Genus & Species (Latin name): Prunella vulgaris
Family: Lamiaceae (mint family)
Common Names: heal-all, carpenter's weed, woundwort, touch-and-heal, heart o'the earth
Parts used: aerial parts
Taste: Mildly similar to rosemary
Energetics: cool/dispersive, drying yet mucilaginous
Properties/Actions: antioxidant, vulnerary, antiviral (herpes), immune modulator, lymphatic, styptic, anti-inflammatory, diuretic, biofilm disrupter, demulcent, astringent, febrifuge, tonic
Tissue State Affinities: lymphatic system, vascular system, kidneys, liver
Warnings: Generally regarded as safe, but potentially best to avoid frequent use in those with weak digestion, pregnancy, or lactation without consulting a provider first
Distribution: Native to Europe, Asia, and North America, Prunella vulgaris thrives in a variety of habitats, including open fields, meadows, lawns, and waste places. This herbaceous plant has adapted well to different climates and can be found across a wide geographical range.
Monograph:
The moment I stumbled upon self-heal in my garden, I couldn't help but do a little happy jig as I marveled at its petite stature, reaching only a few inches tall. I nearly missed its presence altogether, but after spotting the first one, more and more plants revealed their presence to me. With compact spikes of tubular flowers in shades of royal purple, self-heal stole my heart and sparked my curiosity about its hidden healing prowess.
An old Italian proverb states, "He that hath selfheal and sanicle needs no other physician." With each passing day, I began to understand the weight and truth of these words; its name "heal-all" reflects the belief in its broad-spectrum healing properties as well as its being an herb sent by God. As we delve deeper into the secrets of self-heal, we unveil God's profound herbal gift that holds the promise of healing and protection.
Throughout history, self-heal has earned a treasured place in traditional medicine. Revered by various cultures, it has been hailed as a miraculous herb for promoting wound healing, soothing inflamed tissues, and easing minor skin irritations. In traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), Self-heal has been used to clear heat, reduce swelling, and promote healthy liver and gallbladder function.
Modern herbalists highly esteem self-heal for its remarkable versatility. This multifaceted herb boasts an array of beneficial properties. Its potent antioxidants combat oxidative stress, safeguarding cells from damage, while its vulnerary actions promote effective wound healing and tissue repair. Moreover, self-heal is recognized for its anti-inflammatory and styptic actions, effectively reducing inflammation and promoting hemostasis, respectively. Its diuretic properties stimulate urine production, supporting kidney function and the elimination of toxins. With its demulcent and astringent qualities, self-heal provides soothing protection to mucous membranes while toning and tightening tissues. Researchers have also discovered its potential to disrupt biofilms, making it a valuable ally in combatting stubborn infections. Notably, self-heal exhibits promising antiviral activity, particularly against herpes and retroviruses, even holding potential in the fight against coronaviruses. The herb's lymphatic properties foster healthy lymph flow, aiding in the efficient elimination of waste from the body. Acting as an immune modulator, self-heal skillfully supports and balances the immune system, ensuring optimal responses to potential threats. Embracing a comprehensive role, self-heal further acts as a tonic, gently revitalizing the body.
Anti-Cancer
There has been much research looking into the protection of Prunella vulgaris (self-heal), particularly its protective benefits against cancer. Studies have shown promising results, indicating that self-heal may offer a useful therapy for addressing thyroid health, including thyroid cancer, as it exhibits the ability to target and combat thyroid cancer cells effectively. Furthermore, this remarkable herb has shown potential in treating various other cancers, such as uterine, breast (anti-estrogenic qualities), liver, and lung cancers.
Skin Health
Beyond its role in cancer research, self-heal's significance extends to skin health, thanks to its vulnerary and antioxidant properties. In the face of the harmful effects of UV radiation, which can lead to cell damage and even skin cancer, self-heal emerges as a formidable ally. Scientific investigations into its photoprotective benefits, enriched by its abundance of rosmarinic acid (a natural antioxidant also found abundantly in rosemary), have revealed substantial protection against UVA and UVB DNA damage when applied topically. The evidence surrounding Prunella vulgaris' noteworthy potential in cancer research and its role in nurturing skin health through photoprotective abilities ignites hope and admiration for the power potential of this unassuming herb.
