Columbine
Aquilegia vulgaris
In cosmetics
Properties
anti-inflammatory
Skin
For thousands of years, columbine has been used by the indigenous populations of North America and Europe to treat a variety of skin conditions. Crushed seeds or roots combined with water create a paste or salve that can be placed directly on rashes and irritation to reduce the irritation and redness of affected areas.
It is also effective for mild acne, psoriasis, and poison ivy, as well as other plant-derived rashes.
As a medicine
Properties
astringent and diuretic, sedative, antianxiety; astringent; depurative; diaphoretic; diuretic; homeopathy; parasiticide; parasiticide.
- Stomach and intestinal problems
- Gallbladder disorders
- Vitamin C-deficiency (scurvy)
- Jaundice
- As a calming agent (tranquilizer)
Toxicity
The plant is a member of the poisonous Ranunculus family and all parts of the plant, including the seeds, are poisonous if ingested. Because of its toxic properties, this plant should not be taken internally without expert advice, though the root is sometimes used externally in poultices to treat ulcers and the commoner skin diseases.
Culinary uses
Flowers – raw. Rich in nectar, they are sweet and delightful, they make a very attractive addition to mixed salads and can also be used as a thirst-quenching munch in the garden. The flowers are also used as a tea substitute. Columbine was formerly employed in herbal medicine mainly for its antiscorbutic effect, but it has fallen out of favour and is little used nowadays.
Origin of name
Genus name comes from the Latin word for eagle (aquila) in reference to the talon like spurs on most flowers. Specific epithet comes from the Latin word meaning common. Columbine comes from the Latin word columba meaning dove-like.
Interesting information
Against lice
The dried crushed seeds made into a dusting powder will kill lice very effectively.
Attracts hummingbirds
In culture
The Colorado Blue Columbine (A. caerulea) is the official state flower of Colorado
Origin of name
The genus name Aquilegia is derived from the Latin word for eagle (aquila), because the shape of the flower petals, which are said to resemble an eagle’s claw.
The common English name “columbine” comes from the Latin for “dove”, due to the resemblance of the inverted flower to five doves clustered together
Other Names
Aguileña Común, Aiglantine, Ancolie, Ancolie Commune, Aquilegia vulgaris, Cinq Doigts, Colombine, Common columbine, Cornette, Culverwort, European columbine, Granny’s nightcap, Granny’s bonnet, Gants de Notre Dame.
Mythologies and stories
In traditional herbalism columbine was considered sacred to Venus; carrying a posy of it was said to arouse the affections of a loved one. Nicholas Culpeper recommended it to ease the pains of childbirth. In modern herbal medicine it is used as an astringent and diuretic.
Native Range
Indigenous to Europe
Family/genus
Ranunculaceae species of columbine.
Description
It is a flowering herbaceous perennial plant growing to 1.2 m tall, with branched, thinly hairy stems. The leaves are biternate; each leaf has three groups of three leaflets. The flowers, in various shades of purple, blue, pink and white, are pendent or horizontal with hooked spurs, and appear in early summer.
