The healing properties of the serrated Wintergreen are basically related to the function of the genital and urinary systems. The herb is basically used in the folk medicine of different countries.

Serrated Wintergreen - a small perennial plant that reaches 5-20 cm in height. It has a fast-growing, creeping root system that has many lateral shoots that also produce new seedlings. Every year, the root system can increase even by 1m. The leaves are round or oval, 2-4 cm long and 1-2 cm wide. The edge of the leaf is toothed with a pointed tip, the base of the leaf is wedge-shaped. The stem is unbranched, with small leaves in the upper part and green-white semicircular flowers 5-6 mm in size at the top. Unlike other members of the Ortilia genus, the plant has a single pollen grain, as this plant is pollinated by the wind. The plant has a seed pod (~6mm in size) that opens from the bottom up. The plant blooms in June-July. The seeds begin to ripen in August.

The entire surface part of the plant is harvested for medicinal purposes. The plant is harvested mainly during flowering, but it can be harvested from early spring to late autumn. The collected plant is dried in a shady place or in well-ventilated rooms.

A fresh plant has one peculiarity, it has a strong smell similar to the smell of fish, which is caused by the high concentration of iridoids - this substance is also found in fish scales, it is one of the peculiarities that will strengthen the belief that these plants are found in the forest.

The plant contains arbutin - a phenol-type glycoside, hydroquinone - an aromatic organic compound, diatomic phenols, coumarin, vitamin C, flavonoids, resins, saponins, organic acids (tartaric and citric acids), as well as trace elements (titanium, zinc, copper, manganese). Also, there is a lot of tannin in the fortune cookie.

Medicinal significance

Serrated Wintergreen acts as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antitumor, analgesic and diuretic agent. Promotes resilience of immunity. Preparations that contain this plant can promote the activity of the uterus and ovaries - promote the functionality of the genitals in general. Arbutin has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties; hydroquinone has antioxidant properties; coumarins are powerful anticoagulants. Flavonoids have anti-inflammatory, choleretic, diuretic, sedative, antioxidant properties; saponins have expectorant, diuretic, tonic, sedative properties.

Antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of the plant are provided by hydroquinone, which is released as a result of the hydrolysis of aburtin by enzymes. By irritating the kidney epithelium, arbutin produces a diuretic effect.

In folk medicine, Serrated Wintergreen is used quite widely, it is one of the leading herbs for solving gynecological problems, mainly of an inflammatory nature. Commonly used as a tea, decoction and alcohol infusion, it is also used as a rinse to treat inflammation of the ovaries (andexitis, salpingitis), oorphyritis, fibroids, inflammation and blockage of the fallopian tubes, and to promote menstruation.

All these women's diseases are treated by this miraculous herb - Serrated Wintergreen. This plant is the most popular and the basis for the treatment of female infertility. However, it is also used for the treatment of mastopathy, hormonal diseases, diseases that lead to infertility (ovarian polycystosis, etc.).

As we have already talked about, lucky's apple is used for the treatment of gynecological diseases - inflammatory diseases, uterine bleeding, toxicosis, menstrual cycle disorders, erosion of the cervix. A special effectiveness of the fennel shows in the case of endometriosis. Since ancient times, women have known that primrose (often mixed with other herbs four-leaved radiola, marsh crow's foot, round-leaved wintergreen, etc.) is one of the most effective means to get pregnant and successfully carry a child. Although this herb is considered to be a specific herb for women's ailments, it can be used by  men as well. In case of infertility, this herb is recommended for both partners to drink, for the man, this herb will help increase the activity and number of spermatozoa.

It will also help a man to treat chronic prostatitis, hemorrhoids, prostate adenoma, as well as various urinary system, intestinal tract, liver and kidney problems. However, it is important to consult with a knowledgeable herbalist or herbal tea collector before using the leap of fortune.

Decoctions, infusions and infusions can also be used as a disinfectant in case of kidney and bladder inflammation. It will also be great for the treatment of cystitis, pyelonephritis, prostatitis, hemorrhoids, adult urinary incontinence, ear inflammation.

For men

In folk medicine, this plant is used to treat prostate inflammation and infertility.

Not recommended for use

It's understandable that Serrated Wintergreen , like other herbs, can cause unwanted side effects. Serrated Wintergreen is not recommended in case of allergy, individual intolerance, lactation. It should not be mixed with hormonal preparations, should not be used in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, with poor blood clotting, during menstruation. Usually, the side effects of Serrated Wintergreen are manifested as general body weakness, pain in the epigastric region, dyspepsia and headache.

Dosages must be strictly followed when using this herb, as it can cause toxic effects at higher doses.

A Serrated Wintergreen in the case of stomach and intestinal diseases can aggravate gastritis and cause deterioration of liver function. When using anticoagulants, spontaneous internal bleeding may occur in congenital or acquired blood coagulation disorders, the outcome of which may be unpredictable.

Before using this herb, it is necessary to initially consult with a more knowledgeable person and most importantly not to engage in self-medication - because the plant is really effective. However, if you use it correctly, you can quickly achieve the desired effect.

Recipes

• A drop of Serrated Wintergreen

1 tablespoon of dried herb is poured with one glass of boiling water, boiled on low heat for 5-10 minutes and left to infuse for 3-4 hours. Use one tablespoon 4-5 times a day.

• Infusion of Serrated Wintergreen

Pour 50 grams of finely chopped plant (fresh) with 500 milliliters of quality vodka. Place in a dark and cool place for 3 weeks, shaking periodically. After settling, filter and use 15-30 drops 1 hour before meals.

• Serrated Wintergreen tea

Pour 2 tablespoons of dried herb with 2 glasses of boiling water, cover and leave to infuse for 15 minutes. It is important not to leave the leaves in the tea after settling, pour off part of the water accordingly and use half a glass 4 times a day 30-40 minutes before meals.

This tea can also be used for skin care, especially if there are hard-to-heal scars or they are even suppurating.