Initial letter medicinal: medicinal properties and contraindications

Initial letter medicinal (purifier officinalis) is a perennial herb from the genus Yasnotkovye. It is also called field sage. About the beneficial properties of plants known since ancient times. Even in ancient Greece, it was used to cleanse the stomach and blood. Initial letter was considered the best laxative. Recently, its popularity in traditional medicine is growing.

Chemical composition

The grass was widely used in folk medicine. The plant has a full range of nutrients:

1. Vitamin C. One of the most important vitamins for the human body. Strengthens the immune system, removes toxins, strengthens blood vessels and has a calming effect on the nervous system. The blood circulation process also normalizes.
2. Vitamin K. It improves blood coagulation and the absorption of calcium by the body, is the prevention of osteoporosis, prevents the accumulation of calcium around the vessels. It takes part in the synthesis of protein, which is responsible for the fact that calcium is not collected in muscle tissue.
3. Calcium. An important building block for bone. It is able to normalize the work of the heart and remove cholesterol from the body.
4. Tannins. They help cleanse the body of toxins, have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Tannins are used in traditional medicine, but are also found in a large number of plants. They are able to remove kidney stones and prevent heavy metals from settling in the body.
5. Choline. The health benefits of choline were only discovered at the beginning of the twentieth century. It protects cell membranes and lowers blood cholesterol. It has a sedative effect and can improve the condition of a person with depression. Prevents the formation of stones in the gallbladder, normalizes metabolism, which helps to lose weight.
6. Essential oils. Often used in cosmetology and are a component of many drugs. They are distinguished by the ability to improve the condition of the skin, strengthen immunity and remove toxins from the body. Promote rapid healing of wounds and prevent varicose veins.
7. Anthocyanins. They have a pronounced anti-inflammatory effect. They also have a beneficial effect on the nervous system and heart, and help to lose weight. In addition to the initial letters, they are found in black mountain ash, currants and raspberries.
8. Alkaloids. They have a sedative effect, are able to lower blood pressure, and also soothe the rhythm of the heart.
9. Flavone glycosides. In addition to antimicrobial action, they are famous for their expectorant properties, they are able to relieve physical fatigue. Used for a sedative and laxative effect, can reduce appetite and improve the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract.

How it looks and where it grows

This is a perennial, stiff-haired grass, which can grow up to 80–90 cm in height. The root of the plant is short, branched. The stem is only one, straight, covered with hard hairs. Below are two large heart-shaped leaflets.In the middle part there is a pair of small thin leaves, and on top are flowers that are collected in inflorescences. The upper part of the leaves is painted dark green and covered with small hairs. The inner side is slightly lighter and has pronounced veins.

Initial letter is distinguished by an unpleasant sharp aroma, which can stupefy. The taste of the plant is bitter.

The flowers are collected in spike-shaped inflorescences, are large in size and have a pleasant pinkish-purple hue. The flowers themselves are slightly oblong and have several petals. The flowering period falls in June. At the beginning of autumn, the fruits are already ripening, they have 4 faces and an oblong shape. Inside the fruit are small brown nuts.

This plant appeared in Asia Minor. Now the initial letter is distributed practically throughout Europe, in Central Asia and even in some regions of Siberia. It is also found in the Urals and the Caucasus. Most often grows in coniferous and mixed forests. You can find the initial letter on the slopes of the mountains, hills, and also along the roads.

Views

The genus Chistets totals more than 300 species of plants. They can be found almost all over the planet. They do not grow only in New Zealand and Australia. There are several main varieties.

1. Chistets woolly. This is one of the most popular plants of this genus among gardeners. Iran and Turkey are considered its homeland. It is found in the south of the European part of Russia and in the Caucasus. The height depends on the conditions and varies between 20-60 cm. The shoots are tetrahedral, straight, there are few leaves on them. The leaves themselves are oblong, tapering to the base. On their surface there are many white hairs. Flowers are collected in spike-shaped inflorescences, have a purple or pink color. Due to the white pubescence of the leaves, they look like silver rugs from the side.
2. Chistets annual. In the wild it is found in Asia, Europe and in Western Siberia. Unlike other plants, it has a branched stem. Its height does not exceed 30–35 cm. At the bottom, the stalks are bare, slightly pubescent appears. In the lower part of the plant are oblong leaves, and the upper leaves are lanceolate. Flowers are also collected in inflorescences and painted in yellow and white. The fruit of the plant is a small nut. The flower is considered a good honey plant.
3. Chistets forest. Widely distributed in Asia, Europe and the Caucasus. The shrub can grow up to 120 cm in height. Shoots are soft, straight, fluffy. Leaves are heart-shaped and ovoid. The upper leaves are thin and oblong. The flowers are long, purple, collected in inflorescences.
4. Chistets is marsh. It grows in Turkey, Europe, is also found in Asian regions with a temperate climate. It grows to 110-120 cm in height. The stems of the plant are covered with soft hairs. The lower leaves are sharp, oblong, with notches along the entire length. The upper leaves are lanceolate. The color is purple, they are collected in inflorescences, consisting of 8-10 flowers.
5. Chistets is large-flowered. It is found only in Asia Minor and the Caucasus. The height of the grass does not exceed 30 cm. The leaves are round, heart-shaped, pointed at the end. The flowers are located on a separate stem, which can grow up to 50 cm in height. The flowers are large, painted in lilac color.

