimony, Franchet's Cotoneaster, Garden Lady's-mantle, Garden Strawberry, Giant Meadowsweet, Glaucous Dog Rose, Goatsbeard Spiraea, Gough's Rock Whitebeam, Great Burnet, Greengage Plum, Grey-leaved Whitebeam, Hairless Lady's-mantle, Hairy Lady's-mantle, Hautbois Strawberry, Himalayan Blackberry, Himalayan Cotoneaster, Himalayan Whitebeam, Hoary Cinquefoil, Hollyberry Cotoneaster, Hupeh Rowan, Hybrid Cinquefoil, Hybrid Geum, Irish Whitebeam, Japanese Cherry, Japanese Quince, Japanese Rose, Jew's Mallow, Juneberry, Lancaster Whitebeam, Late Cotoneaster, Least Lady's-mantle, Least Whitebeam, Leigh Woods Whitebeam, Ley's Whitebeam, Liljefor's Whitebeam, Littleleaf Cotoneaster, Llangollen Whitebeam, Llanthony Whitebeam, Lleyn Cotoneaster, Loganberry, Many-flowered Rose, Margaret's Whitebeam, Marsh Cinquefoil, Meadowsweet, Midland Hawthorn, Mougeot's Whitebeam, Mountain Ash, Mountain Avens, Mountain Sibbaldia, Moupin's Cotoneaster, No Parking Whitebeam, Ocean Spray, Orange Whitebeam, Pale Bridewort, Pale Lady's-mantle, Parsley Piert, Pirri-pirri-bur, Plymouth Pear, Portuguese Laurel, Purple-flowered Raspberry, Quince, Raspberry, Rock Cinquefoil, Rock Lady's-mantle, Rock Whitebeam, Round-leaved Dog Rose, Round-leaved Whitebeam, Rum Cherry, Russian Cinquefoil, Salad Burnet, Sargent's Rowan, Scannell's Whitebeam, Service Tree, Sharp-toothed Whitebeam, Sherard's Downy Rose, Shining Lady's-mantle, Ship Rock Whitebeam, Short-styled Rose, Shrubby Cinquefoil, Silver Lady's-mantle, Silverweed, Slender Parsley Piert, Slender-spined Bramble, Small-flowered Sweetbriar, Small-leaved Sweetbriar, Soft Downy Rose, Somerset Whitebeam, Sorbaria, Sour Cherry, Southern Downy Rose, Southern Lady's-mantle, Spineless Acaena, Spring Cinquefoil, St. Lucie's Cherry, Steeplebush, Stern's Cotoneaster, Stirton's Whitebeam, Stone Bramble, Sulphur Cinquefoil, Swedish Service Tree, Swedish Whitebeam, Sweet Briar, Symond's Yat Whitebeam, Tengyueh Cotoneaster, Thimbleberry, Thin-leaved Whitebeam, Tibetan Cotoneaster, Trailing Tormentil, Tree Cotoneaster, Trefoil Cinquefoil, Twin-cliffs Whitebeam, Two-spined Acaena, Wall Cotoneaster, Water Avens, Waterer's Cotoneaster, Waxy Lady's-mantle, Welsh Cotoneaster, Welsh Whitebeam, White Burnet, White's Whitebeam, White-stemmed Bramble, Wild Cherry, Wild Pear, Wild Plum, Wild Service Tree, Wild Strawberry, Willmott's Whitebeam, Willow-leaved Bridewort, Willow-leaved Cotoneaster, Wineberry, Wood Avens, Wye Whitebeam, Yellow-flowered Strawberry

Type:

Flower

Life Cycle:

Perennial

Maximum Size:

60 centimetres tall

Habitats:

Bogs, fens, fields, gardens, grassland, heathland, lawns, meadows, moorland, mountains, roadsides, sand dunes, scrub, swamps, woodland.

Flower:

Yellow, 4 petals

Rather like a 4 petalled buttercup but with slightly notched petals. The yellow flowers are also similar in appearance to Cinquefoils and Silverweed, except they have 4 petals and not 5.

