CREEPING CINQUEFOIL
Potentilla reptans
Common name: Creeping Cinquefoil
Latin name: Potentilla reptans
Other names: European Cinquefoil, Creeping Tormentil, Five Fingers, Five-leaf Grass,
Family: Rosaceae
Habitat: Creeping Cinquefoil is native to Great Britain. It can easily be found in open woodland, grassland and waste grounds.
Description: Creeping Cinquefoil is a perennial plant with creeping habit. It has palmate leaves, with five leaflets and toothed margins. Flowers are borne on long stems (1 to 2 cm long). They are bright-yellow, with five heart shaped petals. Flowering period begins in June and lasts up until October.
Parts used: Aerial parts
Useful components: Tannic acid, quinovic and ellagic acid, resins , starch, glycine, bioflavonoids, tormentol, choline, minerals (calcium, iron, sulfate, magnesium, potassium, silica, sodium), vitamin C.
Medicinal use: Creeping Cinquefoilย is aย very powerful herb with astringent, antiseptic and tonic properties. It is used for various disorders including mouth ailments, fevers, skin problems, and digestive complaints. Used internally, Creeping Cinquefoil can be very helpful in cases of diarrhea, gastritis and uterine hemorrhaging. Used externally, it can be added to baths and used for different skin problems, such as sores and rashes. It is also used in skin lotions and anti-wrinkle creams. Remedies made from Cinquefoil can also be very beneficial in cases of fractures and chronic osteoporosis.
Safety: Some herbs can interact with certain medication. Always consult your doctor/herbalist before consumption of any herb.