Primula officinalis Jacq.

In the bright clearings of deciduous forests, on the edges and among sparse bushes, already in May the light yellow panicles of primroses delight our eyes. A rosette of ovate-elongated wrinkled leaves and several erect peduncles emerge from the powerful root system, which grow one after another as they bloom.

Rams are perennials, but they also reproduce well by seeds that ripen at the end of August, so you should leave the most powerful plants and not collect every last one - leaving large specimens will ensure reproduction for future years.

Biological description of Primrose officinalis

Primrose has many other popular names: rams, lambs, God's hands, white initial letter, gasnik, heavenly keys, ears, flowers of St. Peter. The latter is associated with the legend that the plant grew on the spot where St. Peter dropped the keys to heaven. Moreover, the primrose inflorescence looks like a bunch of keys; according to another legend, these are the keys with which spring opens the doors to summer.

Primrose has a short horizontal rhizome; numerous thin succulent roots extend from it.

Primrose leaves are oblong-obovate, wrinkled, serrated or unclearly crenate at the edges, taper into a winged petiole and form a basal rosette. A leafless peduncle 5-30 cm high emerges from the center of the rosette.

The flowers are regular, yellow, 7-15 mm in diameter, five-membered, dimorphic, with a 10-toothed calyx, inclined to one side, bisexual, collected in a slightly drooping umbrella of 10-30 pieces. The corolla is fused-petalled at the base; petals are dull.

In the conditions of the central zone of the European part of Russia, the primrose blooms in April - July.

The fruit is a capsule.

Where does primrose grow (distribution and ecology)

The plant is distributed in forest and forest-steppe zones almost throughout Europe, including the European part of Russia; also found in the Caucasus, Iran and Turkey. Prefers sparse light forests, edges, bushes, meadows, clearings.

What does primrose contain?

IN primrose roots saponins were found in an amount of 5-10%, essential oil - 0.08% and glycosides: primulaverip (primulaveroside), primverin (primveroside), which is a triterpene compound.

Saponins are also found in the leaves, flavonoids and saponins are found in the flowers. All parts of the plant are rich in ascorbic acid. In terms of dry matter, the leaves contain 5.9% and the flowers 4.7% ascorbic acid (vitamin C); a small amount of carotene was found in the leaves and roots.

Pharmacological properties of primrose

Action: due to the large amount of saponins, infusions and decoctions of primrose help in the treatment of colds, inflammation of the throat and larynx, flu, and bronchitis. Helps in the treatment of tuberculosis and pulmonary pneumoconiosis, an excellent expectorant. A course of primrose is recommended for smokers and people suffering from rheumatism. Compresses from the decoction reduce swelling and pain, and accelerate the healing of postoperative wounds.

Traditional medicine has used primrose for centuries to treat migraines, insomnia, and nervous tension. Primrose wine is recommended as a means of regulating blood circulation.

Primrose also has diuretic properties, so it is used to cleanse and detoxify the body.

When to collect and how to store Primrose officinalis

As a rule, the entire primrose plant is collected during flowering in May, and the roots in the fall. The leaves must be dried quickly, then the vitamins and beneficial properties of the raw materials will be preserved.

Rhizomes are harvested in the fall by digging them up with shovels. Clean off the soil, cut off the above-ground parts and quickly wash in cold running water. After preliminary drying in the open air, they are dried in attics under an iron roof, under sheds with good ventilation, or in dryers at a temperature of 40-50 degrees, spread in a thin layer on paper, fabric or sieves. Dry raw materials are packaged in bags or bales. Store in dry, well-ventilated areas. Shelf life is two years.

The leaves are collected at the beginning of flowering, plucking them with hands or cutting them with knives. Dry quickly in attics under an iron roof or in dryers at a temperature of 70-80 degrees, spreading them in a thin layer. Dry leaves are packed by pressing into bags. Store in dry, well-ventilated areas.

Flowers are collected at the beginning of flowering, picked by hand and placed in small baskets. Dry under shelters with good ventilation, spreading in a thin layer. Packed in metal cans of 5 or 10 kg and stored in dry, well-ventilated areas.

For what diseases is primrose used?

Primrose in scientific medicine

Leaves are used Folium Primuiae, flowers Flores Primulae and rhizomes with roots Radix Primulae. Leaves used as a vitamin preparation for the preparation of vitamin C concentrates, which are recommended for treatment of hypo- and vitamin deficiencies.