Collection and storage

They have been collecting raw materials since June, when the initial flowering of the initial letter begins. Typically, the plant can be harvested throughout the summer. You need to go for raw materials early in the morning, in sunny and dry weather. The best period for collecting is considered to be the period when the sun has not yet risen high, but the dew has already dried.

Stems must be cut, making a small indent from the roots. You can do this with office scissors or a sharp knife. Villagers can also use a sickle. It is very important to sharpen the tool well, otherwise it is easy to cause damage to the plant, which will lead to the process of decay. It is necessary to cut off only healthy stems, on which there are no traces of insect damage and dry leaves. It is also important to carefully consider the leaves, they may have holes from some insects. If only a small part of the plant is damaged, it can be removed while retaining the rest.Initial letter grows in clearings; during harvesting, it is important to leave 20-30% of the site intact so that the plant can reproduce further.

Picking flowers should be away from roads, cemeteries, businesses and toilets, best of all - in the woods.

You need to take a small bag with you, where to put the cut grass. It is important to avoid injury to the plants, so you do not need to press them tightly, they must lie in loose mass. At home, double-check the material, remove randomly collected grass of other species. It is also necessary to clean the stems of dirt, if any.

The essential oils contained in the grass are highly volatile, so they should be stored in the attic or outdoors under a canopy. To do this, you need to lay it on a dense piece of fabric. You can use special dryers. Spread the grass in a thin layer and dry until tender at a temperature of no higher than 50 degrees.

As soon as the grass is ready, it should be transferred to fabric bags. Subject to all conditions, the shelf life of raw materials may be 2-3 years.

Healing properties of the initial flower

In ancient Greece, the roots of this plant were mainly used; now, its aerial parts are more often used. The herb has a diuretic, anti-inflammatory and soothing effect. Infusions and decoctions are taken in order to lower blood pressure. Initial letter is also known for its analgesic property.

It also has an expectorant and laxative effect. Initial letter is able to remove bile and quickly heal wounds. It was used as a disinfectant.

It is also an immunostimulating plant. Initial letter is used for various viral diseases, including tonsillitis and bronchitis. This allows you to facilitate the course of the disease and accelerate recovery.

Tinctures and decoctions are drunk to improve digestion. This herb will become an indispensable tool for inflammatory processes in the bladder and diseases of the cardiovascular system. Folk doctors recommend using the initial letter for gynecological problems and joint pathologies.

Initial medicine in folk medicine

Initial letter has long occupied its niche in folk medicine. Decoctions and infusions are prepared from it, which are aimed at specific diseases. In addition, they all have a tonic.

Diuretic and choleretic

To this end, prepare an infusion of the roots and leaves of the grass. You need to take them in a ratio of 1: 1, carefully chop, mix and pour one glass of boiling water. Cover, wrap with a towel and insist for 2 hours. Finished product strain and take 1 tbsp. spoon no more than 4 times a day.

In case of disorders in the circulatory system

Prepare a decoction with the addition of port. Also, this tool will be useful for severe bleeding.

To prepare the broth, only the ground part of the plant is used. Need to take 2-3 tbsp. tablespoons of raw materials, grind thoroughly, then pour hot water and put on a slow fire. Cook for another 10-15 minutes, then insist for 1.5-2 hours. Strain the broth and add there 2 tbsp. spoons of port. Take medicine for 1 tbsp. spoon 3-4 times a day.

With diseases of the gastrointestinal tract

Use a decoction from the roots of the plant. This is a good remedy for diarrhea, and it also improves bowel condition.

It will take 1 tbsp. teaspoon of crushed root and 0.5 l of water. Pour the root with warm water, then put on a slow fire and cook for 10 minutes. Then set aside, cool and strain. Drink 150 ml three times a day a few minutes before meals.

