Self-Heal also know as, Heal-All, Slough Heal, Woundwort and Heart-of-the-Earth. The genus name Prunella comes from the German word for "quinsy", meaning a severe sore throat infection, for which Self-Heal is said to be a cure. The species name vulgaris, means common, indicating the plant’s nature to grow everywhere. Even though the plant is not as commonly used in North America it has been used in Traditional medicine for centuries.
Self-Heal is a creeping, herbaceous perennial that has small lance-like leaves and whirls of tiny purple flowers. It is found throughout Europe, Asia and North America. Self-Heal is a member of the mint family that includes Lemon Balm, Oregano, Basil, Sage and Thyme.
In Western herbalism, Self-Heal has been commonly used for all sorts of wounds, cuts, scrapes and burns by drawing out infection, healing and moisturizing the tissue like Plantain Leaf. Self-Heal is said to stop bleeding like Yarrow and Shepherds Purse.
Self-Heal has been used traditionally for immune-modulating or balancing to the immune system and taken regularly may reduce the incidence of upper respiratory infections. Internally, Self-Heal has been used for ulcers, especially those in the mouth and throat because of the the demulcent qualities of the plant will help to soothe and coat tissue.
The Self-Heal herb has been used traditionally to strengthen and detoxify the kidneys, possibly helping for draining dampness such as oedema or reducing high blood pressure.
Chinese medicine specifically uses Self-Heal for signs of “liver fire rising” and “liver constraint”, which causes headaches and painful eyes that worsen at night and may cause eye redness or eye tearing. In Chinese medicine Self-Heal cools the body and disperses heat, which is also can be helpful in summer heat and heat rashes.
Self-Heal contains vitamins A, B, C, K, flavonoids, rutin and other antioxidants. In Traditional medicine Self-Heal was used as a spring tonic and general tonic.

Properties:
The taste and energetics of Self-Heal are bitter, pungent, dispersive, cooling and moistening. Self-Heal has an affinity to the skin, blood, kidneys, bladder, digestive system, immune system, lymph system and musculoskeletal system. Combine Self-Heal with Red Clover, Chickweed or Cleavers as a spring detox for the blood and lymph system. Combine with Chrysanthemum for tired and sore eyes.

How to use:
1 teaspoon of Self-Heal to one cup of boiling water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain and drink up to three cups a day.

Cautions & contraindications:
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease or illness. Please consult your healthcare provider prior to the use of this product if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medications or have a medical condition. Individual results may vary.