A hardy perennial with a stout, twisted rhizome, it has a clump of broad, ovate basal leaves, from which the pale-pink, cylindrical flower spikes arise on erect “jointed” stems to about 50 cm (20 in).
History and traditions
The generic name comes from the Greek poly, many, and gonu, knee, for the knotted shape of the stems, not unlike little joints, of many polygonum species. Bistort was not known as a medicinal plant until the 16th century, but soon gained a reputation as a wound-healing herb. It was cited in The Universal Herbal, 1832, as a treatment for “intermittent fever”, and considered helpful for diabetes into the early 20th century.
Growth
Grows best in rich, moist soil, in sun or partial shade. Easily propagated by division, it is an invasive plant, but can make useful ground cover in damp areas.
Parts used
Rhizomes dried for powders, extracts, decoctions and other medicinal preparations.
Uses
Medicinal
Said to reduce inflammation and promote healing, it is used as a gargle for gum disease, mouth ulcers and sore throats, applied externally to hemorrhoids, cuts and wounds and taken internally for diarrhoea.
