Herb's Introduction
Ononis spinosa, commonly known as spiny restharrow, is a perennial plant native to Europe, North Africa, and parts of Asia. It belongs to the Leguminosae (Fabaceae) family, the same family as peas and beans. The name "restharrow" comes from its strong, woody roots which were known to "arrest" or "harrow" the progress of a horse-drawn harrow in fields. The plant has been used for centuries in traditional folk medicine, particularly for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties. It is often found in dry, chalky grasslands, pastures, and along roadsides.
Name in Different Countries
English: Spiny restharrow, restharrow, common restharrow, petty whin German: Dorniger Hauhechel French: Bugrane épineuse Spanish: Gatuña, hierba de las muelas Italian: Ononide spinosa Dutch: Kattendoorn Polish: Wilkoleń ciernisty
Terminology
Ononis spinosa is the scientific name for the species, with Ononis being the genus and spinosa being the species epithet. The name Ononis likely derives from the Greek onos, meaning "donkey," as the plant was considered good food for donkeys. The term spinosa comes from the Latin word for "thorny" or "spiny," referring to the plant's characteristic spines. The term subsp. procurrens (from the provided synonym) denotes a subspecies, a taxonomic rank below species, indicating a distinct but not completely separate population. The other names listed, such as Ononis repens, are synonyms, which are alternative scientific names that have been used for the same plant. The provided article titles relate to molecular ecology and genetic diversity, demonstrating a focus on the plant's genetic relationships and evolution.
Availability
Spiny restharrow is widely available in its native range, often growing wild. It is also cultivated for medicinal and ornamental purposes. The root, which is the part most often used in herbal medicine, can be found in dried form in herbal stores and apothecaries. It's available as a bulk herb for teas and decoctions, and also in standardized extracts, tinctures, and capsules. It is commonly included in herbal blends for kidney and bladder health.
External Look
Spiny restharrow is a low-growing, bushy, herbaceous perennial. It typically grows to a height of 30 to 60 cm. Stems: The stems are woody at the base and have characteristic spines, especially on the lower parts. Leaves: The leaves are small, trifoliate (with three leaflets), and arranged alternately along the stem. They are covered in fine, glandular hairs. Flowers: The flowers are pea-like and range in color from pink to purplish-pink. They grow in a loose spike or raceme and bloom from June to September. Roots: The root system is deep, strong, and woody, making it difficult to remove from the ground. This root is the primary part of the plant used for medicinal preparations.
Healing Properties
The healing properties of spiny restharrow are primarily attributed to its high content of isoflavonoids and other compounds. Diuretic: The most well-known property is its ability to increase urine production and flow. This helps flush out the urinary tract and is beneficial in treating conditions like cystitis, urinary tract infections (UTIs), and kidney stones. Anti-inflammatory: The plant contains compounds that help reduce inflammation, particularly in the urinary and digestive systems. Antiseptic: It possesses mild antiseptic qualities that help fight bacteria in the urinary tract. Spasmolytic: It can help relax the smooth muscles of the urinary tract, which can alleviate spasms and pain associated with kidney stones or bladder issues.
Advantages
One of the main advantages of using spiny restharrow is its long history of traditional use and its established reputation as a gentle yet effective diuretic. Unlike some conventional diuretics, it is not known to cause a significant loss of potassium. It's considered a safe herb for long-term use in managing chronic urinary issues. Its anti-inflammatory action also provides a dual benefit, addressing both the symptoms and underlying inflammation in urinary tract disorders.
Uses
Spiny restharrow is primarily used for conditions affecting the urinary system. Kidney Stones: It is used as a complementary treatment to help prevent the formation of kidney stones and to assist in the passage of existing small stones by increasing urine flow. Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): It helps flush out bacteria from the bladder and urethra, providing relief from symptoms of UTIs. Bladder and Kidney Inflammation: The herb's anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for soothing inflammation in these organs. Gout and Rheumatism: Due to its diuretic action, it can help the body eliminate excess uric acid, which is a key factor in gout and can contribute to other rheumatic conditions.
Using way
The most common way to use spiny restharrow is to prepare a decoction from the dried root. Decoction: To make a decoction, place 1-2 teaspoons of the dried root in a cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil and then simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain the liquid and drink it. It's generally recommended to drink 2-3 cups a day. Tinctures and Extracts: For convenience, liquid extracts or tinctures are a great option. The dosage will vary depending on the product, so it's important to follow the manufacturer's instructions. Capsules: The dried, powdered root is also available in capsule form, offering a convenient way to get a standardized dose without the need for preparation.
Conclusion
Ononis spinosa, or spiny restharrow, is a valuable and time-honored medicinal herb. Its primary application lies in the treatment of urinary system ailments, thanks to its powerful diuretic, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties. While it is generally considered safe and effective, it is always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any new herbal treatment, especially for chronic conditions or if you are taking other medications. Its rich history and scientifically recognized properties make it a staple in traditional herbal medicine for promoting kidney and bladder health.