Roots contain saponins, glucosides, traces of essential oil, vitamins A and C. The roots are used as an excellent expectorant for respiratory diseases, especially bronchitis, pneumonia, whooping cough, asthma and as a diuretic and diaphoretic for the flu.

Primrose in folk medicine

Flowers primroses are used as a diaphoretic for colds, migraines, dizziness, insomnia, fever, heart disease and pulmonary tuberculosis.

Root decoction used for bronchitis, pneumonia, whooping cough as a painkiller (for joint pain), for chronic constipation, headaches, all diseases of the genitourinary tract and kidneys.

Powder from crushed primrose leaves is taken for lack of vitamins in the body, lethargy, lack of appetite, gum disease.

Primrose is used in homeopathy, and aqueous decoctions of the whole plant in veterinary medicine.

Use of primrose in medicine (recipes)

The rhizome of lambs in the form of a decoction or napara - 5 g per 1 glass of water - is used as an expectorant for bronchitis and coughs, diseases of the upper respiratory tract and colds. Thanks to the salicylic acid contained in primrose, the roots have a slight anti-inflammatory effect, stimulate metabolism and the secretion of gastric juices, sweat, and urine. The above decoction is consumed 1 tbsp. spoon with honey 4-5 times a day.

Flowers and the entire primrose plant also have an expectorant and anti-inflammatory effect; they are brewed at the rate of 5 g per 1 glass of water (the whole plant is taken 2 times more) and drunk in 5-6 doses, and also rinse the nose and gargle with steam. The same drug is used for headaches and to relieve fatigue, irritability, and as a mild sedative for children. Primrose leaves are rich in vitamin C, they are useful for use in cases of vitamin C deficiency and after serious illnesses, drink tea from the leaves with flowers (not boiled, but brewed), and cut into salads. Tea made from primrose herb is useful for people with joint diseases - it relieves pain, helps remove salts from the body, and has a mild sedative effect.

For poor appetite, cough, general weakness, hypovitaminosis, pneumonia, scurvy, take an infusion of primrose leaves: brew 5-10 g of leaf powder in 20 ml of boiling water, leave for 1 hour, strain. Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

For insomnia, constipation, general weakness, poor appetite, dizziness, cough, kidney and bladder diseases, take an infusion of primrose roots as a diuretic: brew 5 g of roots in 200 ml of boiling water, let it brew for 2 hours, strain. Drink 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

For pneumonia, bronchitis, and whooping cough, drink a decoction of primrose herb as an expectorant: boil 20 g of crushed herb in 200 ml of water for 20 minutes, strain. Take 1 tablespoon 3-4 times a day.

For dizziness, migraines, chronic constipation, take an infusion of primrose flowers: brew 25 g of primrose flowers in 200 ml of boiling water, let it brew for half an hour, strain. Drink 100-200 ml 1-3 times a day.

For respiratory diseases, gout, rheumatism, kidney and bladder diseases, take a decoction of primrose roots: boil 20 g of roots in 400 ml of water for 15 minutes, leave for 30 minutes, strain. Drink 100 ml 3-4 times a day.

A drink made from primrose flowers is very useful for strengthening general health: rinse 250 g of primrose flowers, add 1 liter of cold water, let it brew at room temperature until fermentation begins, add sugar or honey (to taste). Store the finished drink in a cool, dark place.

Primrose tea: Mix dried roots or leaves of primrose and St. John's wort herbs in equal quantities and chop. Brew as regular tea and drink with honey, sugar, jam, sweets, xylitol.

Fresh primrose leaves, collected at the beginning of flowering, are used for preparing salads. Just two primrose leaves are enough to satisfy the body's daily need for vitamin C.

Good to know...

• The stems and leaves are edible and can be used to make salads and cabbage soup.
• Primrose is a favorite plant of the European wild rabbit.
• Primrose is widely distributed as an ornamental plant.

In very early spring, after the snow melts, primrose flowers appear on the sun-warmed ground. They are also called primroses (“primus” is Latin for “first”).

It is a herbaceous perennial plant with elliptical leaves. Primrose height is 10-25 cm. Fragrant yellow flowers are collected in umbrella-shaped inflorescences.

Several dozen species of primrose are common in our country. The plant is native to South and North America, and primrose was brought to Europe in the 17th century. And already at the beginning of the next century it found its application in medicine.

