Agrimonia eupatoria

🌿 Common Agrimony

Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is a perennial herb from the Rosaceae family, known for its tall, slender spikes of yellow flowers and distinctive serrated leaves. It has been traditionally used in European and folk medicine for its astringent, anti-inflammatory, and digestive-supporting properties. Agrimony is valued for its ability to tone tissues, soothe sore throats, aid digestion, and support liver health. Due to its mild bitter taste and tannin content, it is often used as a tea, tincture, or gargle. Found in meadows, hedgerows, and roadsides, it thrives in well-drained soils with full sun exposure. 🌿✨
Scientific Name: Agrimonia eupatoria
Common Name: Common Agrimony | Church Steeples | Stickwort | Cocklebur |  Liverwort
Kingdom: Plantae
Division: Magnoliophyta
Class: Magnoliopsida
Order: Rosales
Family: Rosaceae
Genus: Agrimonia
Species: Agrimonia eupatoria
Origin: Native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia

Energetics of the Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

In herbal energetics, Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria) is traditionally classified based on its effects on the body. Here’s how it is typically described:

Temperature
Slightly Warming
Helps soothe inflammation and irritation.
Moistening | Drying

Drying
Helps with excessive mucus, damp digestive issues, and loose tissues.
Tissue State Tendency
Lax/Atrophic
Tones and tightens tissues, making it useful for diarrhea, excessive sweating, and leaky gut.
Taste
Bitter, Astringent, Slightly Aromatic
Aids digestion, reduces excessive secretions, and has a mild uplifting effect on mood.
Elemental Association
Air & Fire
Promotes clarity, circulation, and energetic warmth, while drying excess dampness.

Slightly warming
Used to stimulate digestion, improve circulation, and relieve cold, sluggish conditions. Traditionally taken as a tea or tincture for poor circulation and cold extremities.

Drying
Applied to conditions with excess dampness, such as diarrhea, excessive mucus production, and weepy skin conditions. Often used as an astringent tea or gargle for sore throats and mouth ulcers.

Lax/Atrophic Tissue State
Known for its toning and tightening effects, agrimony was traditionally used to strengthen tissues in cases of excessive sweating, urinary incontinence, and digestive atony.

Bitter | Astringent | Slightly Aromatic Taste
Stimulates digestion, enhances liver function, and reduces excessive secretions. Often included in digestive bitters or herbal teas for weak digestion and bloating.

Air & Fire Elemental Association
Traditionally believed to uplift the spirit, promote mental clarity, and provide warmth. Used in European folk medicine for nervous exhaustion, mild anxiety, and as a general tonic for well-being.

Medicinal Action

Definition

Part Used

Astringent
Tightens and tones tissues, reduces excess mucus and secretions, helps with diarrhea, and aids in wound healing.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Expectorant
Helps clear mucus from the respiratory system, making it useful for coughs and colds.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Vulnerary (Wound Healing)
Helps heal cuts, bruises, and wounds by promoting tissue repair. Often used as a wash or poultice.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Diuretic
Increases urine production, helping to flush out toxins and support kidney health.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Anti-Inflammatory
Reduces inflammation, useful for sore throats, skin irritations, and digestive discomfort.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Antimicrobial
Helps fight infections, supports wound healing, and can be used as a gargle for sore throats.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers

Hepatic (Liver Support)
Supports liver detoxification and bile production, aiding digestion and metabolic health.
Leaves | Stems | Flowers


Contraindications | Storage | Preparations | Dosage | Compounds | Uses | Studies | Foraging | Growing

⚠️ Contraindications

  1. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding – Due to its astringent and uterine-stimulating properties, agrimony should be used with caution during pregnancy. Limited research is available on its safety for breastfeeding mothers.
  2. Bleeding Disorders & Blood Thinners – Agrimony has mild blood-thickening properties due to its high tannin content, which may interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin or aspirin.
  3. Constipation & Dry Conditions – As an astringent herb, agrimony can have a drying effect on the body. Those prone to constipation, dehydration, or dry skin should use it cautiously.
  4. Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension) – Agrimony may have a mild hypotensive effect, which could cause dizziness or lightheadedness in individuals with already low blood pressure.
  5. Diabetes Medications – Since agrimony may lower blood sugar levels, those taking diabetes medications should monitor their glucose levels closely to avoid hypoglycemia.
  6. Gastrointestinal Sensitivity – Due to its tannin content, agrimony may cause stomach discomfort, nausea, or irritation in people with sensitive digestion or conditions like gastritis or acid reflux.
  7. Surgery Precautions – Agrimony may impact blood clotting. Discontinue use at least two weeks before surgery to prevent complications.

