Hog's Fennel

Peucedanum officinale

Physical Characteristics

Peucedanum officinale is a PERENNIAL growing to 1.2 m (4ft). It is in flower from July to September. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in saline soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Europe, including Britain, from Germany south and east to Portugal, central Russia and the Balkans.

Habitats

Meadow; Cultivated Beds;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Gum None known

Medicinal Uses

Anodyne Antispasmodic Aperient Diaphoretic Diuretic Pectoral The plant is anodyne, antispasmodic, aperient, diaphoretic, diuretic and pectoral[4, 9, 46]. An infusion is used in the treatment of coughs, bronchial catarrh etc[9]. The root is mainly used, it is harvested in the spring or autumn and dried for later use[9]. A homeopathic remedy is made from the roots[9]. It is used in the treatment of bronchial catarrh, coughs, intermittent fevers and to stimulate menstrual flow[9].

Known Hazards

Skin contact with the sap of this plant is said to cause photo-sensitivity and/or dermatitis in some people[65, 218]. It is also said to contain the alleged 'psychotroph' myristicine[218].