An aromatic perennial on a creeping rootstock, it is 50 cm (20 in) in height. Leaves are linear to ovate, and compact spikes of violet, two-lipped florets are borne in the leaf axils in midsummer to mid-autumn.
History and traditions
A herb with an ancient history in Chinese herbalism, but apparently unknown to the ancient Greeks and Romans. Prunella vulgaris has featured in Chinese medical texts since the end of the previous millennium, where it is said to be mainly associated with “liver energy” disorders. In Europe its common names, “self-heal”, “all-heal” and “hook-heal”, all indicate its former use as a wound herb and activator of the body’s defenses, as explained by Culpeper: “Self-heal, whereby when you’re hurt you heal yourself.” It was held to be “a special remedy for inward and outward wounds” (Culpeper, The English Physician, 1653) and commonly taken to have the same virtues as Ajuga reptans (bugle). It was taken to North America by settlers, where it soon became established and known as “heart of the earth” and “blue curls”. However, unlike Ajuga it still has a limited place in modern herbal medicine.
Habitat/distribution
Native to Europe, northern Africa and Asia, naturalized in North America, found on sunny banks, in dry grassland and open woodland.
Growth
Grow in light soil in sun or dappled shade; tolerates most conditions. Propagated by seed sown in spring or by division in spring. It is inclined to be invasive.
Parts used
Flowering stems dried for use in infusions and medicinal preparations.
Uses
Medicinal
It has antibacterial properties and is used externally to soothe burns, skin inflammations, bites and bruises, sore throats and inflamed gums.