This is one herb that is a great choice for topical herbal preparations, such as a daily moisturizing oil or mixed with plantain as a general skin salve. In addition to being vulnerary, self-heal is also a styptic herb, meaning that it can slow or stop bleeding by constricting (astringing) the blood vessels. Used along with yarrow or shepherd's purse, it is a great option for a wound wash.
Antiviral
Self-heal has shown antimicrobial properties. A formidable combatant against a wide array of pathogens, self-heal deploys multiple strategies to thwart their proliferation. By inhibiting the binding ability of viruses, it curtails their replication, while its ability to disrupt biofilms renders bacteria more vulnerable to our body's defenses. This potent antimicrobial power renders self-heal an ideal herbal ally in the face of infections, even when the specific pathogen may remain unidentified. Studies have shown that it is effective against herpes, HPV, and HIV. A recent study showed that self-heal may be a contender to treat acyclovir-resistant herpes strains. The herb not only demonstrated the ability to substantially and consistently inhibit acyclovir-resistant herpes strains but also outperformed acyclovir itself, a prominent antiviral used as a positive control. These findings provide robust support for considering self-heal as a potential resource in anti-herpes simplex virus therapy.
Intriguing in vitro investigations have unveiled self-heal's prowess in confronting HIV, demonstrating its capability to inhibit viral replication within the confines of a petri dish. The researchers spearheading these studies have been buoyed by their encouraging findings, urging further exploration and testing to unlock even greater potential. In the realm of coronaviruses, a compelling 2021 study concluded that self-heal extracts might serve as a novel approach to addressing coronavirus infections based on promising in vitro results. The potential implications of these discoveries are truly captivating, offering the prospect of a new avenue in our battle against viral adversaries.
Diabetes and Cardiac Health
Self-heal emerges as a potent ally in the battle against metabolic syndrome and diabetes, showcasing its impressive ability to increase insulin sensitivity as well as modulate inflammation associated with cardiovascular disease. In test tube and rodent studies, certain compounds within the herb have displayed inhibitory effects on enzymes responsible for breaking down and metabolizing carbohydrates. As a result, blood sugar levels may be lowered, offering improved diabetes control.
Moreover, Prunella vulgaris exhibits promise in shielding against atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by arterial hardening potentially from cholesterol plaques that elevates the risk of heart attacks. An 8-week study involving diabetic mice placed on a high-fat, high-cholesterol diet found that administering Prunella vulgaris extract led to notable reductions in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides. Furthermore, the extract contributed to improvements in heart function, suggesting that Prunella vulgaris may be beneficial in the prevention of diabetic atherosclerosis.
While these findings point to the potential benefits of Prunella vulgaris in reducing blood sugar levels and combating diabetes-associated atherosclerosis, further research is essential to establish if similar effects can be observed in humans using the whole herb rather than isolated extracts.
Lymphatic System
The lymphatic system serves as our body's diligent "cleanup crew" during and after illnesses, and self-heal readily supports its vital functions. Self-heal is a great choice when addressing issues of lymphatic stagnation, spanning from edema to fibroids, cysts, and swollen pelvic floor organs. Herbalist Christopher Sauer would prescribe a blend of self-heal and plantain water, used as a warm compress to alleviate inflammations of the privates in both men and women. The use of both internal consumption as tea and external poultices prove effective in reviving lymphatic flow.
Per herbalist David Winston, in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), self-heal, earns reverence for its ability to soften hardness, tackling lumps and enlarged lymph nodes. TCM practitioners utilize it to address goiters, lipomas, mumps, mastitis, lymphosarcoma, and scrofula, illuminating its multifaceted therapeutic repertoire.
Unleashing the dual potency of self-heal in addressing stagnant lymph nodes and nodules, alongside its potential as an anti-estrogenic agent against estrogen-dependent tumors, this unassuming herb holds remarkable promise as an ally in the battle against breast cancer.
