Epilobium, also known as Willow Herb, can be found in both cultivated and wild varieties. It pops up from nowhere in my own garden.
All Epilobium varieties contain the special active constituent, oenothein B, which may have very positive influences over prostate issues, amongst other ailments. It’s commonly used in both Austria and Germany to treat prostate issues.
Epilobium is a good source of vitamins C & A, although it can have a mild laxative effect. Young shoots can be eaten like asparagus and leaves can be made into tea. The flowers are also edible.
Epilobium has been used by many cultures, historically, for medicine, for minor burns, skin rashes, ulcers, skin infections, rectal bleeding, bodily injuries, bladder, kidney and urinary tract issues, all prostate disorders, cancer, sleeping disorder, diarrhea, colitis, irritable bowel syndrome, urogenital diseases, rashes, whooping cough, hiccup, asthma, as a styptic to stop bleeding, and much more.
It is truly awesome to learn what nature provides, right under our noses, for us to keep ourselves well.