Rowan

Also known as 'Mountain Ash', the Rowan tree (sorbus aucuparia) was once widely planted for its supposedly beneficial effect in driving away witches! All parts are astringent and have been used in tanning and producing a black dye. The wood was traditionally used for poles and barrel hoops.

The bark and fruit (either fresh or dried) have been used medicinally - a decoction of bark is taken for diarrhoea and the ripe berries are used to make an astringent gargle for sore throats and inflamed tonsils. To stimulate the appetite, a teaspoonful of rowan jam taken daily is recommended.

Flowers May to July
Fruits in August



PLEASE NOTE: These notes on the history and use of herbs have been compiled for general interest and are not intended as medical advice, for which you should consult a professional herbalist.

BIBLIOGRAPY:
‘Herbs and Healing Plants of Britain and Europe’ Dieter Podlech (1987)
'A Modern Herbal' Mrs M. Grieve FRHS ed. Mrs C. F. Leyel (1973)