Larch, European Larch, Common Larch

Larix decidua

Physical Characteristics

Larix decidua is a deciduous Tree growing to 45 m (147ft) by 15 m (49ft) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4 and is not frost tender. It is in flower from April to May, and the seeds ripen from October to November. The species is monoecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but both sexes can be found on the same plant) and is pollinated by Wind. Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils, prefers well-drained soil and can grow in nutritionally poor soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils and can grow in very acid soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers moist soil. The plant can tolerate maritime exposure. It cannot tolerate atmospheric pollution.

Distribution

C. Europe - Alps to N. Russia and Siberia. Naturalized in Britain.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Canopy;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Inner bark Manna Edible Uses: Inner bark - it can be eaten raw or can be dried, ground into a powder and used with cereal flours in making bread etc[2, 177]. A sweet-tasting manna is obtained from the trunk, it can be eaten raw but is mainly used medicinally[2, 7, 46, 61, 105]. Another report says that 'Briancon manna' is exuded from the leaves in the summer[4]. It is white, sweet and almost odourless[4].

Medicinal Uses

Anthelmintic Antidote Antirheumatic Antiseptic Astringent Bach Balsamic Diuretic Eczema Expectorant Haemostatic Laxative Rubefacient Stimulant Vermifuge Vulnerary The bark, stripped of its outer layer, is astringent, balsamic, diuretic, expectorant, stimulant and vulnerary[4, 21]. Its main application is as an expectorant in chronic bronchitis and has also been given internally in the treatment of haemorrhage and cystitis[4, 238]. A cold extract of the bark is used as a laxative[9]. As an external application, it is useful in the treatment of chronic eczema and psoriasis[4]. The powdered bark can be used on purulent and difficult wounds to promote their healing[21]. The bark is harvested in the spring and should be dried rapidly[4]. The turpentine obtained from the resin is antiseptic, balsamic, diuretic, haemostatic, rubefacient and vermifuge[4, 238]. It is a valuable remedy in the treatment of kidney, bladder and rheumatic affections, and also in diseases of the mucous membranes and the treatment of respiratory complaints[4]. Other reports say that it is contraindicated for anyone with a kidney complaint[7, 238]. Externally, the turpentine is used in the form of liniment plasters and inhalers[4]. It has also been suggested for combating poisoning by cyanide or opium[4]. The plant is used in Bach flower remedies - the keywords for prescribing it are 'Lack of confidence', 'Anticipation of failure' and 'Despondency'[209]. The German Commission E Monographs, a therapeutic guide to herbal medicine, approve Larix decidua for fevers & colds, coughs/bronchitis, tendency to infection, blood pressure problems, inflammation of mouth and pharynx, common cold (see [302] for critics of commission E).

Known Hazards

care with lactose intolerance as contains galactose. Inhalation may cause acute inflammation airways. Possible allergies (e.g. hives, rashes, contact dermatitis), Oral intake of bark or oil application over large skin areas may cause kidney damage [301].