Fruit:

A greyish-brown, ridged achene (type of seed).

Leaves:

A sprawling plant with compound leaves, having between 3 and 5 leaflets. The two leaflets at the base are stipules. The leaves are arranged alternate along the stems. The leaflets are egg-shaped and deeply toothed.

Other Names:

Biscuits, Bloodroot, Common Cinquefoil, Earthbank, English Sarsaparilla, Erect Cinquefoil, Ewe Daisy, Flesh and Blood, Septfoil, Shepherd's Knapperty, Shepherd's Knot, Thormantle, Tormentilla, Upright Cinquefoil.

Frequency (UK):

Common

Creeping Cinquefoil

Hybrid Cinquefoil

Spring Cinquefoil

Trailing Tormentil

Summary

Potentilla erecta, also known as upright cinquefoil or tormentil, is a perennial herbaceous plant in the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe, Asia and North America and is often found in meadows, pastures, and along roadsides. It has a erect habit, reaching up to 60 cm tall, with green leaves that are divided into five leaflets, and produces bright yellow flowers with five petals in the spring and summer. The plant prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade, but it can grow in a wide range of soils including dry, rocky and acid soils. It can be propagated by seed or division, and it's hardy to USDA Zone 2. It is a popular plant for wildflower gardens, meadows, and as a ground cover. It also has medicinal properties and has been traditionally used to treat wounds, diarrhea, and dysentery.

Blog

Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) is a herb that belongs to the rose family and is native to northern and central Europe, as well as Asia. This plant is well known for its medicinal properties and has been used for centuries to treat various health conditions.

The plant is a small, low-growing shrub with a dense carpet of leaves and small yellow flowers. It is a hardy plant that can grow in a variety of soils and climates, making it a popular choice for gardens and wildflower meadows.

The roots and leaves of tormentil are the parts of the plant that are used for medicinal purposes. They contain tannins and other compounds that have astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.

One of the main health benefits of tormentil is its ability to treat digestive problems, such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. The tannins in the plant are believed to help soothe the digestive tract and reduce inflammation, which can help to relieve symptoms.

Tormentil has also been used to treat skin conditions, such as eczema and psoriasis. The anti-inflammatory properties of the plant help to reduce redness, itching, and swelling, making it a popular natural remedy for these skin conditions.

In addition to its digestive and skin benefits, tormentil has also been shown to have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it an effective treatment for wounds and other infections. The plant has been used for centuries to treat wounds and ulcers, and is still used in some traditional medicine systems today.

Another potential benefit of tormentil is its ability to help regulate blood sugar levels. The plant has been shown to have an insulin-like effect, which can help to regulate blood sugar levels in people with diabetes.

To use tormentil, the roots and leaves can be harvested and dried, and then made into teas, tinctures, or ointments. The plant is generally considered safe when used in moderation, but it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before using it for medicinal purposes, especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions or are taking any medications.

Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) is a versatile and hardy herb that has a long history of medicinal use. Whether you are looking to treat digestive problems, skin conditions, or wounds, this plant is definitely worth considering as a natural remedy. With its anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and blood sugar regulating properties, tormentil is a powerful and effective herb that can help to improve your health and well-being.

Tormentil is also known to have potential benefits for the immune system. It has been shown to have immunostimulatory effects, which means it can help to boost the body's natural defenses against illness and infection. This makes it a useful herb for people who are prone to getting sick, as well as for those recovering from illness or injury.

The plant is also believed to have mild pain-relieving and sedative effects, making it a useful remedy for people with mild to moderate pain or stress. Some people use it to help them relax and sleep better, and it is sometimes used in conjunction with other herbs or natural remedies for this purpose.

One of the best things about tormentil is that it is easy to grow and can be found in many gardens and wildflower meadows. If you are interested in incorporating this herb into your health regimen, you may want to consider planting it in your own garden or foraging for it in the wild. It is important to note, however, that you should only gather wild tormentil if you are confident in your ability to identify it correctly, as there are many similar-looking plants that are not safe to consume.