There are many legends about the origin of primrose. One of the legends says that the Apostle Peter dropped the keys to the gates of heaven after learning that rejected spirits had forged these very keys. They fell to the ground, and beautiful flowers grew in this place. Indeed, flower inflorescences are somewhat reminiscent of a bunch of keys that were in ancient times. In German, primrose is called “heavenly springs”, “Peter’s springs”. In western Russia it is simply called “keys”.

The ancient Greeks called primrose the flower of the twelve gods. According to legend, twelve gods gathered together and decided the fate of a young man struck down by paralysis. They decided to turn it into a flower. This flower began to be considered a remedy for various diseases, including paralysis.

Useful properties of primrose

Primrose is known not only as a beautiful plant, but also as a plant that has beneficial medicinal properties.

The above-ground part of the plant contains many vitamins. Primrose leaves have a huge amount of ascorbic acid and carotene. The roots contain saponins, glycosides and essential oil.

Thanks to the high content of vitamin C and carotene, primrose officinalis comes to the rescue in the spring, the period of vitamin deficiency, when a person experiences a significant need for vitamins. The leaves can be eaten raw, prepared into salads, added to soups and stir-fries. They have a sweetish taste and a pleasant smell. Two leaves provide a person’s daily requirement of vitamin C. You can also use powder from dried leaves to season dishes; in this form, they retain up to 95% of vitamin C and do not lose their properties throughout the year.

Primrose leaves were also used to treat wounds or cuts; it was applied to the wound to reduce pain and speed up healing.

The plant has an analgesic effect (used to treat rheumatism) and a diuretic effect (in the treatment of bladder and kidney diseases).

Primrose is a good expectorant for bronchitis, laryngitis, pneumonia, whooping cough. It is used for sore throats, rhinitis, migraines, headaches, insomnia, and neurosis.

Primrose preparations have a vitamin and general strengthening effect. The drink made from the leaves and flowers of this plant is called a drink of vigor and health.

Use in folk medicine

• For nervous weakness, headaches, and insomnia, drink tea from primrose flowers.
• As a diaphoretic and diuretic, for colds and migraines, take tea from the flowers and leaves of the plant. You need 1 tbsp. pour a spoonful of dry leaves and flowers into a glass of boiling water, leave and take 4-6 tbsp. spoons every day.
• For coughs, chronic bronchitis, tracheobronchitis, use breast tea from primrose roots as an expectorant. To prepare it you need 1 tbsp. Pour one glass of boiling water over a spoonful of dried crushed roots and cook in a water bath for 30 minutes. The broth should be cooled at room temperature for 30 minutes, then strained and brought to the original volume. Take 1-2 tbsp 3-4 times before meals. spoon.
• As an expectorant for pneumonia, bronchitis, whooping cough, take a decoction of primrose herb, 1 tbsp. spoon 3-4 times a day. This requires 20g. pour 200 ml of herbs. water and boil for 20 minutes over low heat.
• for general weakness, hypovitaminosis, poor appetite, cough, bronchitis, rheumatism, gout, use an infusion of leaves: 5-10 g. Infuse dried leaves powder in 200 ml. boiling water Take 3-4 times a day, 1 tbsp. spoon.
• An infusion of primrose flowers helps with headaches, neuroses, dizziness, migraines, and chronic constipation. You need 25 g. Pour 1 glass of boiling water over the flowers and leave for half an hour. Take 1-3 times a day, 100-200 ml.

Primrose oil

The most popular of the many types of primrose is evening primrose. From its seeds I obtain oil, which is widely used in the cosmetic and food industries.

The beneficial properties of the oil have been discovered quite recently. In folk medicine, primrose seeds had no use. Their research began in the 80s of the last century, and then their unique property was established - to produce valuable oil.

The oil is transparent yellowish in color, similar in taste and composition to fish oil.

The healing powers of primrose oil

The medicinal properties of the oil are due to the content of unsaturated fatty acids in it: alpha-linoleic acid (70-79%) and gamma-linolenic acid (9.5-12%).

Oil properties:

1. Primrose oil has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and immunostimulating effects. It is especially valuable during the cold season, as it can strengthen the immune system.
2. Primrose oil, consumed as food, helps with kidney disease, arthritis, diabetes, prevents fatty liver, enhances fat burning, eases inflammatory processes in the intestines, improves digestion, and reduces abdominal pain.
3. Thanks to unsaturated fatty acids, primrose oil has a positive effect on the cardiovascular system, strengthens the walls of blood vessels, purifies the blood, and prevents strokes and myocardial infarction.
4. It is recommended to take the oil if you have high blood pressure and high cholesterol levels.
5. Using the oil externally and internally has a positive effect in the treatment of eczema. It can increase the human body’s resistance to various allergic reactions.
6. In 1973, the antitumor effect of the oil was established. Primrose oil should be taken in the treatment and prevention of breast cancer.
7. Thanks to its composition, the oil normalizes the hormonal levels of women and can reduce chest pain.
8. The use of primrose oil is effective for depression, migraines, anxiety and stress.

