medicinal herbs
Kidney Vetch
Anthyllis vulneraria

• Medicinal herbs
• Natural herbs
• Latin names
• Common names

Herb: Kidney Vetch

Latin name: Anthyllis vulneraria

Family: Leguminosae

Medicinal use of Kidney Vetch:

The roots leaves and flowers are antitussive, astringent, laxative and vulnerary. This plant is an ancient remedy for skin eruptions, slow-healing wounds, minor wounds, cuts and bruises, it is applied externally. Internally, it is used as a treatment for constipation and as a spring tonic. The plant can be used fresh in the growing season, or harvested when in flower and dried for later use.

Description of the plant:

Habitat of the herb:

Dry situations on sea cliffs, stony rocks and shingle, usually on shallow calcareous soils.

Edible parts of Kidney Vetch:

The dried flower heads are a tea substitute.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow spring or autumn in a cold frame. If there is sufficient seed it can be sown outdoors in situ. Pre-soak the seed for about 12 hrs or scarify the seed. It usually germinates in 1 -2 months at 10°C. When large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and plant them out in the summer. Division in spring or autumn.

Cultivation of Kidney Vetch:

Dry situations on sea cliffs, stony rocks and shingle, usually on shallow calcareous soils.

Known hazards of Anthyllis vulneraria:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.