In terms of side effects, tormentil is generally considered safe when used in moderation. However, as with any herbal remedy, it is possible to experience adverse effects if you use too much or if you have an allergy to the plant. Some people may experience skin irritation or other side effects if they use tormentil ointments or other topical products.

Tormentil is a powerful and versatile herb with a long history of medicinal use. Whether you are looking to treat digestive problems, skin conditions, wounds, or boost your immune system, this herb is definitely worth considering as a natural remedy. If you are interested in using tormentil, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

Additionally, tormentil has been used in traditional herbal medicine as a tonic to help support overall health and wellness. It is believed to help improve energy levels and enhance physical performance, making it a useful herb for athletes and people with active lifestyles. Some people also use it to help improve their mental clarity and focus, as well as to help alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Another important aspect of tormentil is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are important for protecting the body against oxidative stress and cellular damage, and can help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and stroke. By helping to neutralize harmful free radicals in the body, tormentil can help to protect your health and support overall wellness.

In traditional medicine, tormentil has also been used to treat respiratory problems, such as coughs, colds, and bronchitis. The plant's anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties are believed to help soothe the respiratory tract and relieve symptoms of these conditions.

It is worth noting that tormentil should not be used as a substitute for conventional medical treatments, especially in the case of serious illnesses or conditions. However, as a complementary therapy, it can be a useful addition to your overall health regimen.

Tormentil (Potentilla erecta) is a versatile and powerful herb with a wide range of potential health benefits. From treating digestive problems and skin conditions, to boosting the immune system and supporting overall wellness, this plant has a lot to offer. Whether you are looking to incorporate it into your health regimen, or simply enjoy its beauty in your garden, tormentil is definitely a plant worth exploring further.

It is important to mention that tormentil has also been used in traditional dyeing practices, particularly in Europe and Asia. The roots of the plant contain a bright yellow pigment that was used to produce yellow and golden colors in textiles, baskets, and other handmade items. This natural dye has been used for centuries and continues to be used by traditional crafts people and artisans today.

In traditional European medicine, tormentil has also been used as a remedy for a variety of skin problems, including wounds, cuts, burns, and skin infections. Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties make it a useful herb for treating these types of conditions.

It is also worth noting that tormentil has been used in cosmetics and personal care products due to its skin-friendly properties. Some people use it in face creams, lotions, and other skin care products to help improve the overall health and appearance of their skin.

Tormentil is a versatile and multi-talented herb with a wide range of potential health benefits and uses. Whether you are interested in its medicinal properties, its potential as a natural dye, or its use in cosmetics and personal care products, this plant is definitely worth exploring further. If you are considering using tormentil, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.

It's also worth mentioning that tormentil has been used in traditional European cuisine, particularly in the form of tea or tinctures. The plant's roots and leaves have a slightly bitter, astringent taste that is said to be refreshing and invigorating. Some people enjoy tormentil tea for its unique flavor, as well as for its potential health benefits.

In terms of dosage and administration, the recommended dose of tormentil depends on the form in which it is taken and the reason for use. For example, a common dose for tormentil tea is 1-2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of boiling water, steeped for 10-15 minutes. For tinctures, the recommended dose is typically 1-2 mL taken three times daily.

It's important to note that tormentil should not be taken in large doses or for extended periods of time, as this can lead to side effects such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. It's also important to note that tormentil may interact with certain medications, so it's important to consult with a healthcare professional before using this herb, especially if you are taking prescription medications.

In conclusion, tormentil is a fascinating and versatile herb with a wide range of potential health benefits and uses. Whether you are interested in its medicinal properties, its use as a natural dye, or its potential in cooking and personal care products, this plant is definitely worth exploring further. If you are considering using tormentil, be sure to consult with a healthcare professional to ensure that it is safe and appropriate for you.