Cosmetic effect of oil

Primrose oil has also found its use in cosmetology. It can be used for any skin type, it has the ability to regenerate cells and reduce wrinkles, eliminate irritation and dryness of the skin of the face and the whole body.

The oil has a moisturizing, cleansing, softening, nourishing, anti-allergic and anti-inflammatory effect. It also has a beneficial effect on hair: it prevents hair loss, treats dandruff and revitalizes it.

Contraindications

Infusions and decoctions of primrose are not advisable for pregnant women, especially in the 1st trimester. Primrose oil is contraindicated in patients with schizophrenia, psoriasis and those taking epileptogenic drugs.

Before taking, you should consult your doctor.

After long winter cold, we, like children, rejoice in the warm spring rays of the sun. The first spring flowers are appearing, they are especially pleasant and beautiful for us. Every person knows that the very first flowers that bloom in the spring, even if the snow has not yet completely melted, are snowdrops. But not everyone knows that you can also find out about the end of winter if you see spring primrose.

For centuries, people have used plants for medicinal purposes. Primrose, or as this flower is also called, primrose, is a medicinal plant. With the help of this flower, a large number of diseases are treated, and this plant is also an effective cosmetic product.

Description of the flower

The flower grows mainly in forests, consisting of deciduous trees and shrubs, as well as on small grassy hills. They delight with their blooms throughout April, May and June, and the fruits ripen in July and August.

A medicinal plant that lives for more than two years. It has a powerful root with a large number of fleshy lateral appendages (corded roots). The leaves growing at the root of the rosette are elongated oval in shape, slightly narrowed, wrinkled, and smoothly lowered to the ground. It has a small number of leafless stems from 15 to 30 cm in height, which gradually change one after another as they fade, and at the end of the stem there is a yellow umbrella-shaped inflorescence.

The fruit has the shape of an ovoid, erect, multi-seeded capsule. When the box opens, the seeds are carried by the wind, but only if the weather is good, and in bad weather the box closes tightly. The entire Primrose officinalis plant is characterized by useful medicinal properties (rhizome, leaves, flowers, aerial parts, flower arrows).

Features of the workpiece

The preparation is carried out as follows:

These flowers are grown in England and the Netherlands as a salad plant for preparing vitamin salads from the leaves.

The medicinal primrose was known in ancient times; a large number of legends were written about it. It was considered a healing plant that could cure all diseases. In ancient times, this flower was used to treat paralysis and pain in the sacroiliac joint. And for this reason, in our time, such primrose is also called paralysis grass.

Useful properties of the plant

Rhizome extract used as a useful and effective expectorant medicine during cough, long-term disease of the respiratory system (bronchitis), as well as bronchial pneumonia. This flower is often used in combination with such beneficial plants as calendula, medicinal angelica, chamomile, and anise.

In alternative medicine (folk medicine), a decoction of the medicinal flower is used as a medicine for expectoration. The decoction is used not only to treat bronchitis and pneumonia, but also to treat asthma. It contains a sedative or psycholeptics that have an analgesic effect. The tincture is used for intestinal dysfunction (which is manifested by systematically insufficient emptying), sleep disorders, and also for dizziness.

An interesting fact is that in Transcaucasia they make medicinal powder from primrose and use it for impotence.

The stem of the medicinal flower is used in ointments, mainly for the treatment of eczema of the scalp. A decoction is made from it to treat pneumonia, bronchitis and a contagious, predominantly childhood disease, expressed in attacks of convulsive coughing (whooping cough). The juice of the medicinal plant helps improve vision, reduces bleeding from the depths of the gingival sulcus, and also with vitamin deficiency. A solution from a fresh plant is used in homeopathy treatment.

The leaves are used in medicinal tinctures. They are used for acute lack of vitamins in the body, lack of appetite, constant fatigue of the body, as well as disease of the joints and muscles with damage to the cardiovascular system, which are usually accompanied by acute pain and aches.

The inflorescences, which are part of decoctions and tinctures for bronchitis, increase sweating in order to enhance the body's release of heat, the release of water, salts, toxins, and also give an expectorant result. Flower juice is used for paralysis, hypothermia, heart and vascular disease, kidney disease, and malaria.

