Agrimony (agrimonya in tagalog)

(Agrimonia eupatoria) Part used: Herb. Properties: Hepatic, stomachic, astringent, diuretic, tonic. What it affects: Stomach, liver, and intestines.

Preparation and amount:  Decoction: 1 oz. to 1/4 pints of water. Simmer down to 1 pint. Take 3-5 Tbsp. 3-4 times daily. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops 3-4 times daily. Fluid extract: Take ¼ tsp. 3-4 times daily. Powder: Take 5-10 #0 capsules (30-60 grains) 3 times daily.

Purposes:  Internally, American Indians used agrimony as a tonic to strengthen the whole system. It is specifically used for all digestive disorders and for strengthening the stomach, intestines, liver, gallbladder, and kidneys. A strong decoction of root and leaves is used to treat pimples, skin blotches, and ulcers. An infusion of the leaves can treat jaundice and other liver problems. It is used for inflammatory diseases. When combined with a demulcent (mullein or slippery elm), a douche made from the leaves can be effectively used for excess vaginal secretions.

Externally, a fomentation containing agrimony is applied to athlete’s foot, scores, wounds, insect bites, and skin eruptions. It can also be taken internally for bites and stings. A tincture applied to the skin will draw out thorns and splinters.

Note:  Gentian root (Gentiana) works like agrimony as a bitter tonic, to stimulate the digestive organs. For this purposes, both herbs are prepared as a tea, using one ounce to a pint of water. Agrimony is quite bitter and contains about 5% tannins, which adds to its astringency. 

Warning:  It should not be used when there is a dryness of the body secretions.