Fresno: medicinal properties – how to take it as an infusion

The ash tree, a tree appreciated for its wood but also for its healing properties

The ash trees are slender and majestic trees, related to the olive treeand are part of the riparian forests -in the case of the small leaf ash (Fraxinus angustifolia)–, O well appear in mountain meadows and margins of deciduous forests –in the case of the biscay ash (Fraxinus excelsior).

The first is common throughout the mediterranean basin and the second one is found from the Cantabrian mountains and the Pyrenees to southern Scandinavia.

They are deciduous trees grayish bark, leaves composed of several leaflets lanceolate, pointed, with toothed margins, panicle flowers and winged fruits.

The excellences of the ash leaves as a healing remedy They were already well known in antiquity and Dioscorides himself mentions the use that was made of them, in poultice, even to combat the viper bite.

Ash tree medicinal properties

Ash contains flavonoids (rutin, quercetin), polyphenols, mannitol, malic acid, abundant tannins and coumarin heterosides. in the bark. are attributed to him diuretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antirheumatic, antipyretic, astringent, venotonic and healing virtues.To reduce inflammation joints and as an analgesic remedy, in rheumatoid arthritis and arthritic processesthe ash leaves have been revealed as a support of the first order, applied topically in compresses or in creams and ointments. The ash tree is also indicated for its notable diuretic and purifying action, when it is required to increase the flow of urine, to facilitate the elimination of excess urea and grit in the kidney.

The ash tree is in dry plant for infusion, the chopped bark for decoction, in tincture alcoholic, liquid extract, syrup, powder, capsules and as an ingredient in ointments and creams.

How to take the ash in infusion

For fluid retention

With diuretic purposes and to promote the reduction of edemaIs associated ash tree with three other treatment plants: the dandelionthe birch leaves and the horse tail.

How to prepare it: Three tablespoons of the mixture are used per liter of water. Boil for one minute, let it rest for another 8 and drink throughout the day.

Infusion to reduce gout

Experts propose an excellent anti-inflammatory formula for relieve pain in crises. This infusion combines ash leaves with lespedeza and friar’s crown leavesin addition to star anise to hide the intensely bitter taste of ash.

How to prepare it: Two level tablespoons of the mixture are required per half liter of water. Boil one or two minutes and let it rest for another ten. In crises you drink throughout the day, and outside of them, a daily glass, week yes, week no.

Advisor: J Mª Teixé, herbalist at “El Manantial de Salud”