Botanical Overview
Filipendula ulmaria, commonly known as Meadowsweet, Queen of the meadow, or Meadwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Rosaceae family. It is native to Europe and Western Asia but has been introduced to North America as well. The parts used medicinally include the flowers, leaves, and roots.
Energetics
Filipendula ulmaria is considered cooling in temperature and drying in moisture. It displays bitter, astringent, sweet, and acrid tastes. The plant’s actions are generally descending and outward in direction, with a relaxing tonicity and a primary influence on the qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Analgesic
- Diaphoretic
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Antipyretic
Indications
Western
- Fever
- Headache
- Rheumatic pain
- Gastric ulcers
- Diarrhea
- Inflammation
- Cough
- Kidney stones
- Urinary tract infections
Syndromes
- Rheumatism
- Osteoarthritis
- Gastritis
- Dyspepsia
- Cystitis
- Common cold
TCM
No well-established traditional Chinese medicine indications documented in reputable sources.
Ayurveda
No definitive Ayurvedic indications documented.
Unani
No specific Unani indications documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Filipendula ulmaria contains bioactive phytochemicals including salicylates (notably methylsalicylate), flavonoids, tannins, essential oils, and phenolic glycosides. These constituents confer its characteristic anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and diuretic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-3 g dried flowers per cup, 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 45% ethanol, 2-5 mL, 2-3 times daily
- Standardized extracts to salicylates are also used clinically
Safety & Contraindications
Meadowsweet is generally safe when used appropriately but should be avoided in patients allergic to salicylates or aspirin. It is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation due to its salicylate content and potential risk. Caution is advised in individuals with bleeding disorders or those on anticoagulant or antiplatelet therapy, as interactions may enhance bleeding risk. Mild gastric irritation may occur in sensitive individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable or consistent sources were found to attribute planetary or elemental rulers to Filipendula ulmaria.
Selected References
- European Medicines Agency (EMA) Herbal Monograph on Filipendula ulmaria (2015)
- Plants For A Future (PFAF) Database by Ken Fern (2019)
- Hegnauer, R. Chemotaxonomy of Medicinal Plants (1964)
- McNaughton, S. A. Herbal Medicines: Meadowsweet Overview (1985)