Also known as Wood Avens, Colewort, Gold Star, Star of the East, Yellow Strawberry, Ram's Foot and Clove Root. Perennial wildflower and herb, with a clove-scented rhizome. Tiny yellow flowers in summer from May to September, are followed by purple fruits covered in hooked bristles. Grows to about 8 - 24 ins (20 - 60 cm) high. Found in the wild in woodland, wasteland and hedgerows. Food plant of the Riband Wave moth.

The three parts of the leaves represent the Holy Trinity and the five petals of the flowers represent the five wounds of Christ, according to Christian folklore. Its Christian connections are also shown by the fact that the plant is often found in carvings in thirteenth century churches.

Geum comes from the Greek "geno" - I taste, due to the clove flavour of the root. He foliage is also clove-scented. The roots were often used in soups and ale due to their flavour. Since the fruits are hooked, the name avens may come from the Anglo-Saxon "awelan", a diminutive of "awel", meaning hook.

Herb Bennet was made into a cordial to prevent plague by boiling the roots in wine. Gerard also recommended such wine for stomach upsets and bites of venomous beasts. Chewing the root was recommended for bad breath. The whole plant was used to treat heart complaints, digestive problems, vomiting and jaundice in animals. Roots were also used to treat snakebite. In the Middle Ages, dried roots weree used to flavour beer. The smell of the roots was also said to repel evil.

Lay the root amongst clothes to act as a moth repellent. If you carry Herb Bennet or are near a garden where it grows, you will not be harmed by venomous creatures. The plant was known as "herba benedicta" (blessed herb) in medieval times because it was believed to repel evil spirits.

It has been used as a medicine since ancient Roman times. It is antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, stops bleeding, reduces fever. Taken internally for gastroenteritis and bowel disease; externally for piles and inflammations of the mouth, gums and throat. Infusion of leaves for bronchitis.

Plant in rich, moist soil in shade. Self-seeds well.

*This sheet is provided for information only and is in no way a prescription for use. Please seek the advice of a qualified herbalist before using*

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