Pellitory Of The Wall, Spreading pellitory

Parietaria judaica

Physical Characteristics

Parietaria judaica is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.6 m (2ft) by 0.6 m (2ft in). It is not frost tender. It is in flower from June to October. The species is dioecious (individual flowers are either male or female, but only one sex is to be found on any one plant so both male and female plants must be grown if seed is required). and is pollinated by Wind. The plant is not self-fertile. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

Western and southern Europe, including Britain.

Habitats

Hedgerow; East Wall. In. West Wall. In.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Shoots Edible Uses: Young plant - raw or cooked[2, 105]. The young shoots can be added to mixed salads[7].

Medicinal Uses

Cholagogue Demulcent Diuretic Laxative Refrigerant Urinary Vulnerary Pellitory of the wall has been valued for over 2,000 years for its diuretic action, as a soother of chronic coughs and as a balm for wounds and burns[254]. In European herbal medicine it is regarded as having a restorative action on the kidneys, supporting and strengthening their function[254]. The whole herb, gathered when in flower, is cholagogue, slightly demulcent, diuretic, laxative, refrigerant and vulnerary[4, 7, 61, 165, 238]. It is an efficacious remedy for kidney and bladder stones and other complaints of the urinary system such as cystitis and nephritis[4, 238, 254]. It should not be prescribed to people with hay fever or other allergic conditions[238]. The leaves can be usefully employed externally as a poultice on wounds etc[4]. They have a soothing effect on simple burns and scalds[7]. The plant is harvested when flowering and can be used fresh or dried[238].

Known Hazards

None known