Alchemilla vulgaris, Commonly known as Lion's foot, is a perennial plant highly appreciated in traditional medicine for its remarkable medicinal propertiesIts ability to sprout every spring and withstand the rigors of the climate has made it a constant ally throughout history, especially in mountainous regions and damp meadows. This plant stands out not only for its internal uses but also for its topical applications in skin care and other health problems.
Botanical description and habitat
Alchemilla vulgaris It belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is characterized by its compact appearance and fan-shaped, lobed leaves covered with fine hairs that retain dew drops. The stem is erect, and the leaves are usually grouped at the base. Its small, greenish-yellow flowers lack a corolla and are grouped in terminal clusters. This species is widely distributed in Europe and Asia, also reaching Greenland and mountainous areas of North America.
It adapts to damp meadows, mountain pastures, slopes, and forest clearings, and is especially common in the high mountains of the Pyrenees, the Sierra de Guadarrama, the Cantabrian Mountains, and the Sierra Nevada. It blooms from late spring to midsummer, depending on the climate and altitude.
Chemical composition and active ingredients
The medicinal power of Alchemilla vulgaris comes from its rich in tannins (6-8%), mainly gallic and ellagic, which give it powerful astringent and hemostatic effects. In addition, it contains Flavonoids with antioxidant and venotonic action, salicylic acid (analgesic and antipyretic), phytosterols, palmitic acid y stearic acidPhenolic acids and saponins have also been identified.
These compounds act synergistically to provide a wide variety of therapeutic uses, both internally and externally, reinforcing its popularity in the Phytotherapy.
Main medicinal properties and benefits
- Astringent: : Tannins give Alchemilla a notable astringent action, making it ideal for the treatment of persistent diarrhea, minor bleeding, mouth and skin ulcers, and in general processes that require reduction of secretions.
- Hemostatic: Stops light bleeding and helps in cases of heavy menstrual flow, varicose veins, phlebitis and hemorrhoids.
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant: Thanks to its flavonoids and phenolic acids, it protects against oxidative stress and helps reduce inflammation in common skin and joint conditions.
- Antidiarrheal and bactericidal: Essential in the relief of digestive disorders such as diarrhea and in the prevention of intestinal infections.
- Venotonic and vasoprotective: Improves the elasticity of the veins, increasing capillary resistance and reducing the permeability of blood vessels.
- Diuretic: Used to increase fluid elimination, helping in the retention, mild edema and urinary disorders.
- Healing: In external use, it accelerates the healing of wounds, ulcerations and skin lesions.
- Female hormonal regulator: It has traditionally been used to help with gynecological disorders such as irregular menstruation, premenstrual syndrome, menopausal discomfort, and leucorrhea.
In natural medicine, Alchemilla is considered very versatile, being especially valued in the feminine care and in skin treatment.
Therapeutic applications and traditional uses
Alchemilla vulgaris is a staple in traditional remedies and herbal preparations thanks to its broad spectrum of action:
- Diarrhea and gastrointestinal problems: Used in decoctions or infusions, its astringent action reduces the frequency and severity of bowel movements.
- Gynecological disorders: It is especially useful for heavy or irregular periods. It is used in formulas along with other plants such as sage, mugwort, and santolina to provide regulatory effect in the menstrual cycle.
- Minor bleeding and venous problems: Applied in formulas with horse chestnut, butcher's broom and melilot for varicose veins and hemorrhoids, both internally and in sitz baths or rubs.
- External use for wounds and skinConcentrated decoctions for cleansing wounds, ulcers, eczema, erythema, canker sores, and for skin redness and inflammation. Alchemilla is also used in mouthwashes for canker sores, as a gargle for pharyngitis, and as a natural eye drop for mild conjunctivitis.
- Cosmetic and dermatological careIts extracts are incorporated into creams, lotions, toners, and natural sunscreens to soothe irritated skin, relieve eczema, tighten pores, and prevent acne breakouts. Its richness in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds helps keep skin young and protected.
- Urinary problems and fluid retentionIn herbal tradition, it is frequently used to promote diuresis and relieve minor discomfort in the urinary system.
In folk medicine, it has also been used to treat colds, flu, sore throats, and minor conditions related to fluid retention and gout. Some experimental studies suggest that its extract protects against LDL cholesterol oxidation.
Methods of administration and preparation
- Infusion: One dessert spoonful of dried plant per cup of water. Infuse for 10 minutes and drink up to three cups daily before meals. Ideal for internal use for diarrhea, menstrual problems, and diuresis.
- Decoction: For external use, boil 50 g of the plant per liter of water for five minutes. Use it to clean wounds, apply in compresses, gargles, mouthwashes, sitz baths, or vaginal douches, depending on the condition.
- Concentrated decoction: To clean wounds and ulcers, boil up to 90 g of the plant per liter of water. It is recommended to apply it to the affected area after straining and letting it cool.
- Tincture, liquid extract and capsules: Available at herbalists for those seeking greater convenience. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions and consult a healthcare professional.
Collection, conservation and commercial presentation
The parts of the plant of greatest therapeutic interest are the leaves and aerial tops, harvested at the end of summer, when vegetation is at its peak. Drying should be done in the shade and in a well-ventilated environment to preserve its active ingredients.
In the natural market it is found in various forms: dried plant for infusion, capsules, powders, liquid extracts and cosmetic products. Industrially, it is also used in the composition of Swiss tea and in feed products.
Indications and precautions
Main indications: Diarrhea, menstrual regulation, hemorrhoids, varicose veins, wounds, ulcers, urinary problems, minor stomach discomfort, and skin care. Especially recommended as an aid to women's well-being.
Precautions: Internal use is contraindicated in cases of gastritis and gastroduodenal ulcer, since tannins can irritate the digestive mucosa. In people with kidney failure, heart disease, or high blood pressure, use for diuretic purposes should only be done under medical supervision. In cosmetics, although generally safe, it can cause irritation in very sensitive skin; a tolerance test is recommended before regular use.
The diversity of applications of the Alchemilla This plant is positioned as an essential part of both traditional herbal medicine and current cosmetic innovation, providing natural solutions for feminine well-being, the digestive system, and skin health. Knowledge and responsible use of this plant allow us to take full advantage of its qualities, integrating it into daily health and personal care routines.
