Historically, people have used plants to treat many health conditions. While there may not have been much scientific evidence to explain why back then, today, we can find some answers. And small flowered willow herb benefits’ are clear.
And while it became well known only around 50 years ago, it has already been demonstrating some incredible health benefits! Let’s get into it.
What Is Small Flowered Willow Herb
Epilobium parviflorum is a species of an annual wildflower called willowherb, known by the common name small-flowered willow herb. The genus name comes from the Greek words “epi” and “lobos”, which mean “upon” and “lobe.”
This points to the position of the petals above the ovary. “Parviflorum”, on the other hand, means “small flowers” in Latin.
- It is a perennial plant of the family Onagraceae that has branching stems, topped with white or light purple flowers.
- Commonly grows in Europe, America, and the United Kingdom. You will find it in fields and meadows.
- Its extracts are sold as supplements in the form of tinctures and essences.
Interesting Fact: Willowherb is the first flower to start growing in areas that were recently cleared by wildfire.
Small Flowered Willow Herb Benefits
Antioxidant & Anti-Inflammatory
The power of antioxidants should not be underestimated. They protect our cells from damage and reduce the risk of many diseases. Luckily, we don’t always need to reach for drugs that often cause side effects. Sometimes, plant sources such as willowherb can be of great help.
According to a study, willowherb has remarkable antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
In fact, 4 mg extract of E. parviflorum showed the ability to scavenge free radicals that can be compared to that of 80mg of vitamin C, which is pretty impressive!
Studies also show it has protective effects against oxidative damage, comparable to the catalase enzyme.
Active compounds found in E. Parviflorum:
- Flavonoids (specifically Myricetin), which are compounds that have been proven to be powerful antioxidants with effects found to even exceed that of vitamin E.
- Phenolic acids, which are common compounds that can be extracted from many edible herbs and other plant sources.
- Catechins, which are natural phenols that help protect cells from damage.
Thanks to the functions of those active compounds, small-flowered willowherb can provide unbelievable benefits for some illnesses, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia and heart disease.
Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia
One of the most common disorders that occur in men after middle age is prostate enlargement, which is associated with hormonal changes brought on by getting older.
It can cause some pretty uncomfortable symptoms, such as the frequent need to urinate, difficulty urinating, or loss of bladder control. It can be treated with medications and surgery, but this is where willowherb may come in handy.
Research shows that since the end of the 1970s, aerial parts of the willowherb have become popular in folk medicine treatments of prostatic hyperplasia.
The high contents of beta-sitosterol, one of the phytosterols found in small-flowered willowherb, are found to have incredible benefits for those suffering from prostate enlargement. It helps improve
urinary tract symptoms and flow.
Pro Tip: Add 1.5-2 grams of the herbal tincture in boiling water and consume one to two times a day!
Antibacterial
It’s no secret that essential oils can provide numerous health benefits and small-flowered willowherb is no exception. Its dry leaves and stems can be used to distill essential oil from them.
Studies have stated that extracts of willowherb have shown the ability to slow down bacterial growth in fungal and bacterial infections.
This is probably due to the fact that the essential oil contains primarily fatty acids like palmitic acid, linoleic acid, and alpha-linolenic acid, which are all known for their antibacterial and antioxidant activities.
In addition to the essential fatty acids, other active components can be used for many purposes due to the analgesic, antimicrobial, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, lipid-lowering, and wound healing effects.
Heart Disease
Although heart disease can result in death, most people are able to prevent it and live a longer life with the help of healthy habits.
It goes without saying that having a nutritionally balanced diet, eliminating harmful substances like alcohol and cigarettes, and working out play vital roles in the prevention of heart disease.
However, you can also consider adding natural supplements, such as willowherb, to your daily routine.
Research shows that phytosterols found in the plant can reduce cholesterol which, in turn, reduces the risk of heart disease.
Conclusion
Small flowered willow herb clearly benefits our health in great ways. Even though it is important to know when to turn to medication, there are so many natural ways that can aid us in preventing and treating health conditions. So, are you going to try this one?
If you’re looking for another unique natural flower supplement, check out our article about Swedish flower pollen.