Meadowsweet As Alternative Medicine

Meadowsweet As Alternative Medicine

Meadowsweet has been used as an alternative medicine by herbalists for hundreds of years. To the Celtic people such as the Druids this herb is very sacred. In Europe it is used to fight obesity and cellulite. In Germany it is an approved herb for medicinal uses. Meadowsweet and willow bark are the two common herbs often used in place of aspirin.

1. It is the best remedy for digestive problems such as heartburn, peptic ulcers, diarrhea, gastritis and indigestion.
2. It is used to ease pains associated with sore joints, arthritis, rheumatism, sprains, menstrual cramps and headache.
3. It is a treatment for colds, flu and respiratory complaints such as cough and bronchitis.
4. It is a diuretic used to treat water retention.
5. It is a sedative that promotes sleep and eases insomnia.

Every part of the meadowsweet plant including the flowers is used for medicinal purposes. This herb is available in tea, capsules and dried form. An infusion is the best way to use meadowsweet. It is gentler and does not irritate the stomach as aspirin. Very often it is used in combination with other herbs to treat irritable bowel syndrome.

Meadowsweet is not recommended for pregnant or nursing women and asthma sufferers. Those people who are taking Warfarin and other blood thinning medicine must also refrain from using it. In addition anyone who has an allergy to Aspirin must avoid this herb. Taking this herb in excess or for long period can cause kidney damage or stomach upset. Meadowsweet is another alternative medicine that needs to be used with caution.