Polemoniaceae
Jacob’s Ladder
Polemonium caeruleum
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, Asia
Also known as: Greek Valerian, Blue Jacob's Ladder, Charity
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Aerial parts
Therapeutic Uses
Respiratory infections, fever, headaches, nervous conditions. Traditional European alternative to valerian. Limited modern research.
Herbal Actions
Diaphoretic, expectorant, antispasmodic, mild sedative
Active Constituents
Saponins, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp dried herb per 250ml, steep 10 min, 3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 25% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Traditional European medicinal herb. 'Greek Valerian' — historical name. Better researched alternatives available for most indications. Ornamental garden plant. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. No significant interactions.
Side Effects: GI upset. Very well tolerated.