Selfheal - super plant.

If, like me you have a slightly wild lawn or grassy borders, you may see small, low-growing purple flowers beginning to appear from June / July onwards...it is likely that you have Selfheal growing, and how lucky you are!

It's scientific name is Prunella vuglaris and is a member of the mint family - bees absolutely LOVE this plant and you will be helping them no end if you allow a patch to grow, it is often found alongside clover and makes a very attractive wild area in the garden.

Selfheal (also known as 'all-heal' and 'carpenter's herb' among other names) is an ancient plant, the leaves and flowers are edible and have a slightly bitter taste - great used in a salad or added to cooked dishes, dried leaves can be used to make a tea. Selfheal historically was used as a treatment for wounds, the green parts are antibacterial and astringent and are said to help lower blood pressure and ease sore throats. The flowers are also edible and have been used as a gallbladder and liver-restorative treatment.

Always seek advise from a practicing herbalist before treatment due to possible allergic reactions and medical contraindications!