Cinquefoil, a flowering herb, belongs to ’Potentilla’ genus. It has been used since ages for various purposes.
This flowering herb has many health benefits. It is known to be effective in case of fever, cramps, cough, detoxify the body.
Let’s have a look at its history, uses and side effects!
What Is Cinquefoil?
Cinquefoil is a flowering herb which has palmate leaves. Some species have three leaflets, while others have 15 or more leaflets arranged pinnately. The flowers of this herb are yellow, but sometimes they are red, pinkish or even white.
Most often its fruits look like strawberries, but they are very dry. Therefore, they are also called as Barren Strawberries.
Cinquefoils mostly grow in cold regions of the world. These plants have a creeping habit. The stem runners of this plant often reach up to five feet.
Nutritional Content Of Cinquefoil
Cinquefoil contains a variety of nutrients in it. Following is the list of some useful nutrients present in it:
- Tannins
- Resins
- Starch
- Glycine
- Tormentor
- Choline
- Amino acids
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Sulphur
- Iron
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Vitamin C
- Bioflavonoids
Preparation Of Cinquefoil
Method 1
Ingredients
- 10 gm of fresh cinquefoil leaves
- 5 gm of fresh valerian leaves
- 1-liter water
Procedure
Boil these fresh leaves in given quantity of water for 5 minutes and drink 1 cup of it four times daily.
Method 2
Ingredients
- Powdered cinquefoil
- Water (half a liter)
Procedure
Prepare a mixture of 2 teaspoons of powdered cinquefoil and half liter water. Boil it for 15 minutes. Consume this daily for three times.
Method 3
Ingredients
- Fresh cinquefoil leaves
- Water
Procedure
Boil some leaves in half a liter of water. Allow the herb to steep in the water for 20 minutes before straining and cooling. This can be applied as a moist compress on affected areas of the body for relief.
Health Benefits Of Cinquefoil
Since olden days, this herb is used for many medicinal purposes. Listed below are benefits of cinquefoil herb:
1. Used As An Astringent
Cinquefoil is an herbal astringent. It was as astringent since medieval times. It has tannic acid which makes it effective as an astringent.
2. Fever
It is known to cure fever and other related problems.
3. Healthy Vegetable
It is used as a vegetable in Europe. It can be eaten raw or cooked into a variety of dishes.
4. Fractures
Cinquefoil is very effective in curing fractures and also osteoporosis.
5. Detoxification
This herb has excellent detoxifying properties. It is known to detoxify our body.
6. Addiction To Nicotine
This herb helps people to give up tobacco and smoking cigarettes that contain nicotine. Also, it helps people to give up cocaine.
7. A Cough
Cinquefoil mixed with honey removes soreness and hoarseness in the throat.
8. Skin Irritations
It is used as a bath additive to cure redness on the skin or irritated skin. It is also used as a soothing lotion.
9. Cramps
It is very effective against premenstrual cramps and contractions during childbirth.
10. Diarrhea
Cinquefoil is used as a treatment for all gastrointestinal problems. It is effective against diarrhea.
11. Odontalgic Nature
It is used as a gargle for loose teeth, spongy gums, and periodontal diseases.
Side Effects Of Cinquefoil
It is known to have least side effects. It is considered safe for most people, but there are some minor side effects observed after consumption of cinquefoil in some people.
i. Pregnancy
There is nothing exactly known about the impact of Cinquefoil on pregnant women. So, it is recommended that pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid its use.
ii. Stomach Irritation
It is known to cause some minor stomach irritations in some people.
iii. Skin Irritation
As it is used as an astringent, it can sometimes cause skin irritations.
It is always recommended to consume this herb as directed by the professional. It helps to avoid unnecessary side effects.
Properties Of Cinquefoil
There are a lot of medicinal properties that are possessed by cinquefoil herb. They are listed below:
i. Antispasmodic
This property helps to relieve spasm of involuntary muscle.
ii. Astringent
This property helps to stop bleeding.
iii. Anti-Inflammatory
It is used to reduce inflammation.
iv. Diuretic
It regulates the passage of urine.
v. Tonic
It is used as a tonic for treating many diseases.
vi. Antiphlogistic
This property also helps to reduce inflammation.
vii. Antiseptic
It is a well good antiseptic. It kills germs and prevents the growth of disease-causing microorganisms, thereby preventing the spread of diseases.
viii. Hemostatics
This property helps to stop bleeding, i.e., it helps in blood clotting.