Types of primrose

Today, more than 500 species of primroses (primroses) are known. They differ in the coloring of the inflorescences, flowering time and leaf shape. Species that have medicinal properties, the power of which was learned in ancient times, deserve special attention. Not only the spring primrose variety has medicinal properties, but also the large-cupped, tall and mealy variety.

Primrose large-cupped- a perennial plant that is classified as a subspecies of spring primrose, and they are also equivalent in medicinal properties. The large-cupped primrose grows in the northeastern regions of Eurasia, and is sometimes found in some regions of Russia and the Caucasus.

The flower has two differences: first, it has a larger capsule and second, short pubescent leaves. This plant is used as an active expectorant in the treatment of the respiratory system, pneumonia and whooping cough. Additionally, it has an effect that prevents muscle spasms (antispasmodic), and in turn is used as a sedative and diuretic. Often used as a medicine in the treatment of: delayed bowel movement (constipation), paralysis, inflammation of the colon. And also for fatigue, colds, headaches, kidney disease, rheumatism.

To prepare a diaphoretic and diuretic infusion, you need to take 1 tablespoon of dried rhizomes and leaves, add hot water (200 grams), let it brew for 3 hours, and then filter. Take 1 tablespoon of infusion 3 times a day. The medicinal infusion cannot be stored for more than one day.

Primrose tall is a perennial mountain plant well known in Central Europe. The height of this flower ranges from 10 to 40 cm, the flowers are lemon yellow in color, and the wrinkled leaves are covered with velvety hairs. Inflorescences grow in length from 9 to 15 cm, their number reaches 10-30 pieces on one shoot. This plant prefers moist and loose soil and grows in partial shade. In Russia, the tall primrose does not grow wild. This flower is similar in composition to the spring variety of primrose, therefore their area of ​​use is the same.

Powdery primrose- the plant grows up to 20 cm, the main root does not stand out, adventitious roots dominate, and the primrose flower consists of a stem with leaves and inflorescences distributed on it (arrows-peduncles), the flowers are shaped like an umbrella.

On the primrose there is a snow-white and yellow coating (mainly on the lower part of the leaves). The inflorescences of the mealy primrose differ from the representatives of this species in their colors; they can be bright or dark lilac, pinkish-violet, but sometimes can be found with white flowers. They also have a surprising difference: in the middle of the flower there is a bright eye, the size of which can reach up to 1 cm.

The flower of this subspecies can most often be seen in the wild in the territories of European Russia, as well as this plant grows in the south of Siberia and the Far East. Medicinal decoctions and infusions are used in alternative medicine in the treatment of dermatitis (inflammatory skin lesions). Medicines (ointments) from this primrose are applied to the scalp, a useful procedure for improving hair growth. Basically, this subspecies is similar in composition to spring primrose.

Spring primrose - cosmetic product

To keep your skin beautiful, young, and most importantly, healthy, you must sometimes use the following products:

Contraindications for taking spring primrose

Contains spring primrose There are substances that increase blood clotting. You should not use primrose decoctions together with anticoagulant medications.

Syn: spring primrose, lady's hands.

Perennial early flowering herbaceous plant. Introduced into cultivation in the 16th century as an ornamental and medicinal plant. A good honey plant. In medicine it is used as a diaphoretic, antipyretic, and expectorant.

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Flower formula

Primrose flower formula: *H(5)L(5)T5P 1 .

In medicine

For medicinal purposes, roots and leaves are used, less often flowers in the form of an infusion. Preparations of primrose roots are used as an expectorant, diaphoretic, and antipyretic for bronchitis, catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, and pneumonia. An infusion of primrose flowers is used as a blood purifier for gout, kidney and bladder diseases, neuralgia, migraines, dizziness, insomnia, rapid heartbeat, rheumatism, etc. Primrose preparations have sedative, antispasmodic and mild laxative properties, and are prescribed as a choleretic and diuretic. , and also as a pain reliever for paralysis and convulsions. Fresh leaves of the primrose officinalis are used as a vitamin remedy for spring fatigue and anemia.

Primrose leaves, as a rich source of vitamin C, are included in vitamin preparations and chest teas for colds.

The roots of Primrose officinalis are described in the pharmacopoeias of Romania and a number of other countries and are widely used in homeopathy.

Primrose rhizomes in the form of a dry extract from the roots – “Primulina” – are used as a diaphoretic, antipyretic and expectorant, especially for bronchitis.

