Did you know that the plant Meadowsweet played an important role in developing the drug called aspirin? It’s true! In 1839 salicylic acid was isolated from the flower buds of the plant. Later, salicylic acid was synthesized and became an important drug for pain relief and blood thinning during the 19th century. Unfortunately, unlike the salicylic acid contained in the Meadowsweet plant, the salicylic acid in the drug caused so much gastric discomfort and nausea in users that they felt that having the pain was preferable to the cure. To overcome this problem, the drug developers created a drug called acetylsalicylic acid. It was named aspirin.

The herb Meadowsweet is different from aspirin. It does not have the gastric and nausea-causing side effects that aspirin does. Today, people traditionally use Meadowsweet for conditions of the upper gastrointestinal tract, diarrhea, and other conditions.

Meadowsweet for Conditions of the Upper Gastrointestinal Tract

Meadowsweet has been used traditionally in disorders of the upper digestive tract that are associated with hyperactivity and flatulence. Meadowsweet acts to soothe and protect the digestive tract mucous membranes, which eases nausea and reduces excess acidity. It has been used in cases of gastric disorders needing repair or protection of the gastric mucosa, like in gastritis or gastric ulcerations. This also makes it helpful for heartburn (gastric reflux).

Diarrhea

Meadow sweet has a gentle astringent property that is valuable for the treatment of diarrhea, and it is almost a specific for children’s diarrhea. Being “specific” means it is an herb that is particularly effective for a specific condition or symptom. It has tendencies that are cooling and drying due to the tannins which are astringent compounds known to help reduce intestinal inflammation and secretion, so ti may reduce the frequency and severity of diarrhea. This is obviously good for a child with who is suffering with this condition. 

Meadowsweet for Other Conditions

Meadowsweet has a presence of aspirin-like chemicals, which explains why it has actions that help reduce fever and remove the discomfort and pain of rheumatism in joints and muscles. It has traditionally been worked with in much the same was as aspirin- to ease the discomfort of headache, colds and flu, toothache. Some herbalists have considered it good for fevers. However it is not good for children under 15 (see safety note below) who have fevers. It is listed as supportive treatment for chills, colds, etc. in the Commission E monograph. 

Kidney disorders like cystitis, urinary stones, and red sandy deposits in the urine with an oily film on the surface may benefit from Meadowsweet. This is because it helps to increase urine output and flush out toxins. It has anti-inflammatory properties.

Meadowsweet leaves have been used traditionally to ease cramps, promote sweating, and to reduce excess water in edema. 

Safety Note: Caution should be observed in cases of people who take warfarin or in cases of salicylate sensitivity. Do not use if pregnant or lactating. Because of the tannins in this herb, long-term use of high doses should be avoided. Use cautiously if you have glucose-6-phosphade dehydrogenase deficiency or if you have bleeding disorders. Be aware of the possibility of Reye’s syndrome in children under the age of 15 years old. No significant adverse effects can be expected from ingesting Meadowsweet by most other people. 

Action Step

Keep learning more about the benefits of Meadowsweet and reach out to an herbalist or healthcare provider to see if it would be a good fit for you.

May God bless you on your wellness journey!

Joni

P.S. What experience do you have with working with Meadowsweet?