Sanicle

About 40 species make up this genus of biennials and perennials, which occurs worldwide, except in Australasia. Sanicula europaea is a woodland species, found mainly on alkaline soil. It is a charming, if unobtrusive plant for shady borders and banks, and thrives beneath trees and shrubs. The first description of sanicle as a medicinal herb was made by St. Hildegaard of Bingen (1098-1179). Though little used by herbalists today, it was especially popular from the 15th to 17th centuries, when it was held on par with Prunella vulgaris (See, Selfheal) and Symphytum officinale (See, Comfrey). Among its constituents are allantoin (as in S. officinale, tannins, saponis, volatile oil, and rosmarinic acid, as in Rosmarinus (See, Rosemary) and Salvia (See, Common Sage). Several N American species, including Sanicula canadensis (Canadian Sanicle), S. gregaria (clustered snakeroot), and S. marilandica (Black Snakeroot) are used for similar purposes. The snakeroot sanicles were important to native tribes as first aid for rattlesnake bites. Sanicula is probably from the Latin sanus, "healthy".

Clump-forming, perennial with shiny, palmately 3- to 5-lobed basal leaves, to 6cm (2½in) long. Tiny green-white to pale pink flower are produced in clusters of small, dense umbels from late spring to mid-summer.

Common Name:	Sanicle
Botanical Name:	Sanicula europaea
Genus:	Sanicula
Family:	Apiaceae
Native Location:	Europe
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained, rich soil in shade or partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe; by division in autumn or spring.
Harvest:	Whole plants are picked while they are flowering so they can be made into infusions and liquid extract.
Height:	60cm (24in)
Width:	15-30cm (6-12in)
Hardiness:	Z3-8
Parts Used:	Whole plant
Properties:	A cleansing, astringent, anti-inflammatory herb that controls bleeding and discharges, and speeds healing.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for diarrhea, dysentery, mucus, dry cough, bronchitis, internal hemorrhage, nosebleeds, and skin problems. Externally for minor injuries, bleeding wounds, burns, hemorrhoids, skin inflammation, chilblains, sore throat, gum infections, and ulcers.
Bibliography:	The Encyclopedia of Herbs by Deni Bown Copyright © 1995,2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg. 358-359