Jul

Winter Savory for nausea and diarrhea [updated]

Posted by frann under Common garden herbs, Common kitchen herbs

savorywinter Winter Savory for nausea and diarrhea [updated] Winter Savory, Satureja montana, is an evergreen shrub which reaches a height of around 40 cm (16″), and a close relative of Summer savory, which which it shares many properties. It is not related to Spring savory (another name for basil thyme).

Winter savory needs well drained soil and will not grow in the shade, but otherwise is not a fussy plant, tolerating poor soil, drought and even very alkaline soil.

Winter savory is usually seen as a culinary herb, and is used in the kitchen in the same ways as Summer savory, when that herb is not available.

Savory is not suitable for use as a remedy by pregnant women.

A standard infusion is made from 2 teaspoons of fresh herb to 250 ml (1 US cup, 8 fl oz) boiling water, which is allowed to steep for at least 10 minutes (up to 3 hours), before straining. The dose is up to 1 cup a day, taken in small sips.

The standard infusion can be used to treat colic and flatulence (“wind“) or (“gas“), nausea, indigestion and lack of appetite, diarrhea, and as a gargle for a sore throat. An ointment made from winter savory is used to treat painful joints.

In common with other herbs grown for use as herbal remedies, winter savory should be grown organically so that its constituents are not contaminated by chemicals and their value removed. To find out more about growing organic winter savory visit the Gardenzone.

Winter savory essential oil is toxic. Do not use under any circumstances.