Historical use of Alchemilla Vulgaris Herb

Lady's mantle has been identified as a perennial herbaceous plant that belongs to the family of Rose (Rosaceae). The plant has kidney-shaped lower leaves and an erect stem that has been attached on slender stalks. However, the upper leaves of lady's mantle are similar in shape where all part of the plants is covered with soft hairs. Lady's mantle belongs to the species of Alchemilla Vulgaris and possessing similar herbal and medicinal properties. While many of the Alchemilla's family are cultivated, the history of Lady's mantle started in medieval period where medieval chemists collected dew or rain water with the leaf center and used it for medicinal and magical powers. Based on the medieval customs, the plant derived its generic name from the Arabic word "alkimiya" known as "universal cure for the disease." However, in the medieval tradition, alchemilla was used to treat female ailments and wounds, and since that time, the alchemilla has been dedicated to Holy Virgin Mary.

Some of the historical uses of lady's mantles include the treatment of anti-inflammatory, diuretic, a mild astringent, and use as menstrual cycle regulator. The lady's mantle is also used for the treatment of digestive disorders as well as a relaxant for muscular spasms. Moreover, it was used for wound healing, bath preparation, and skin bruises. The lady's mantle was also used as an herbal cosmetic.

Despite the immense benefits of Lady's mantle in treating a different kind of ailments, nevertheless, comparing the traditional use of Lady's mantle with a science-based contemporary use of the herb provides some notable similarities and differences. The evidence-based science research also agrees that alchemilla is effective in treating ailments such as mild diarrhea, stomach problems, muscle spasms, diabetes, and swelling inflammation. (Macey, 2004). Evidence from science also shows that the herb can assist in treating painful or heavy menstrual periods or treating symptoms of menopause. Moreover, evidence-based science research shows that Alchemilla is useful in treating lower-abdominal ailments. (Lans, et al. 2007).

While both traditionalists and scientists agree that Alchemilla is effective in treating different types of ailments, however, science departs from the traditionalists by presenting the side effects of using Alchemilla. For example, a science-based evidence reveals that there is little information with regards to the safety of alchemilla when applying on the skin. However, there is divided opinion about the possible damage of liver by Alchemilla. While some German scientists believe that Alchemilla can damage the liver, some scientists still consider assertion exaggerating. (Peterson, 2017). The outcome of the evidence-based research also concludes that the alchemilla is not safe for pregnant women. (Peterson, 2017). While herbalists argue that alchemilla is an effective remedy for women who are approaching delivery, however, the scientists do not have enough evidence to support this assertion. Despite the difference between the use of Alchemilla by the traditionalists, and scientists, both sides agree that alchemilla is useful for the treatment of abdominal pain. The two sides also agree that alchemilla can be used to fight diarrhea.