Apiaceae
Eryngium
Eryngium campestre
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, Western Asia
Also known as: Field Eryngo, Sea Holly, Button Snakeroot, Queen of the Alps
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Urinary tract infections, kidney stones, prostatitis, cystitis, coughs (expectorant), rheumatic conditions. Traditional European herb for kidney and urinary complaints.
Herbal Actions
Diuretic, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic, expectorant, diaphoretic
Active Constituents
Saponins (eryngianosides), phenolic acids (rosmarinic, caffeic), flavonoids, essential oil, tannins
Preparation Methods
🍵 Decoction🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1–2 tsp dried root per 250ml, simmer 15 min, 3x daily with high fluid intake |
| Tincture | 3–5 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Combine with goldenrod and couch grass for comprehensive UTI support. High fluid intake essential. Related sea holly (E. maritimum) has similar but milder action. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. Avoid in severe kidney disease. Allergen (carrot family).
Side Effects: Rare allergic reactions. GI upset. Diuretic effects. Generally well tolerated.