ASH
Fraxinus excelsior
Common name: Ash
Latin name: Fraxinus excelsior
Other names: European Ash, Common Ash, Weeping Ash, White Ash
Family: Oleaceae
Habitat: European ash is native to Europe. It grows best on fertile, wet sites.
Description: Ash is a slender, deciduous tree. It grows up to 35 meters in height. It has a light-gray bark and grayish green, hairy branches. Dark green leaves are pinnately compound. Bisexual white flowers are without petals. Fruit is 4 to 5 cm long, oblong and winged.
Parts used: Leaves, bark, seeds.
Useful components: Vitamin C, sugar, coumarin, minerals (iron, copper, potassium), bioflavonoids, tannins, rutin, resin.
Medicinal use: Ash bark is an astringent, diuretic and febrifuge. It is usually used in treatments of fevers, removal of liver and spleen obstructions. It is also useful in treatment of rheumatism. Leaves are diuretic,
diaphoretic and purgative. They are used in cases of rheumatism, gout, dropsy, obesity, kidney stones and jaundice.
Safety: Pollen of the Ash can cause allergic reactions.Some herbs could interact with certain medication. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consumption of any herb.