Lady's Mantle
Alchemilla vulgaris
T Traditional useA tannin-rich astringent herb. Traditionally taken as a tea for mild diarrhoea; its popular use for women's health rests on tradition only.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris) is a rose-family herb with leaves shaped like a cloak. Its tannins are astringent. Germany's Commission E accepted its use for mild, non-specific diarrhoea. Uses for menstrual complaints and preparing for pregnancy are traditional and not clinically shown.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for mild, non-specific diarrhoea because of its astringent effect. [1]
T Traditional use
Traditional use: Based on at least 30 years of documented traditional use rather than clinical trials.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used for menstrual complaints; there is no clinical evidence. [1]
How is it used?
Tea
Infuse 2 g (1 dessertspoon) of dried herb in 150 ml of boiling water for 10 minutes.
Amount: 2–3 times daily
Duration limit: 3–4 days (for diarrhoea)
[1]Safety & interactions
Minimum age: 12 years
- See a doctor if diarrhoea lasts over 3–4 days or comes with fever or bloody stools.
- Tannins in high doses can irritate the stomach.
- Using it in pregnancy "to ease labour" is not recommended; safety has not been shown.
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Iron supplements and medicines taken at the same time | Tannins may reduce absorption; leave 2 hours apart. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Stomach upset at high doses
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
Alchemists prized the dew drops that collect on its leaves as "heavenly water"; that is where the name Alchemilla comes from. [1]
Frequently asked questions
Does lady's mantle help with getting pregnant?
This use is traditional only; there is no clinical evidence that it improves fertility.
What is lady's mantle tea used for?
It is traditionally drunk for mild diarrhoea because of its astringent effect.
How long can it be used?
A few days for diarrhoea; see a doctor if symptoms persist.
Sources
- ESCOP Monographs: The Scientific Foundation for Herbal Medicinal ProductsESCOP · 2019
- Trease and Evans Pharmacognosy (16th Edition)Elsevier Health Sciences · 2009
Cite This Page
Lady's Mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/ladys-mantle/
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