Respiratory System
Self-heal, like astragalus, is also rich in polysaccharides which are known to be immunomodulating.
These immune-balancing compounds support to a healthy immune system and may even lower the incidence of upper respiratory infections when consumed regularly. Historically, self-heal has been revered for its efficacy in alleviating sore throats, including infected and swollen tonsils. At the onset of a cold with a sore throat, sipping a comforting cup of hot self-heal tea can gently soothe and coat a dry, scratchy, or irritated throat.
In the realm of allergies and inflammation, self-heal really showcases its impressive immunomodulating effects, skillfully tempering excessive immune responses that typify seasonal allergies and chronic inflammation. Integrating regular consumption of self-heal tea may bring relief to those grappling with seasonal allergy symptoms through its multifaceted abilities to nurture kidney health, modulate immune responses, and promote lymph circulation, self-heal emerges as a comforting remedy, quelling the discomfort often associated with seasonal allergies.
Kidneys
Herbalist William LeSassier held self-heal in high regard for its remarkable kidney-strengthening abilities.
Beyond its kidney-strengthening prowess, self-heal boasts mild diuretic properties that make it beneficial for expelling edema and dampness. Additionally, its diuretic action may aid in reducing high blood pressure, presenting another avenue for potential therapeutic support. A 2017 study showed that self-heal offers a protective effect against diabetic renal dysfunction, suggesting that Prunella vulgaris holds promise as a potential therapeutic option for targeting conditions related to diabetic nephropathy.
In recognizing the wondrous presence of self-heal, we cannot help but acknowledge the divine hand of God in bestowing upon us this remarkable herbal gift. How best is self-heal used? It makes a wonderful cooling tea, can be used as a wound wash or compress, and can be made into a tincture, oxymel, infused oil, or salve.
Recipes:
Self-Heal Oxymel - infused sweetened vinegar
2 cups fresh self-heal, leaves and flowers
1/2 lemon sliced with peel
1/2-1 cup raw honey
Organic raw apple cider vinegar
Place self-heal and sliced lemon into a pint jar, add the honey, and fill the remainder with apple cider vinegar. Cover the jar with a plastic lid, and gently swirl around to be sure the vinegar contacts all the herbs. Place in a cool location out of direct sunlight. Allow to infuse for 2-4 weeks. Strain out the herbs with a fine mesh strainer. Store the strained oxymel in a cool place, such as the refrigerator. It will keep for at least 6 months. Can be used daily during cold and flu season to try to stave off infections. If you feel a sickness coming on, can take 1 Tbsp two to three times a day, you may prefer to mix it in another drink.
Cooling Sun Tea
2 Tbsp fresh self-heal leaves and flowers, chopped
2 Tbsp fresh lemon balm leaves, chopped
1 tsp dried rosehips (optional)
1-quart water
Place all of the herbs in a quart jar and fill the jar with water. Cover the jar and let it sit in the sun for several hours. Strain through a fine-mesh strainer. Store in the refrigerator. Drink within 48 hours.
Daily Moisturizing Oil
1 cup carrier oil (jojoba, argan oil, raspberry seed oil, or grapeseed oil are nice choices)
1/2 cups wilted self-heal, leaves and flowers)
1 1/2 tsp rosemary antioxidant extract (optional)
1/2 tsp wild carrot seed oil (optional)
Place wilted self-heal into a pint jar and cover with carrier oil. Cover and infuse for 3 to 4 weeks, checking on it frequently to give it a gentle shake. Strain the mixture through several layers of cheesecloth or muslin. Add optional additional oils at this time and stir well. If desired, transfer the oil into a clean dropper or pump bottle using a funnel to prevent a mess. To use, rub a small amount into your face and neck daily.
References
Young, Devon. The Backyard Herbal Apothecary, Effective Medicinal Remedies Using Commonly Found Herbs & Plants, Page Street, 2019
Yu, F.; Zhang, L.; Ma, R.; Liu, C.; Wang, Q. (2021) The Antitumour Effect of Prunella vulgaris Extract on Thyroid Cancer Cells in Vitro and In Vivo. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med.
