Arthritis Herb (Centella asiatica)
Arthritis Herb is normally found growing widespread in damp ground, along roads, near swamps, in gardens. It is found in all states of Australia. Note that there may be two species or subspecies involved. One has quite large leaves & may have less active constituents than its smaller leafed cousin so is less often used. It is a perennial herb creeping along the ground and rooting at leaf nodes. Its leaves are heart shaped to circular or kidney shaped with straight or regularly shallow lobed margins. They may be slightly hairy and vary from 2-3cm in length. Flowers occur in small heads of three to four with small leaf-like bracts under the flower head. Petals are pink or white and overlap.
Can survive in low light situations. Needs moderate fertilising. May need containing as it is a spreading plant.
This plant has been used over the centuries to treat various illnesses but its most prevalent use in modern times is involved in the treatment of Arthritis and related illness. For joint pain use two fresh leaves a day for temporary relief. The leaves should be 40mm in diameter or its equivalent in smaller leaves. It may take up to three months for symptoms to dissipate.