It's Self Heal, one of many plants also called Allheal. Other common names for it include Prunella, Xia ku cao, Healwort, Heal All, Woundwort, Sicklewort, Brunella, Sough Heal, Hook Heal, Heart of the Earth, Blue Curls, Wood Sanicle. A favourite throughout the centuries, but no longer used much.

An infusion of the leaves taken thrice daily will soothe inflamed membranes associated with diarrhoea. Applied to cuts, it will stop bleeding and reduce scarring. It is one of the best wound herbs. Use as a gargle and mouthwash for sore throats and laryngitis. Apply juice of leaves, flowers or root to alleviate a headache. Useful in the treatment of haemorrhoids and heavy menstruation. Good for sprains, burns, cuts, diabetic sores, boils, conjunctivitis, tinnitus, vertigo, hepatitis, jaundice, swollen glands. and bruises. Infusions or weak decoctions are used for heart ailments, acne, bruises, burns, cuts, and diabetic sores. Use the tea as a gargle to throat irritations, or chew the leaves for sort throats. The tea can be used as a wash for inflamed or sore eyes. Research indicates in may be useful in the treatment of AIDS, heart disease, venereal disease and cancer. The flowers can be used in infusion for children who are hyperactive.

The young plant can be eaten raw or cooked.

Will grow in sun or shade and cover an area quickly. Will tolerate almost any soil, but prefers to be kept moist, and grows best in partial shade.

wow, thanks a lot. What an amazing herb! I'll be holding onto it - and it's growing in a large pot at the moment, where it's sheltered from the afternoon sun.

where do you get all your info, Daisy, you seem to know so much!!

cheers
freckle

I have a large data base I've put together, after 40 years of research!!

Re harvesting of Self Heal: Collect aerial parts as required, but preferably while in flower at midsummer. Dry for later use. Spent flower stalks can be harvested in autumn to be dried for use in decoctions.

thanks, I might harvest some soon.

freckle