With festering wounds

In such cases, the letter-based herbal collection works well. It accelerates wound healing, it can also be used for diseased joints.

For cooking, you need to take 1 tbsp. a spoonful of leaves and flowers of initial letters, the same number of nettle leaves, 1 teaspoon of aloe juice, 20 g of beeswax, burnt alum - at the tip of the spoon. Bring chicken fat to a boil, add plants and other ingredients in the same sequence. Cook over low heat for 60–80 minutes, stirring constantly. Strain the finished medicine through cheesecloth, then cool. Apply the ointment in a small layer on any tissue and tie it to the wound.

Against cough

Chinese traditional medicine also uses this plant. She found a place to treat many diseases, including coughing. This infusion has a tonic effect, effectively liquefies sputum and helps to eliminate it. But it is worth remembering that the initial letter, like other traditional medicine, does not have an instant effect. Therefore, you need to be patient.

To prepare the medicine, take 1 tbsp. a spoonful of chopped grass tops and 200 ml of water. Pour boiling water over the medicine, wrap it tightly and leave for 1–1.5 hours. Then cool to room temperature, strain. Drink 1 tbsp. spoon 2-3 times a day before meals. You can also add a little lemon juice or honey. Then the infusion will be an effective remedy for colds.

With sinusitis

Due to the anti-inflammatory effect, the letter is highly effective in the treatment of sinusitis. This is an extremely unpleasant disease that can lead to serious complications if left untreated. A decoction of this herb is able to dilute the contents of the sinuses and painlessly remove it.

To prepare the broth, the entire terrestrial part of the plant will be required - 2 tbsp. tablespoons and 200 ml of boiling water. Grind the raw materials thoroughly, then pour boiling water and put on low heat for another 5-10 minutes. Then let it brew for 30 minutes. Cool the medicine, drain. Bury the nose at least 5 times a day. The course of treatment lasts until complete recovery. Keep the broth in the refrigerator, and warm up a little before use. You can pour hot water into a bowl, then pour a little broth into a glass and place it in a bowl.

To strengthen immunity

Such a recipe for a decoction not only strengthens the immune system during the period of influenza and other diseases, but also effectively lowers blood pressure. Also, the broth normalizes the metabolic process. It has an anti-inflammatory and diuretic, so it will be useful for diseases of the urinary system.

For cooking, you need 1 tbsp. a spoonful of ground grass and 200 ml of water. Pour the grass with water, then put on low heat, bring to a boil and boil for 15–20 minutes. Set aside, cover and insist until completely cooled, then strain and add 1 teaspoon of honey and mix thoroughly. Drink the contents of 50 ml three times a day 30 minutes before a meal.

For skin diseases

In many countries, decoctions and infusions of initial letters are used to treat skin diseases. The grass accelerates the healing of wounds, disinfects them, and also removes inflammatory processes and helps to draw out purulent acne.

To prepare the medicine you need 2-3 tbsp. tablespoons of herb and 1 liter of boiling water. Grind the grass, then pour boiling water. Insist for an hour. During this time, the infusion should be sufficiently cooled, if not, you can leave it for a short while. Now strain the medicine and pour the contents into the bathroom. You can also add citrus juice, honey or special additives with essential oils to the infusion. From this, the effectiveness of treatment will only be higher. Such a medicine is an effective prevention of varicose veins.

With disorders of the nervous system

The tincture of the flowers of the initial letter has a sedative effect. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect and boasts the ability to strengthen immunity.

To prepare the tincture, you first need to determine the capacity. The amount of ingredients will depend on this. For example, fill a liter jar with flowers exactly half without tamping, then pour 1 liter of vodka to the top. Close the container tightly and put in a dark place for 14 days. The medicine should be infused at room temperature. Shake the jar a little every 5 days. After 2 weeks, carefully strain the medicine for the smallest particles of the plant. This can be done with a dense fabric. It is recommended to repeat the procedure several times. Drink the medicine once a day for 30 drops, after diluting them with water.

For kidney or liver disease

For this purpose, a decoction of roots in milk is used. It is also useful for gout, colitis and other diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. In some cases, it will be useful for gastritis, but first you need to consult a doctor. Such a decoction can also help with hemorrhoids, due to the ability to thin the feces and to safely withdraw them.

For cooking, you need only 15 g of crushed grass and 0.5 l of milk. Pour the initial letter with milk, then put on a slow fire, bring to a boil and cook for another half an hour. Then insist for 1.5–2 hours, after which the medicine is filtered. Drink 50 ml no more than 3 times a day. The course of treatment should not exceed 3 weeks. After the break, it can be resumed. For hepatitis, drink 150 ml once a day for 21 days.

