Botanical Overview
Prunella vulgaris, commonly known as Self-heal or Heal-all, is a member of the Lamiaceae family. Native to temperate regions of Europe, Asia, and North America, the plant’s aerial parts including leaves and flowers are used medicinally.
Energetics
Prunella vulgaris has a cooling temperature and moistening moisture quality. Its taste profile includes bitter, astringent, and sweet. It is considered relaxing in tonicity and influences the body’s qi.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antiviral
- Astringent
- Demulcent
- Antioxidant
- Wound healing
Indications
Western
- Sore throat
- Skin wounds and minor burns
- Inflammation
- Common cold
- Fever
- Diarrhea
Syndromes
- Inflammatory conditions
- Upper respiratory tract infections
- Gastrointestinal complaints
- Cutaneous lesions
TCM
- Heat in the liver meridian
- Sore throat
- Swelling
- Boils
- Abscesses
Syndromes
- Heat toxin
- Liver fire
- Skin ulcers
Ayurveda
- Fever
- Skin diseases
- Wounds
- Excess Pitta symptoms
Syndromes
- Pitta imbalance
- Inflammatory disorders
Unani
- Internal bleeding
- Inflammatory swellings
- Cold
- Fever
Syndromes
- Humoral imbalance involving blood and bile
Constituents & Mechanisms
The herb contains rosmarinic acid, oleanolic acid, ursolic acid, tannins, flavonoids, phenolic acids, and triterpenoids contributing to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 2-4 g taken 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL taken 1-3 times daily
- Topical poultices or ointments applied to wounds or inflamed areas
Safety & Contraindications
Generally regarded as safe when used appropriately. Avoid use in pregnancy and lactation due to insufficient data. Potential interactions with immunosuppressant medications may occur due to immune-stimulating properties.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-established planetary or elemental rulers have been confidently assigned to Prunella vulgaris.
Selected References
- Prunella vulgaris – Plants For A Future Database
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants – Volume 3: Prunella vulgaris L., World Health Organization, 1999
- Assessment report on Prunella vulgaris L., herba, European Medicines Agency, 2015
- Chinese Herbal Medicine Materia Medica, Bensky et al., 2004
- Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India