Baldwins Bistort Root ( Polygonum Bistoria )

Polygonum bistorta [radix]

Origin: Poland

Bistort root also comes under the latin name: Persicaria bistorta.

The herb is also known as: 'Serpent Root' due to its spiralling, serpertine root formation, and following on it is even called: 'Snakeweed' and 'Twice Writhen'. In fact, 'bis' = twice and 'torta' = twisted.

Under the "Doctrine of Signatures", medieveal Herbalists used Bistort root to treat venomous bites, as well as poisons. European folk tradition, Bistort root was featured in protective sachets to ward off negative energy/ spirits.

Bistort root is a staple and historically used herb in the North of England, especially cuisines, and used for the very purpose of soothing irritability expressing from the gut. In the Lake District, a Springtime dish called 'Easter ledger Pudding' is made from an ensemble of Bistort, nettle, oatmeal and butter. This is ingested to cleanse the body after the long Winter.

Historically, due to Bistort's tannin concentration being high, it was used to tan leather.

Health perks:

Bistort root is a bitter and astringent herb that is best suite towards tightening and toning the mucous membranes of the gastrointestinal tract. Dioscorides had implemented its use in imbalances of the bowel (such as irritable bowel syndrome) and intestinal bleeding (due to its styptic action). It is the classic remedy for diarrhoea and dysentery. If you are looking to do a parasite cleanse, Bistort root can be used, the herb creates an unwelcoming environment for the intestinal worms and other parasitic forms to dwell.

Again, a strong astringent, but this time with regards to the urinary tract, supporting incontinence, urgency, frequency and mild urinary discomfort. The herb also helps with treating urinary tract infections, and even arrest the bleeding that happens in haematuria (blood in urine).

Bistort root is a great uterine tonic, due to its astringency and has therefore been used in menorrhagia (excessive menstrual bleeding) and in prolonged periods. It is deeply restorative in uterine prolapses, because of its toning action. Even in cases of leukorrhea (excessive vaginal discharge), it is also helpful.

Can be used topically as a poultice or wash to assist wound hygiene and healing. In traditional Chinese medicine, Bistort root was commonly used over thousands of years, it has the quality of clearing heat from inflammatory conditions and resolving the toxicity of its imbalanced nature.

Historically, has been used to clear catarrhal conditions from the upper respiratory system, and at the same time also reduces excessive mucus and tone inflamed tissues of the bronchial tunnels and throat.

With regards to oral hygiene, it can be used as a mouth was or gargle for supporting mouth sores and ulcers. Relatively, it can also be used if you have bleeding gums, pharyngitis and tonsilitis.

P.S. ***If pregnant/ nursing, or there are health imbalances that require attention, it is always wise to consult a qualified herbal practitioner... even before trying a new remedy.