Herb Profile: Self Heal

Self Heal, All Heal, Prunella vulgaris, Lamiaceae

A native to Europe and Asia and now naturalized to North America, Self Heal is commonly found growing beneath our feet. Also known as All Heal and a member of the mint family. Self Heal’s mucilagenous quality makes it great as a “Barefoot Medicine;” it can be picked and directly applied to a wound. In fact it is considered one of the most reliable plants for wound healing working by drawing out heat and infection. In Europe, Self Heal was traditionally used for tonsilitis and has also been beneficial for dental decay. All Heal is also nourishing and building to the kidneys and in this way improved urination. 

 

Preparations

Traditionally it is the upper parts of the plant that is used fresh or dry and can be made into a tea, tincture or oil and salve.

 

Cautions/Contraindications

None.

 

Disclaimer

The information on this page has not been approved by the FDA. Please consult your healthcare practitioner before using herbal products. We do not endorse the websites linked to in the resources and have not extensively reviewed all the information on external pages for accuracy. Everyone reacts differently to herbs and we do not attempt to be completely inclusive in the information and contraindications for each herb.