Lady’s Mantle

Lady’s Mantle was named so because the herb’s leaves are said to resemble a lady’s (particularly the Virgin Mary’s) waterproof cloak bringing to mind the doctrine of signatures which states that a herb’s appearance signals which ailments it can be affective for. High in tannins, giving it a moderate degree of astringency, lady’s mantle tones and tightens the tissues as well as the spirit where it can protect “like a cloak wrapping us up against threatening influences.”  

Lady’s Mantle has an affinity for the female reproductive system although it can be used for men too. It is most commonly used for all matters relating to lax tissues in the uterus and vaginal mucous membranes, especially in regard to excessive discharges. Herbalists work with this anti-inflammatory aspect to relieve period pains, regulate periods, to address fibroids and endometriosis and reduce heavy periods (particularly combined with shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa-pastoris)), especially when there is a history of sexual abuse or trauma. It also has a role to play in easing the changes of menopause.  

Lady’s Mantle is also used to promote fertility although it does not work quickly (use for at least three months). It is often combined with other herbs like raspberry leaves (Rubus idaeus), red clover (Trifolium pratense) and nettle leaf (Urtica dioica). American clinical herbalist and bestselling author, Rosalee de la Foret, recommends the ideal way to trigger the toning and healing action is as a sitz bath for tears during labour, haemorrhoids or general postpartum healing, in which case she often combines it with ribwort (Plantago lanceolata), yarrow (Achillea millefolium) and calendula (Calendula officinalis). Historically lady’s mantle was used to heal wounds and staunch bleeding. Nowadays, it is an underutilised plant that deserves more of the spotlight. Its astringency provides a role in the treatment of diarrhoea, as a mouthwash for sores and ulcers and as a gargle for laryngitis.

References

Jones L. A Working Herbal Dispensary. Glasgow:Aeon. 2023. p.207-9

de la Forêt R. c2010-2022 www.HerbalRemediesAdvice.org. (accessed 20 Aug 2024). Available from https://www.herbalremediesadvice.org/alchemilla-vulgaris.html

McIntyre A. The Complete Women’s Herbal. London: Gaia Books Limited, 1994. p. 110