Hunting at Roadside V #1

Willowherb is a large herb that flourishes on damp ground, such as wet grasslands, ditches, riversides and woodland clearings. Deep pink flowers appear on the top of hairy stems from July to August and its fluffy seeds are dispersed by the wind.

Properties of the plant is cleansing, soothing astringent and has been used topically for healing minor wounds, burns, rashes and infections as well as inflammation of the ears, mouth and throat.

The young shoots can be steamed and eaten like asparagus, and the leaves can be added to salads. However, raw leaves can be bitter. The flowers can also be added to salads and are less bitter. Has been used as an intestinal astringent and as an antispasmodic in asthma attacks, respiratory infections, and hiccups.