Parts Most Frequently Used: Leaf, Root, Young Shoot, Seed

Flavors/Temps: Bitter, Astringent

Caution:  Considered safe, used as directed. Infusions of leaves can be too bitter for some, causing stomach disorders.

Key Constituents: Rich source of Tannins and Vitamins A and C. Mucilage, Bioflavonoids, Pectin, Potassium, Fiber, Phosphorus

History/Folklore: Willowherb is often considered a weed in the garden. In WWII, it rapidly colonized derelict bomb sites during the many bombings of London. In America, it springs up on ground recently cleared by fire, lending it the name “fireweed.” It has also been known to colonize sites disturbed by oil spills and is often used to re-establish vegetation in these areas.

The young leaves, roots, and shoots are edible, with the shoots being eaten like you would eat asparagus. The dried leaves make a good tea. In Russia, it is used as a tea substitute. The soft inner part of the stem can be removed and used as a thickener in soups or stews, and the flowers are edible. The juice of the flowers is highly antiseptic and can be squeezed from the fresh petals, and an extract made from the leaves is used in ointments to soothe burns, sores, swellings, and boils.

As fodder, it is popular with goats and cows, and sheep will eat it too. In Finland, it is believed to increase the milk production of cattle

The down of the seeds has been mixed with cotton or fur in the manufacturing of stockings.

Native American Indians prepared a tea from the root to use as an enema to treat infant constipation, and peelings off the stems were dried and used to make strong cords for fishing.

Willowherb is useful for treating stress, feeling burned out, and washing away an old way of life.

In China, in addition to the leaves and flowers, the seeds are specifically used for treating impotence associated with Kidney Qi and Yang Deficiency.

The genus Epilobium derives from the Greek words “epi”, meaning upon, and “lobos,” meaning a pod, because the flowers stand upon the top of a long, thin, pod-like seed-vessel.

Willowherb can be grown in flower pots or hung and dried to help clean your home’s inside environment from air pollutants and unwanted bacteria.

Willowherb spreads by rhizome and root growth, but its seeds are its most effective method for spreading. In summer and autumn, the plant produces large amounts of seeds that spread on the slightest breeze, helping the plant to colonize new areas of bare soil easily. Despite being invasive, especially in roadside or disturbed environments, it is a valuable plant for pollinators and provides pollen to insects.

Willowherb symbolizes connection to the earth and the cycles of life. Its ability to crowd out native species is also a metaphor for resilience and determination.