Self-Heal, heal-all (Prunella vulgaris)
This gorgeous low-growing mint has definitely earned its name! Self-heal has been the subject of a lot of scientific and medical research – most of it in vitro or in vivo. As a result, it has been found to contain several compounds that are anti-viral, antimicrobial, antimutagenic, and tumor-inhibiting. One compound, betulinic acid (the same active compound found in the chaga mushroom) is known to induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in tumors while causing no harm to normal cells. Several extracts or isolated compounds have exhibited different modes of inhibiting HIV and Herpes simplex viruses. Decoctions made from the plant have shown “strong inhibition and control” of E.coli, salmonella, cholera, staphylococcus and tuberculosis bacteria. Extracts have also demonstrated anti-allergenic properties by inhibiting anaphylaxis and reducing serum histamine levels.
Self-heal spreads by seeds and rhizomes, forming patches. The first leaves are in a ground-hugging basal rosette, which allows it to withstand mowing or overgrazing.
Grows with black-eyed susan, purple prairie clover, upland white goldenrod, stiff goldenrod, prairie dropseed, tufted hairgrass, big bluestem, horsetail, shrubby cinquefoil and willows.
Flower Colour: ligh – dark pink
Life Cycle: perennial
Sun Exposure: part shade to sun
Bloom Period: June – July
Height: 5 – 12 inches
Soil: moist to medium