Description
Prostrate annual or perennial with bright green oval leaves and clusters of green flowers.
Habitat & Cultivation
Rupturewort is found throughout Europe and western Asia. It thrives in barren areas, in lime and sandy soils. It is gathered when in flower.
Parts Used
Aerial parts.
Constituents
Rupturewort contains coumarins (including 3% herniarin and scopoletin), flavonoids, phenolic acids, and saponins.
History & Folklore
Rupturewort was first documented in European herbals of the 16th century. Its genus name, Herniaria, refers to its reputed ability to heal hernias.
Medicinal Actions & Uses
Rupturewort is of value chiefly as a diuretic herb. The fresh plant treats urinary problems such as cystitis, irritable bladder, and kidney stones. It is also astringent, and has been applied as a poultice to speed the healing of ulcers. The whole plant appears to have an antispasmodic effect on the bladder.