👉 Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before using agrimony, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take prescription medications.

⚠️ Contraindications (Who Should Avoid It?)

❌ Do NOT use if you have:
⚠️ Use with caution if you have:

Contraindications Chart for Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

ConditionAvoid/Use Caution?Reason
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding⚠️Use CautionMay stimulate the uterus; limited safety data.
Bleeding Disorders & Blood Thinners⚠️Use CautionHigh tannin content may promote blood clotting, interfering with anticoagulants.
Constipation & Dry Conditions⚠️Use CautionAstringent properties may worsen dryness and constipation.
Low Blood Pressure (Hypotension)⚠️Use CautionMay have a mild blood pressure-lowering effect.
Diabetes & Blood Sugar Medications⚠️Use CautionMay lower blood sugar levels, increasing the risk of hypoglycemia.
Gastrointestinal Sensitivity⚠️Use CautionTannins may cause stomach irritation, nausea, or acid reflux.
Pre-Surgery Use❌AvoidMay interfere with blood clotting; discontinue at least 2 weeks before surgery.

👉 Note: Always consult a healthcare provider before using agrimony, especially if you have pre-existing conditions or take prescription medications.

📦 Storage & Shelf Life

  • Dried Herb: Store in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. Shelf life: 1-2 years.
  • Tincture: Store in amber dropper bottles. Shelf life: 3-5 years.
  • Infused Oil: Keep in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and light. Shelf life: 1 year.
Preparation TypeStorage MethodShelf Life
Dried HerbStore in an airtight container in a cool, dark, dry place.1-2 years (best potency within the first year)
Tincture (Alcohol-Based)Keep in a dark glass bottle, stored in a cool, dark place.3-5 years
Infusion (Tea)Refrigerate in a sealed container after brewing.24 hours (consume within the same day for best potency)
DecoctionRefrigerate in a sealed container.48 hours
Salve/OintmentStore in a cool, dark place in an airtight container.6-12 months
Oil InfusionKeep in a dark glass bottle in a cool, dark place.6-12 months (refrigeration extends shelf life)
Poultice (Fresh or Dried Herb Paste)Use immediately; refrigerate for short-term use.Up to 24 hours

Tips for Best Storage:

  • Always label containers with the date of preparation.
  • Keep herbs away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture to maintain potency.
  • If an herbal preparation smells off or has mold, discard it.

🔥 Preparation Methods

Preparation Methods for Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Preparation MethodInternal or ExternalHow to PrepareUses & Benefits
Infusion (Tea)InternalSteep 1-2 tsp dried agrimony leaves in 1 cup hot water for 10-15 minutes. Strain and drink.Supports digestion, soothes sore throats, aids in mild diarrhea, liver tonic.
DecoctionInternalSimmer 1 tbsp dried herb in 2 cups water for 15-20 minutes. Strain and drink.Stronger than tea, used for chronic digestive issues, urinary tract health.
Tincture (Alcohol-Based Extract)InternalMacerate 1 part dried herb in 5 parts alcohol (vodka/brandy) for 4-6 weeks. Strain and store in a dark bottle. Take 20-30 drops in water.Anti-inflammatory, supports liver and kidney function, mild pain relief.
Glycerite (Alcohol-Free Tincture)InternalPrepare like a tincture, but use vegetable glycerin instead of alcohol.Gentle alternative for children or those avoiding alcohol.
Herbal SyrupInternalMake a strong decoction, mix with honey in a 1:1 ratio. Store in fridge.Soothes sore throats, supports respiratory health.
Capsules/PowderInternalTake 500-1000 mg dried agrimony powder in capsule form, 1-2 times per day.Convenient for daily liver and digestive support.
Gargle/MouthwashExternalBrew a strong tea and let cool. Gargle or rinse mouth 2-3 times daily.Sore throat relief, gum infections, mouth ulcers.
PoulticeExternalCrush fresh or rehydrated dried agrimony leaves, mix with warm water, apply to wounds.Speeds wound healing, soothes insect bites, reduces swelling.
CompressExternalSoak a clean cloth in a strong tea or decoction, apply to affected area.Soothes sore joints, muscle pain, inflammation.
Salve/OintmentExternalInfuse agrimony in carrier oil (olive, coconut), mix with beeswax to form a salve.Treats skin irritations, minor wounds, rashes.
Bath SoakExternalAdd 1-2 cups of strong agrimony tea to bathwater.Soothes skin conditions, relaxes muscles.

💧 Dosage Guidelines

General Dosage Guidelines for Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Preparation MethodDosageFrequencyNotes & Considerations
Infusion (Tea)1-2 tsp dried herb per cup of hot waterUp to 3 times dailyBest taken between meals for digestive and liver support.
Decoction1 tbsp dried herb in 2 cups water, simmered1-2 times dailyUsed for stronger medicinal effects, especially for urinary and liver health.
Tincture (Alcohol-Based)20-30 drops (approx. 1-1.5 ml) in water2-3 times dailyCan be diluted in warm water or tea to reduce alcohol content.
Glycerite (Alcohol-Free Tincture)30-40 drops (approx. 1.5-2 ml)2-3 times dailySuitable for children or individuals avoiding alcohol.
Capsules/Powder500-1000 mg per dose1-2 times dailyConvenient option, take with water or food.
Herbal Syrup1-2 tsp per dose2-3 times dailyBest for soothing sore throats and respiratory support.
Gargle/Mouthwash¼ cup strong tea, cooled2-3 times dailySwish or gargle for sore throats and mouth infections. Do not swallow.
PoulticeApply directly to affected areaAs neededRefresh every few hours for best effect.
CompressSoak cloth in strong tea and apply15-20 minutes, 2-3 times dailyUsed for wounds, swelling, or sore muscles.
Salve/OintmentApply a thin layer2-3 times dailyGood for minor wounds, rashes, and skin irritation.
Bath Soak1-2 cups strong tea in bathwaterSoak for 20-30 minutesHelps with skin conditions and muscle relaxation.

ℹ️ Recommended Usage & Dosage

  • Start with small doses and gradually increase to assess tolerance.
  • Always consult a healthcare provider before using for medicinal purposes, especially if taking medications or managing a medical condition.

Active Compounds in Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Compound GroupSpecific CompoundsActions & Benefits
TanninsEllagitannins, CatechinsAstringent properties; tones tissues, reduces inflammation, and aids in wound healing.
FlavonoidsQuercetin, Apigenin, LuteolinAntioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects; supports cardiovascular health and immune function.
PolyphenolsCaffeic acid, Chlorogenic acidProvides antimicrobial and hepatoprotective benefits.
Volatile OilsSesquiterpenes, TerpenoidsContributes to mild antimicrobial, soothing, and anti-inflammatory effects.
Silicic AcidOrganic SilicaSupports connective tissue health, strengthens hair, nails, and skin.
BittersAgrimoniinStimulates digestion, enhances liver function, and promotes bile flow.
CoumarinsUmbelliferone, ScopoletinMild blood-thinning effect, helps circulation, and acts as an anti-inflammatory.
SaponinsTriterpenoid saponinsEnhances absorption of other active compounds, supports immune function.
Vitamins & MineralsVitamin C, Iron, ZincSupports immune health, skin healing, and metabolic functions.

🏺 Traditional Uses

  • Used to strengthen weak, lax tissues (astringent).
  • Helps in drying excess dampness in the body (digestive support, respiratory health).
  • Beneficial for lax or stagnant digestion (bitter stimulant).
  • Warms and stimulates circulation (useful in stagnant conditions).

🌿 Traditional Uses (Non-Energetic Based)

  • Used historically for wound healing and blood clotting.
  • A staple remedy for sore throats, tonsillitis, and voice hoarseness.
  • Commonly used in medieval European medicine for liver and kidney support.

📦 Storage & Shelf Life

  • Dried Herb: Store in an airtight glass jar in a cool, dark place. Shelf life: 1-2 years.
  • Tincture: Store in amber dropper bottles. Shelf life: 3-5 years.
  • Infused Oil: Keep in a dark glass bottle, away from heat and light. Shelf life: 1 year.

🌱 Foraging & Growing Tips for Common Agrimony (Agrimonia eupatoria)

🌿 Foraging Agrimony in the Wild

Best Season to Harvest: Late spring to early autumn, when the plant is in full bloom (June–September).

Where to Find It:

  • Prefers meadows, roadsides, field edges, and open woodlands.
  • Thrives in well-drained soil with moderate sunlight to partial shade.

How to Identify:

  • Leaves: Deeply serrated, pinnate leaves with a soft, slightly fuzzy texture.
  • Flowers: Small, bright yellow flowers arranged in a tall, spiky raceme.
  • Scent: Slightly spicy, earthy aroma when crushed.
  • Growth Habit: Can reach 1-3 feet (30-90 cm) tall, with sturdy stems.

Ethical Foraging Tips:
✅ Harvest only the top 6 inches of flowering stems, leaving lower leaves intact.
✅ Gather from clean areas, avoiding roadsides and polluted zones.
✅ Take only what you need, leaving plants to seed for future growth.
✅ Use scissors or pruning shears instead of pulling plants from the roots.

🌱 Growing Agrimony in Your Garden

Agrimony is a resilient, low-maintenance herb that thrives in various conditions.

Growing Conditions:

  • Soil: Well-drained, sandy or loamy soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH.
  • Sunlight: Prefers full sun to partial shade.
  • Watering: Moderate; does well in dry conditions once established.
  • Hardiness Zones: USDA 4–9, tolerates mild frost.

Propagation:

  • From Seeds:
    • Sow directly in early spring (as soon as the soil is workable).
    • Lightly press seeds into the soil but do not cover them deeply (they need light to germinate).
    • Germination takes 2–4 weeks at temperatures between 60–70°F (15–21°C).
  • From Cuttings:
    • Take 4–6 inch (10–15 cm) stem cuttings in late spring.
    • Place in a moist potting mix until roots develop.

Care & Maintenance:

🌱 Pruning: Regularly trim flower stalks to encourage new growth.
🌱 Companion Plants: Grows well with chamomile, echinacea, and yarrow.
🌱 Pests & Diseases: Rarely affected, but watch for powdery mildew in humid conditions.

Harvesting & Storage:

  • Leaves & Flowers: Harvest during peak bloom (June–September).
  • Drying: Hang bundles upside down in a warm, dry place with good airflow.
  • Storage: Store in airtight glass jars away from light, heat, and moisture.

Advanced Herbology Remedies!

This section requires the Advanced Herbal Course in order to access.

Frequently Asked Questions About Agrimony

Agrimony has been used for centuries as an astringent and anti-inflammatory herb. It has been traditionally used for digestive issues, sore throats, wound healing, and liver support.
Yes, when used in moderation, Agrimony is generally safe. However, due to its astringent properties, excessive use may lead to dehydration or constipation.

Yes, Agrimony is commonly used as a gargle for sore throats due to its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps tighten and soothe irritated tissues.

Agrimony is often infused into oils or salves to treat minor wounds, rashes, and skin irritations. Its antimicrobial and astringent properties help promote healing.
Yes, Agrimony has mild diuretic and antimicrobial properties, making it useful for urinary tract support. It is often combined with other herbs for best results.

Agrimony should be used with caution by individuals with blood clotting disorders, those on anticoagulant medications, or those prone to dehydration due to its astringent nature.