The numerous different types of knotweed include not only edible (and very tasty) varieties, but also medicinal plants that have been used for centuries. Known as such are the meadow knotweed (Bistorta officinalis, also known as snakeroot) and the bird knotweed (Polygonum aviculare), which are primarily consumed in the form of tea or in tea mixtures.
What is knotweed tea good for?
Meadow knotweed tea and bird knotweed tea are medicinal teas made from dried leaves and roots of meadow knotweed (Bistorta officinalis) and bird knotweed (Polygonum aviculare). They can help with stomach problems, sore throats, respiratory diseases and inflammation of the mouth and throat.
Meadow knotweed tea
The dried leaves of the local meadow knotweed are used for infusions. The tea is said to be particularly helpful as a gargle for stomach inflammation and other stomach problems, as well as for sore throats. In addition to the leaves, the rhizomes of the plant can also be used. By the way, the leaves are not only suitable for medicinal purposes, but can also be prepared as a kind of wild spinach.
Collection time for meadow knotweed
Leaves and roots of the meadow knotweed can be collected from May until autumn. The leaves for infusions are dried in a dark and warm place, either hanging loosely or spreading them out on a towel. The washed and sliced roots can also be dried in the same way. Meadow knotweed contains a lot of oxalic acid and should therefore be used with caution, especially by sensitive people, kidney patients and pregnant women. Oxalic acid levels increase as the year progresses.
Bird knotweed tea
The annual bird knotweed can also be used both as a vegetable and for medicinal purposes. The young shoots as well as the leaves are a tasty vegetable not only for birds but also for humans. All above-ground parts of the plant can be processed as an infusion and used for various respiratory diseases. The ingredients of bird knotweed encourage the expectoration of mucus and are therefore particularly suitable for catarrh. The tea can also be used to rinse inflammation in the mouth and throat, as well as to treat skin impurities. The main ingredients are silica and various tannins, especially gallotannins and flavonoids. All parts of the plant are collected during the flowering period.
Tip
In addition to the two species described, dock knotweed can also be used both as a vegetable and as a medicinal herb against mouth and skin infections as well as stomach problems.