Common Name: |
Pellitory-of-the-Wall |
Botanical Name: |
Parietaria judaica syn. P. diffusa |
Genus: |
Parietaria |
Family: |
Urticaceae |
Native Location: |
From W and C Europe to N Africa. |
Cultivation: |
Well-drained to dry, alkaline soil in sun or partial shade. Subject to statuatory control as a weed in parts of Australia. |
Propagation: |
By seed sown in autumn or spring. |
Harvest: |
Plants are cut when flowering and used mainly fresh or infusions, decoctions, compresses, liquid extracts, and tinctures. Fresh extracts are more effective. Decoctions may be frozen for later use. |
Height: |
40cm (16in) |
Width: |
40cm (16in) |
Hardiness: |
Z5-8 |
Parts Used: |
Whole Plant |
Properties: |
An acrid, soothing, cooling herb that has diuretic, antilithic, and anti-inflammatory effects. |
Medicinal Uses: |
Internally for cystitis, pyelitis, urinary stones, and edema associated with kidney complaints. Combines well with Agathosma crenulata (See, Oval-Leaf Buchu), Aphanes arvensis (See, Parsley Piert), Apium graveolens (See, Wild Celery), Arctostaphylos uva-ursi (See, Bearberry), Juniperus communis (See, Common Juniper), and Petroselinium crispum (See, Parsley) to control infections; and with Elymus repens (See, Quack Grass) and Zea mays (See, Corn) to relieve pain and inflammation. Not given to patients with hay fever or other allergic conditions. |
Bibliography: |
Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright © 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited Pg 302 |