Meadowsweet

Identity

Common Name

Meadowsweet

Scientific Name

Filipendula ulmaria

Botanical Family

Rosaceae

Native Region

Europe and western Asia

Cultivation Regions

Europe, western Asia, North America

Plant Parts Used

Flowering tops

Synonyms

Queen of the Meadow, Bridewort, Meadwort

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A tall erect perennial with pinnate compound leaves of toothed green leaflets and dense frothy terminal clusters of small creamy-white five-petalled flowers with prominent stamens; the flowering tops are the part used.

Historical Background

Meadowsweet ('queen of the meadow') was a sacred Celtic and European herb for millennia, its honey-almond flowers a beloved flavoring for mead and teas. The source of salicylates that inspired aspirin, its flowering tops brew a sweet, aromatic tea traditionally sipped for digestive and joint comfort — used with care for its salicylate content.

Earliest recorded uses: European and Celtic traditions for millennia; a sacred 'queen of the meadow' and the natural source of salicylates that inspired aspirin.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Sweet, almond-like, floral, honeyed

Tea Information

Research Summary

Meadowsweet has a tradition for digestion and joint comfort; it contains salicylates that inspired aspirin. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for pain, arthritis, heartburn, or any disease, and may interact with aspirin, NSAIDs, and blood-thinning drugs.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources