Common gromwell
Lithospermum officinale · Boraginaceae
Common gromwell
Grémil
Lithospermum officinale
Boraginaceae
Traditionally used
Gromwell is a gentle diuretic once kept for its hard, stone-like seeds. A hot decoction of the seeds is drunk to encourage the flow of urine and to help the body carry off metabolic waste. It has been turned to for sluggish kidneys and for the joint and skin complaints that follow a burdened metabolism, such as gout, rheumatism, and eczema.
In three languages
Français — Le grémil est un diurétique doux autrefois réputé pour ses graines dures, semblables à de petites pierres. On boit une décoction chaude des graines pour favoriser l'écoulement de l'urine et aider l'organisme à éliminer ses déchets métaboliques. On y a recours pour des reins paresseux et pour les troubles articulaires et cutanés liés à un métabolisme surchargé — goutte, rhumatisme, eczéma.
Safety
Safety notes for this plant are still being written. Until they are, treat it with a cautious hand.
Plants can look similar and be misidentified — always verify with a local herbalist or guide before use.
Sources & lineage
European phytotherapy — silicic acid, mineral salts
Kept alongside