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Filaree
Erodium cicutarium Storksbill, Alfilerillo, Alfilaria
Geraniaceae – Geranium family
Description Filaree is a small herbaceous annual, rarely biennial, that typically has laterally oriented leaves during its first growth phase. Its spreading basal leaves radiate out to form compact rosettes; the lobed leaflets form in alternate pairs along the stems. They are hairy and can reach several inches in length. Later Filaree’s growth can be more erect and in ideal conditions reach 1-1½ feet in height and often twice that stretched along the ground. The stems are reddish and branched. The small, 5-petaled, purplish-pink flowers are clustered in small groupings on slender stalks originating from the leaf axils. Another common name, Storksbill, applies to the massed pointed fruits. The fruit clusters separate into 5 individual seeds, all having a tail-like appendage that coils and uncoils in corresponding dry and wet conditions, thereby assisting the seed’s placement in the ground.
Distribution This non-native, European originator is found throughout the west and much of North America. From practically sea level to 9,000 feet, look for Filaree along roadsides, vacant lots, fallow fields, gardens, and any other area where the earth has been disturbed allowing for the easy seeding of the plant.
Chemistry Flavonoids: quercetin, kaempferol, luteolin, and ellagic acid
Medicinal Uses Traditionally Filaree is used as a mild astringent in various external and internal conditions. Internally the tea reduces heavy menstruation and is considered soothing to the urinary tract when tissues are inflamed and it hurts to urinate. In addition, the plant is mildly hemostatic to the area, lessening passive hemorrhaging. Because of the mildness of Filaree, it is best not to over estimate the power of the plant. Filaree has a reputation as a reliable diuretic particularly indicated when there is rheumatic pain and associated fluid retention centered around the joints.
Similar to Geranium, Filaree is a soothing gargle for sore throats. In addition, the tea or fresh plant poultice can be applied topically to diminish redness and sensitivity from sunburn, scrapes, and rashes. Used as a sitz bath or douche the plant is soothing to inflamed vaginal and cervical tissues.
Indications Heavy menstruation Urinary tract inflammation/haematuria Fluid retention with accompanying rheumatism Sore throat (gargle) Burns/rashes (external) Vaginal, cervical inflammation (external)
Collection When the herbage is still fresh and verdant, pull the entire plant up, root and all. The slender taproot should come up easily especially if the plant is in moist, non-compacted soil. Larger roots may have to be split lengthwise as to insure their proper drying. It is acceptable to mix the herb and root together in storage as they complement each other well; the root’s lack of density makes the infusion method fine.
Preparations and Dosage Herb/root infusion: 4-8 ounces 3 times daily Sitz bath/douche: 2-3 times daily
Cautions Filaree growing in the desert occasionally is a host for Synchytrium papillatum, a fungus that causes the plant to produce a burgundy pigment on its leaves. Do not gather and use infected plants.
Other Uses The young green leaves are edible and can be added to salads and the like. |