Primrose oil has a beneficial effect on the cardiovascular system, normalizes hormone levels, strengthens the immune system, and improves joint condition. Primrose syrup "Gerbion" is a popular, unique drug that is a powerful expectorant and anti-inflammatory agent, has an antimicrobial effect and reduces the viscosity of sputum. "Gerbion" is indicated as an additional agent in complex therapy in the treatment of various inflammatory diseases (tracheitis and bronchitis, acute respiratory infections accompanied by a dry cough).

Contraindications and side effects

Primrose officinalis is a low-toxic plant; if the dosage is observed, it does not cause side effects. But if you have an individual intolerance or an allergy to this plant, as well as with a peptic ulcer, primrose preparations cannot be taken. During pregnancy, primrose preparations are not recommended, since this plant stimulates uterine contractions and can lead to miscarriage. In addition, long-term use of primrose may cause allergic skin reactions (itchy rash), and sometimes nausea and vomiting. By strictly following the dosage, side effects of the herb can be avoided.

In other areas

In some European countries, England, Holland, Belgium, primrose is grown as a salad plant. Fresh leaves are added to soups, salads, vinaigrettes, and roasts. Dried and crushed leaves can be used to season dishes. Primrose flowers and leaves are also used in the production of alcoholic beverages.

Primrose has long been introduced into cultivation as a valuable honey-bearing, medicinal and ornamental plant.

Classification

Primrose officinalis (lat. Primula officinalis Jacq.) - belongs to the genus primrose or primrose (lat. Primula) of the primrose family (lat. Primulaceae). In botanical literature, the plant is called spring primrose (lat. Primula veris L.). The genus Primrose is the most numerous, with at least 500 species, distributed in temperate and subtropical regions of the northern hemisphere, especially widely in the mountains, less often in the tropics and cold regions. The centers of species diversity of primroses are the Himalayas, the mountains of Southwestern China and Central Asia, the Caucasus and the Alps.

Botanical description

A perennial, early-blooming small herbaceous plant (15-30 cm in height) with a short, almost horizontal rhizome (6-8 cm in length), set with whitish cord-like roots. All leaves are in a basal rosette, oval, ovate or ovate-oblong, blunt at the apex, wrinkled, pubescent or almost bare on the upper side, with winged petioles. The edges of the leaf blades are crenate or wavy. From the middle of the rosette emerges one or several leafless peduncles (flower shoots), bearing an umbrella-shaped inflorescence drooping to one side. The flowers are bisexual, bright yellow, 8-15 mm in diameter, with a honey scent, on short pedicels (3-20 mm in length). The perianth is double, the calyx is tubular-bell-shaped with 5 sharp teeth, the corolla is funnel-shaped with 5 concave lobes. There are 5 stamens with short filaments attached to the corolla tube. Pistil with an upper single-locular ovary. Formula of primrose flower - *H(5)L(5)T5P 1 . The fruit is an ovoid multi-seeded capsule, opening with denticles. Blooms in early spring from mid-April to June.

Spreading

In the central zone of the European part of Russia, mainly in forest and forest-steppe zones, a single species is found - spring primrose, or rams (Primula veris L.) with yellow flowers. It grows in the mountains in wet alpine and subalpine meadows, in forest clearings and ravines, on forest edges, in sparse deciduous and mixed forests, upland meadows, steppes, on slopes and hills, embankments along railways and highways. Occurs frequently, but scatteredly.

Regions of distribution on the map of Russia.

Procurement of raw materials

Leaves and rhizomes with roots are used as medicinal raw materials. The leaves are collected during flowering and dried in dryers at a temperature of 80-90 o C or in attics with good ventilation. Rhizomes with roots are dug up at the end of the growing season (in autumn or early spring), cleaned of soil, remnants of leaves, and peduncles. Dry in air in a well-ventilated area or in dryers at a temperature of 50-60 o C. The dried raw materials are odorless and slightly bitter in taste. Store dried raw materials in packaged form in dry, well-ventilated areas. Shelf life up to 2 years.

Chemical composition

All organs of Primrose officinalis contain ascorbic acid - vitamin C: (leaves - 5.8%, flowers - 4.76%). The roots contain essential oil (0.08%), triterpene saponins (5-10%), glycosides (primulaverine, primverine), flavonoids, carotenoids, essential oil - (0.08%). The leaves contain carotene (3 mg%), flavonoids, triterpene saponins, glycosides containing derivatives of benzoic and salicylic acids, and large amounts of vitamins (A, C, group B, E). The herb also contains organic acids and minerals (iron, manganese).

