MEDICINAL USES:
Avens is astringent, diaphoretic and aromatic, and is useful in lowering fevers. As an astringent (astringency is a typical feature of the family Rosaceae), it will sooth a wide range of intestinal inflammations including diarrhoea, dysentery ulcers, colitis, leucorrhoea, heavy menstruation, uterine haemorrhage and irritable bowel syndrome. It can help to suppress nausea and vomiting. Topically, it makes an excellent gargle for sore throats and a gum tightening wash for gingivitis. It can also be used as a douche to help clear up leucorrhoea. This will work especially well if it is taken as a tea at the same time. Although both the upper flowering parts and the roots are medicinal, the roots are usually stronger, especially in the astringent properties. The dosage is a tablespoon of the plant per cup of tea, infused, or a small teaspoon of the root in a decoction (simmer for 10-15 min.).