A perennial with compound pointed leaves, covered in soft hairs. In summer and autumn it has small yellow flower spikes with a hint of an apricot scent. It grows to a height of 30-60 cm (1-2 ft.).
History and traditions
The species name is from Mithradates Eupator, King of Pontus, who died in 64 ac. He practiced magic, was a great believer in herbal potions and was thought to have rendered himself immune to injury by saturating his body with lethal poisons. The Anglo-Saxons also attributed magical powers to agrimony, including it in charms and dubious preparations of blood and pounded frogs. A sprig under the pillow supposedly brought oblivion, until removed. It was also credited with healing wounds, internal hemorrhages, snake bites, charming away warts and mending bad backs. Retaining its reputation through the centuries, it became the principal ingredient of eau d’arquebusade, a lotion for treating the wounds inflicted by the harquebus, a 16thcentury firearm and forerunner of the musket. It was an essential ingredient of a springtime drink, still taken by country folk into the early years of this century as a “blood purifier”.
Growth
A wild plant which tolerates poor, dry soil, it can be propagated by seed sown in spring or by root division in autumn.
Uses
Medicinal
Has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and astringent properties and is taken internally for sore throats, catarrh, diarrhea, cystitis and urinary infections. Applied externally as a lotion for wounds.
Household
Yields a yellow dye.
