Oxalis Acetosella

Common Names: Wood Sorrel, Common Wood Sorrel

Parts Used: Entire Herb

Plant Description:

Oxalis acetosella, commonly known as Wood Sorrel, is a fast-growing, low perennial herb native to most of Europe and parts of Asia. Recognized by its delicate, clover-like leaves folded through the middle and carried in groups of three on slender reddish stalks, it thrives in moist, shaded woodlands.

The plant produces small white flowers with fine pink or violet streaks during spring (April–May), occasionally showing rare red or violet blossoms. Both the flowers and leaves tend to contract at night or during rainfall. In summer, inconspicuous self-pollinating (cleistogamous) flowers appear.

This herb prefers acidic to neutral soils and flourishes in full to partial shade, making it a characteristic plant of deep woodlands.

Medicinal Uses:

Wood Sorrel has been valued in traditional herbal medicine for centuries due to its cooling, astringent, and detoxifying properties. However, caution is advised as the leaves contain oxalic acid, which should be avoided by individuals with kidney stones or gastritis.

Therapeutic Properties:

• Anodyne: Relieves mild pain.

• Antiscorbutic: Prevents or treats scurvy, thanks to its high vitamin C content.

• Astringent: Tones tissues and reduces inflammation.

• Diuretic: Promotes urine flow, supporting detoxification.

• Emmenagogue: Stimulates menstrual flow.

• Expectorant: Helps clear mucus from the respiratory tract.

• Febrifuge: Reduces fever.

• Stomachic: Aids digestion and soothes the stomach.

Applications:

• A decoction made from the fresh or dried leaves is traditionally used to quench thirst, reduce fevers, and alleviate internal inflammation.

• Crushed leaves are applied externally to treat boils, abscesses, and minor wounds due to their astringent and soothing properties.

• It has also been consumed as a mild spring tonic or for culinary use in small quantities, lending a pleasantly tart, lemony flavor to salads and herbal preparations.

Precautions:
Internal use should be limited due to the oxalic acid content, which can aggravate kidney or gastric conditions if consumed excessively.