Lin, Y.; Yang, C.; Tang, T=J.; Li, C.; Zhang, Z.; Xia, B.; Li, Y.; He, Q.; Lin, L.; Liao, D. (2020) Characterization and anti-uterine tumor effect of extract from Prunella vulgaris L. BMC Complement Med Ther.
Luo, H.; Zhao, L.; Li, Y.; Xia, B.; Lin, Y.; Xie, J.; Wu, P.; Liao, D.; Zhang, Z.; Lin, L. (2022) An in vivo and in vitro assessment of the anti-breast cancer activity of crude extract and fractions from Prunella vulgaris L. Heliyon.
Zhao, J.; Ji, D.; Zhai, X.; Zhang, L.; Luo, X.; Fu, X. (2018) Oral Administration of Prunella vulgaris L Improves the Effect of Taxane on Preventing the Progression of Breast Cancer and Reduces Its Side Effects. Front Pharmacol.
Kim, S.; Huang, C.; Tsai, C.; Lu, S.; Chiu, C.; Fang, K. (2012) The aqueous extract of Prunella vulgaris suppresses cell invasion and migration in human liver cancer cells by attenuating matrix metalloproteinases Am J Chin Med.
Feng, L.; Jia, X.; Shi, F.; Chen, Y (2010) Identification of Two Polysaccharides from Prunella vulgaris L. and Evaluation on Their Anti-Lung Adenocarcinoma Activity. Molecules.
Feng, L.; Jia, X.; Zhu, M.; Chen, Y.; Shi, F. (2010) Chemoprevention by Prunella vulgaris L. extract of non-small cell lung cancer via promoting apoptosis and regulating the cell cycle. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev.
Psotova, J.; Svobodova, A.; Kolarova, H.; Walterova, D. (2006) Photoprotective properties of Prunella vulgaris and rosmarinic acid on human keratinocytes. Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology
Vostalova, J.; Zdarilova, A.; Svobodova, A. (2010) Prunella vulgaris extract and rosmarinic acid prevent UVB-induced DNA damage and oxidative stress in HaCaT keratinocytes. Arch Dermatol Res.
Zhang, Q.; Li, Y.; Zhong, X.; Fu, W.; Luo, X.; Feng, J.; Yuan, M.; Xiao, L.; Xu, H. (2021) Polyphenolic-protein-polysaccharide conjugates from Spica of Prunella vulgaris: Chemical profile and anti-herpes simplex virus activities. Int J Biol Macromol.
Ao, Z.; Chan, M.; Ouyang, M.; Olukitibi, T.; Mahmoudi, M.; Kobasa, D.; Yao, X. (2021) Identification and evaluation of the inhibitory effect of Prunella vulgaris extract on SARS-coronavirus 2 virus entry. PLoS One.
Hwang, S.M.; Kim, J.S.; Lee, Y.J.; Yoon, J.J.; Lee, S.M.; Kang, D.G.; Lee, H.S. (2012) Anti-diabetic atherosclerosis effect of Prunella vulgaris in db/db mice with type 2 diabetes. Am J Chin Med.
Yu, Q.; Wang, J.; Liu, S.; Yu, B. (2015) Pentacyclic triterpenoids from spikes of Prunella vulgaris L. inhibit glycogen phosphorylase and improve insulin sensitivity in 3T3-L1 adipocytes. Phytother Res.
Raafat, K.; Wurglics, M.; Schubert-Zsilavecz, M. (2016) Prunella vulgaris L. active components and their hypoglycemic and antinociceptive effects in alloxan-induced diabetic mice. Biomed Pharmacother.
Namgung, S.; Yoon, J.J.; Yoon, C.; Han, B.H.; Choi, E.S.; Oh, H.; Kim, Y.; Lee, Y.J.; Kang, D.G.; Lee, H.S. (2017) Prunella vulgaris Attenuates Diabetic Renal Injury by Suppressing Glomerular Fibrosis and Inflammation. Am J Chin Med.
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