Pharmacological properties

Galenic preparations of Primrose officinalis have an expectorant effect and enhance the secretory activity of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract and bronchi. The expectorant properties are due to the content of triterpene glycosides in the roots of primrose. In addition, the most valuable biologically active substances contained in the primrose herb provide other properties: antipyretic, diaphoretic, sedative, antispasmodic, choleretic, diuretic, analgesic and slightly laxative. Along with these beneficial properties, primrose officinalis is a valuable vitamin plant, the leaves of which are characterized by a high content of ascorbic acid (up to 500 mg). The content of vitamin C in large quantities determines the range of its use (vitaminosis, treatment of colds and nervous diseases, cough, etc.). Vitamin C is also a powerful antioxidant that plays a huge role in fighting toxins and free radicals.

Use in folk medicine

In folk medicine, primrose has long been widely used by healers in the treatment of many diseases. An infusion of primrose roots is used as an expectorant for catarrh of the upper respiratory tract, chronic tracheitis and bronchitis, and bronchopneumonia. Decoction, tincture and syrup of primrose in folk medicine are used in the treatment of tuberculosis, bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough; as a sedative, antispasmodic, diuretic, mild laxative and analgesic (for convulsions and paralysis); infusion - for constipation, insomnia, general weakness, poor appetite, cough, dizziness; as a diuretic - for diseases of the kidneys and bladder. Primrose juice is used to reduce bleeding gums during scurvy, paralysis, heart disease, dizziness, insomnia, to improve vision, for vitamin deficiencies, and to normalize digestion; for influenza, sore throat, bronchitis, hay fever; as a diaphoretic, antipyretic and laxative. An infusion of leaves is recommended for poor appetite, general weakness, cough, scurvy, gout, rheumatism and vitamin deficiencies. In folk medicine, an infusion of primrose rhizomes is used not only as an expectorant, but also to resolve external hemorrhages. Externally, a decoction of primrose in the form of lotions and compresses is used for bruises. The aerial part is included in the ointment for the treatment of scalp eczema. A decoction of primrose roots is recommended for lichen planus, boils, ulcers, skin rashes, psoriasis and baldness.

Historical reference

There are many legends and beliefs associated with the primrose, it is even mentioned in Shakespeare and in various historical stories, but it gained the greatest fame as a medicinal plant. Primrose has been known as a medicinal plant since ancient Greece.

Primrose flowers usually point downwards and resemble a bunch of keys, which is why they are called keys. In addition, the name of the plant comes from the Latin word “prímus” - “first”, this is explained by the fact that it blooms in early spring, one of the first, and sometimes even before the snow has completely melted. This is where the Russian name comes from. Because of the appearance of its leaves, primroses are popularly called rams. It has another ancient name - lady's hands. Indeed, if you look at the buds of the primrose, then how the cup-sleeve, gathered in rakes at the bottom, reveals a golden palm with five fingers clenched into a fist.

Literature

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1. Biological encyclopedic dictionary (edited by M.S. Gilyarov). M. 1986. 820 p.
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Botanical-pharmacognostic dictionary: Reference. allowance / Ed. K. F. Blinova, G. P. Yakovleva. M.: Higher. school, 1990. P. 169.

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Spring primrose, or primrose, is a perennial plant from the Primrose family ( Primulaceae). This is a unique healing plant that is used in herbal medicine, folk and traditional medicine. The aerial and root parts are used in the preparation of medicines.

The stem is straight, vertical, rounded, leafless, grows up to 25 cm. Dense, succulent root system with many thin branches. Whole leaves grow from the basal part, elongated on both sides, drooping with small hairs. The flowers are fragrant, pale golden in color, located in a group at the top of the stem, falling to one side. Flowering begins even before the snow completely melts and continues through the month of June.

Primrose contains saponins, flavones (biologically active plant compounds of a colorless or slightly yellowish tint), essential oils, silicic acid, tannins, vitamins C, A, carotene, ascorbic acid, glycosides, alcohols, manganese salts.

More useful substances are concentrated in the underground part of the primrose than in the flowers. The medicinal properties make the rhizome of the plant a valuable product of pharmacology and naturopathy.

Why is it useful?

The main purpose of the medical use of this plant material can rightfully be considered the treatment of respiratory diseases. Medicinal properties of primrose include:

• diaphoretic;
• diuretic;
• expectorant;
• restorative;
• painkiller;
• sedative;
• anti-inflammatory;
• and laxative actions.

