Restharrow (Ononis spinosa Leguminosae)

Other Names: Spiny Restharrow, Wolf Thorn

Restharrow is a herbaceous perennial found across Europe in dry grasslands, natural hedges, and along rural roads. It grows 30 to 60 centimeters tall with erect, prickly stems. The woody roots have an unpleasant odor but a sweet taste similar to licorice (Glycyrrhiza). In summer, it produces pinkish-white butterfly-shaped flowers, followed by hairy oval pods containing up to three round seeds.

Parts for Use

Roots

1. Roots can be harvested year-round, ideally in spring or autumn.
2. After drying, roots are finely crushed to prepare infusions, liquid extracts, or tinctures.
3. Spiny restharrow is often combined with diuretic plants like pine and parsley.

Ingredients

The roots contain a small amount of essential oil, along with phenols that reduce inflammation, lectins, medicarpine, and triterpenoids, particularly onocerin.

Use in Treatment

Spiny restharrow has diuretic effects, likely due to its essential oil and flavonoid derivatives, particularly α-onocerin. It is used internally for fluid retention, kidney inflammation (nephritis), cystitis, and to prevent gallstones and kidney stones. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it effective for treating rheumatism and gout. Root decoctions can also be applied externally to treat eczema and other skin conditions.

Cultivation

Spiny restharrow thrives in well-drained soil under full sun and can be grown from seeds.

Preparation and Dosage

For Internal Use (Urinary Retention, Gout, Kidney Inflammation, Cystitis, Rheumatism)

1. Infusion: Place one teaspoon of roots in a cup of boiling water, steep for 15 minutes, strain, and drink one cup three times daily.
2. Tincture: Add 40 drops to a glass of water and take three times daily between meals.

For External Use (Eczema and Skin Conditions)

1. Decoction: Boil 20 grams of dried root in 750 ml of water until reduced by about one-third, cool, and apply to the skin two to three times daily.

Warnings

1. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
2. Do not use restharrow for fluid retention caused by heart or kidney problems without medical supervision.
3. No adverse side effects have been reported when used in therapeutic amounts.