medicinal herbs
American Vetch
Vicia americana
Herb: American Vetch
Latin name: Vicia americana
Family: Leguminosae
Medicinal use of American Vetch:
The leaves have been rubbed in the hands and applied to spider bites. An infusion of the crushed leaves have been used as a bath for treating soreness. An infusion of the plant has been used as an eyewash. An infusion of the leaves has been used by women as a love medicine.Description of the plant:
Plant:
PerennialHeight:
100 cm(3 1/4 foot)
Flowering:
JulyHabitat of the herb:
Damp or gravelly slopes, thickets and meadows.Edible parts of American Vetch:
Young shoots - cooked. The tender seeds are eaten by the N. American Indians. Both the mature seeds and the immature seedpods can be used. The pod is about 3cm long and contains 4 - 7 seeds.Other uses of the herb:
The stout roots have been used for tying.Propagation of American Vetch:
Pre-soak the seed for 24 hours in warm water and then sow in situ in spring or autumn.Cultivation of the herb:
Damp or gravelly slopes, thickets and meadows.Known hazards of Vicia americana:
None knownPlant information taken from the Plants For A Future.