Preparations based on primrose stabilize the functioning of the adrenal glands, the digestive tract, help remove phlegm from the lungs, and treat diseases of the urinary tract and kidneys. They fight malaise, fatigue, migraines, weakness, sleep and appetite disorders.

Range of applications

Decoctions and infusions from the roots of the plant are used in the treatment of:

• tracheitis, laryngitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, tuberculosis, asthma - as an expectorant;
• constipation - in the form of a laxative;
• diseases of the urinary tract and kidneys - as a diuretic (diuretic) drug;
• paralysis, rheumatism of joints, convulsions - as a sedative and analgesic;
• colds - as a general strengthening, immunostimulating drug in the form of rinses;
• bruises and skin diseases - in the form of compresses, wraps and lotions from the decoction.

Decoctions and juice of the aerial parts are prescribed for the treatment of:

• pneumonia, bronchitis, whooping cough, sore throat;
• sleep disturbances, fatigue, lethargy, malaise, poor appetite;
• paralysis, rheumatism of joints, convulsions;
• vitamin deficiency, including lack of vitamins C (scurvy) and A;
• gum diseases;
• disturbances in the functioning of the visual organs;
• digestive tract;

This is a wonderful natural expectorant, analgesic, restorative, laxative, antipyretic and diaphoretic.

Tincture from the leaves is used as an expectorant, tonic, vitamin-rich medicine, and also for:

• vitamin deficiency - just two leaves contain the daily requirement of ascorbic acid;
• vitamin A deficiency;
• weakness, fatigue, lethargy;
• cough, pneumonia, bronchitis;
• rheumatism.

To quickly heal wounds and cuts, herbalists advise applying a primrose leaf to the affected area - it has strong antimicrobial and regenerating properties.

Decoctions and infusions of flowers are prepared using:

• bronchitis and cough;
• paralysis, rheumatism;
• ailments;
• severe headaches.

Used as a diaphoretic, restorative, diuretic, analgesic, and expectorant medicine.

Cosmetic potential

Cosmetologists advise adding the decoction to the water when bathing.

Primrose is widely used in cooking. The dried underground part is ground and used as a seasoning for soups and main courses. Fresh stems and leaves are added to salads. They have a pleasant, sweetish taste.

Olive fabric dye is also obtained from the aerial parts of the plant.

Primrose has also gained popularity in landscape design.

Contraindications

Primrose is contraindicated in various preparations:

• at any stage of pregnancy - it can provoke uterine contractions and miscarriage;
• for indigestion, ulcers;
• for allergies: itching, burning, inflammation, blisters appear in places of contact with the plant;
• in case of individual intolerance to plant components.

When purchasing an herbal mixture at a pharmacy, make sure that you have no contraindications for taking it, which means that the herbs will not cause you side effects. At the first negative symptoms after taking the medicine, you should immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor.

Traditional medicine recipes

For bronchitis, sore throat, severe cough

• 2-3 tbsp. l. leaves;
• warm or hot boiled water – 1 glass.

Infuse the decoction for two hours. Drink before meals.

Upper respiratory tract diseases

• 1 tbsp. l. powdered roots;
• water – 2-3 glasses.

Boil for 10-15 minutes, let it brew. Drink throughout the day after meals.

General strengthening decoction

• 1 tbsp. l. flowers;
• hot water - 1 glass.

Simmer for 10 minutes, drink instead of tea. This drink is good for neuralgia, weakness, and sleep disturbances. It acts as a sedative and hypnotic on children.

The healing properties of flowers in combination with other medicinal herbs acquire a more pronounced therapeutic effect. For example, in combination with hawthorn flowers, they normalize the functioning of the heart and normalize rapid heartbeat.

And if you add calendula flowers to the collection, you can drink it for nervous tension, poor sleep and frequent stress.

Primrose juice

To prepare juice before flowering, primrose leaves and stems are collected.

1. Vegetable raw materials are finely chopped, placed in containers, sugar is added, and mixed.
2. Infuse in a cold place until a large amount of juice forms.
3. The contents of the container are drained, the herbal mixture is squeezed out and stored in a closed jar.

The immunostimulating properties of such sweetened juice have a beneficial effect in the treatment and prevention of vitamin deficiency and colds.

Due to its numerous beneficial properties and a minimal list of contraindications, primrose is very popular among people who use the secrets of traditional medicine to improve their health.