Hemp agrimony (Eupatorium cannabinum Compositae/Asteraceae)

Other Names: Holy Rope, Horse Mane

Hemp Agrimony, a herbaceous perennial native to moist forests, swamps, and riverbanks of Europe, Asia, and North Africa, grows up to 1.5 meters tall. It features hairy leaves on red stems and dense clusters of tiny pink or purple flowers in late summer. Ripe fruits bear a tuft of delicate white leaves.

Parts for Use

Whole Plant

1. Leaves are collected in spring before blooming.
2. Roots are dug in spring or autumn.
3. Flowers are harvested at the end of the flowering period in early autumn.
4. All parts are dried for use in preparations and tinctures.

Ingredients

The leaves contain essential oil, giving the plant its characteristic scent, along with bitter compounds, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, pyrrolizidine alkaloids, and resin. The roots include essential oil, bitter compounds, and pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

Use in Treatment

Hemp Agrimony is valued for its detoxifying properties, supporting kidney and liver function. It is used to treat skin conditions like acne caused by bile and liver dysfunction. Animal studies show that its bitter compounds stimulate bile secretion and offer liver protection. The essential oil component p-cymene enhances immunity against viral infections such as flu, colds, and sore throats. Recent research highlights eupatoriopicrin, a bitter compound in leaves and roots, for its potential anti-cancer properties, currently under detailed study.

Cultivation

Hemp Agrimony thrives in moist soil in sunny or semi-shady locations and can be grown from seeds in spring.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Liver and Kidney Disease)

1. Infusions and tinctures should only be used under the guidance of a herbalist due to potential risks.

For External Use (Skin Irritation, Freckles, Pimples, Acne)

1. Tincture or Decoction: Steep 2 to 4 teaspoons in one liter of boiling water, cool, apply to a compress, and place on affected areas.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
3. Internal use requires supervision by a herbalist.
4. Adhere strictly to prescribed amounts.
5. High doses of pyrrolizidine alkaloids may be toxic.