Laxative, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, refreshing and tonic. These are some of the properties present in the plant known as sorrel. With the scientific name Rumex acetosella,  this herb is an ally of human health and may also be known by other names such as clover, clover, sour weed, field sorrel and acedrilla.

Benefits of this plant

The tea made with sorrel is efficient in the treatment of problems that affect the liver, as it protects the cells of this organ. It is indicated for the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and for strengthening the body’s defenses.

The substance resveratrol, present in greater amounts in the root of this plant, helps to prevent diseases related to aging and metabolism. However, as the use of this part is not recommended for tea, the most suitable is the drink made from the leaves.

In addition to these beneficial effects, the plant also works as a diuretic and can be used in the healing process of wounds and burns.

Sorrel tea recipe

Ingredients

  • Two teaspoons of sorrel leaves;
  • 250 ml of filtered water.

Preparation mode

If you have this plant at home, just pick some leaves, wash them and chop them into very small pieces with your hands. If you don’t have it, you can look for this ingredient in physical health food stores or online, as well as in street markets. In any situation, whether the leaf is fresh or dry, the results will be positive.

Once you get the main ingredient, put the water on the fire and wait for it to come to a boil. After this process, turn off the heat, add the leaves and cover the container.

Wait for approximately 10 minutes, then strain. Reserve the drink to drink throughout the day. And remember, no sweetening is necessary.

ways of use

If your goal is to treat an internal illness, use the preparation as done before and drink two cups of tea a day. However, if the problem is external, such as wounds, you will need a cloth or gauze to moisten the tea and apply in the region where you want healing.

Precautions and contraindications

Even though it is rich in resveratrol, sorrel root should not be used in recipes, as this part of the plant is highly toxic. Therefore, always try to follow the original recipe, respecting the dosage of the ingredients and the way of consumption.

This last point also deserves attention from consumers, as excessive tea can cause adverse reactions, such as nausea and vomiting. In addition to helping in the formation of kidney stones, since the herb has high levels of oxalic acid.

The use of tea is prohibited for pregnant women, nursing women and children. Patients suffering from rheumatism, arthritis, gout and kidney stones should also not use sorrel, as it can further aggravate these problems.