Horsechestnut Aesculus hippocastanum

Personality: The Hosechestnut, or conker tree needs little introduction. Although we think of it as a very British tree because of its role in the game, conkers, it is in fact, originally from Asia. The large, deep green leaves can be used herbally, but it is normally the ‘conkers’ themselves which are made into herbal medicine.

Sources: There are plenty of conker trees around but if you choose one which is on a route to a school or recreation ground you may not find many conkers left to harvest. Most mature trees fruit fairly prolifically. To obtain the seeds ripe and undamaged, open the spiny pods, which have fallen to the ground, whilst they are still green. Tincture of Horsechestnut is also available.

Uses: The primary use of Horsechestnut is in toning the veins. This applies to varicose veins and haemorrhoids as well as phlebitis and frostbite. Recently it has been used to treat chronic back pain, with good success, but why it works is not fully understood.

Actions: astringent, anti-inflammatory.

Dosage & Preparations: May be used internally and externally as a tincture or infusion. Tincture 1-2mls, or decoction 1 teaspoon per cup, three times per day. If you want to get rid of the alcohol before applying the tincture externally, the normal advice is to add a little boiling water to the tincture to drive the alcohol off. I prefer to place some tincture in a small cup and surround this with freshly boiled water, in a saucepan. This method is more effective and does not dilute the tincture. You can also place the tincture in a microwave to achieve a similar result.

Safety: Can be toxic in large doses, therefore do not exceed recommended dose for internal use.

Postlethwaite's HerbOrganic.com - Home