Sanicle

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We found Sanicle (Sanicula europea) in the woods of Colinton Dell this evening. A member of the carrot family, the leaves are edible. In the Middle Ages it was a popular medicinal herb and it’s name comes from the Latin ‘to heal’ or ‘healthy’ I.e. sanitarium, sane, sanitary. It was used externally as a wound herb and for varicose and other ulcers, rashes, chilblains and bruises. As a mouthwash for sore gums or gargle for sore throats. Internally it was used to treat gastroenteritis and diarrhoea, and also respiratory or urinary infections. Medicinally both the leaves (during flowering) and the roots (in Autumn) were used.

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