Day 23: Herb Robert

Geranium robertianum

I love finding hidden spots, just off the beaten track. I only need divert marginally to find myself in a whole new world, where animal tracks, not human tracks are most prominent, and I can sit unseen, undisturbed, immersed in nature.

Perhaps a more accurate description of this type of sit spot is “in the bushes”.

So, this morning I was in the bushes again. Taking my tea with herb Robert, a very dear old friend of mine.

We both sat among the bluebells beside the flowing stream, listening to the birds and the breeze in the leaves.

ID features

The flowers grow in pairs with 5 pink petals which have white lines and orange stamen. The seed pod develops into a long point which resembles a beak and inspired its other name of cranesbill.

The leaves are divided into 3 stalked lobes, which are deeply lobed and toothed, a little like cow parsley and fern, except they have little hairs on them, and are much lower are smaller.

The stem is also hairy and arises out of a basal rosette, which when open to the sun turns a distinctive red. The leaves also turn red in the presence of plenty of sunshine, however, the plant prefers damp shaded areas. It is a prolific weed that spreads by popping out its 5 seeds in 5 directions. They can also put down runners which further increases their coverage.

Medicinal uses

The traditional use of herb Robert has been as a tissue healer, especially for slow healing wounds, both internally and externally. It contains tannins which make it astringent, and is antioxidant, both of which create an anti-inflammatory action.

It has also traditionally been used for the bladder as it is slightly diuretic and also antimicrobial. Traditional usage also points to its use in throat issues and rheumatic pain.

Modern research has discovered a very impressive oxygenation action. It contains a substance called germanium which acts as an oxygen carrier. This improves the oxygen status of the cells meaning that cellular respiration is improved and hence greater energy production. In fact, all metabolic processes requiring oxygen will benefit, including general repair.

Lack of oxygen is implicated in pain and inflammatory states, as well as cancer. Evidence supports that cells cannot turn cancerous in the presence of oxygen. The combination of actions provided by this plant, including its nutritive profile, offer a natural form of health promotion.

How to make a cuppa

Use leaves, stalks and flowers, about 5 pieces each per cup.

Taste

Like geranium, (if you know what that is like!). Some liken it to burned rubber. I detected a mineral/metal taste and perhaps a sourish taste, confirming to me that it is indeed rich in vitamins and minerals.

Click the button below to listen to my:

Herb Robert audio reflections

 For those Local to me:

You can book me to host a herb walk either one-to-one, with a friend or as a group, (up to 20 participants max.) £10pp for group, or £30 single/in a pair. Bring a flask of hot water for a foraged tea. Contact to arrange date and time. Locations in and around the Bristol and North Somerset area. sarah-janecobley@healthneedsthyme.co.uk

 Herbal Medicine Consultations

I am a qualified medical herbalist, trained in much the same way as a GP. However, my medicines are from nature's medicine chest. They nourish and strengthen so that your body can heal itself. I offer consultations via video call and send tonics out in the post. Email me to book an appointment: sarah-janecobley@healthneedsthyme.co.uk