Types of healing compounds

Initially, only decoctions from the roots were used for medicinal purposes as a laxative. Now the ground part of the plant, including flowers, is more often used for the preparation of various infusions and tinctures. Tea is also made from an initial letter, which has a strengthening effect.

Infusion

An infusion of leaves will be useful in inflammatory processes in the body, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, acute respiratory viral infections and high blood pressure. It is used to treat respiratory organs and disorders of the nervous system.

For cooking, you need 200 ml of boiling water and 1 tbsp. spoon of leaves. Grind the raw materials thoroughly, fill with water, then cover and leave for 2 hours, then strain.

With diseases of the stomach or intestines, you should drink no more than 1 tbsp. tablespoons 4 times a day before meals. With hypertension and cough, use 1 tbsp. spoon 4-5 times a day, regardless of food intake, with sinusitis drip into the nose at least 5 times a day. With angina and other inflammatory processes in the oral cavity, gargle regularly.

Tincture

It is recommended for use in disorders of the nervous system and depression. It also helps with hypertension.

For preparation, 200–250 g of plant flowers and 0.5 l of vodka are required. Grind the raw materials thoroughly, then transfer them to a 0.5 l glass jar. It is important that the flowers occupy about a third of the space. If necessary, add them or vice versa. Then pour the flowers with a bottle of vodka to the very edges, tightly cork and move to a dark place. It takes 14 days for the medicine to be ready. Before use, tincture must be filtered.

Drink tincture no more than 3 times a day for 15-25 drops, after diluting them in water. The course of treatment should be 3 weeks, after which take a break.

Decoction

The broth has a diuretic effect, it is used for severe bleeding and disorders in the circulatory system.

For cooking, you need the upper part of the grass (along with the stem) and a glass of water. Finely chop the raw material, then pour boiling water. Then put on low heat and cook for 5-10 minutes. After that, set aside, cover and insist for 2–2.5 hours. Filter the finished medicine.

With bleeding, it is recommended to drink 1-2 tbsp. tablespoons no more than 4 times a day.For the prevention of diseases of the circulatory system, drink no more than 3 times a day for 1 tbsp. spoon.

Tea

It is recommended to drink it as a diuretic, as well as for problems with bronchi, severe coughing and colds. Tea is forbidden to give to children under 3 years.

It’s easy to cook. You need to take 2-3 g of raw materials and pour one cup of boiling water. Insist the medicine for 20-30 minutes, then strain. It is recommended that you drink no more than 3 cups of the drug per day. You can add honey, sugar or lemon to it. Also, if you add mint or lemon balm, you can drink it as a sedative before bedtime.

Initial letter cultivation

It is not always possible to go for raw materials due to its inaccessibility. But this is not a problem, since you can grow an initial letter in your garden. This is an unpretentious plant for which special conditions are not required. The main advantage of the drop cap is its resistance to low temperatures.

Initial letter can grow in any soil, but it is best to provide it with conditions in the wild. To do this, it is necessary to separate the bed with loamy soil separately.

You can also choose any place for planting. Grass grows equally well both in the shade and against the sun. It is optimal to choose a site that is illuminated by the sun for one half of the day, and the other is in the shade. Such a balance will not allow the drop cap to stretch much in height.

The plant must be watered no more than once a week. Fertilizing fertilizers is not required, but it is not prohibited. For the entire season, you can make top dressing no more than 3 times.

Usually, the letter is propagated using seeds, but it can also be in a vegetative way, which involves the division of the plant. This is done in the spring, otherwise the grass may not take root. In this way, plants that bloom for more than one year can be propagated in this way. You should choose shoots whose length exceeds 12 cm.

Contraindications

The main concern is hypotension. The plant has the property of lowering blood pressure, so it is dangerous to use it for people with hypotension. Also, the grass has the ability to improve blood coagulation. Because of this, it is dangerous to take it to people who have a tendency to the appearance of blood clots.

It is also undesirable to take this tool for pregnant women, nursing mothers and the elderly. Initial letter is hypersensitive, so it is dangerous to take it for allergy sufferers.

Caution is necessary to take infusions and decoctions for gastritis with low acidity and serious heart diseases.

This is an incredibly useful plant that has stood the test of time. To this day, it is effectively used in folk medicine. It can be grown on its own site, which will provide itself with high-quality medicinal raw materials every year.

Photo of the initial letter