Lady’s Mantle is a perennial herb that I have used for many years in bespoke skincare. Alchemists in the past were fascinated by the Lady’s Mantle plant. They believed that the dewdrops on the plant had magical properties, and used them in their mystical practices. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries and as such, has many local names such as Bear’s Foot, Lion’s Foot, Stellaria, and Nine Hooks.
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Botanical Profile of Lady’s Mantle
Lady’s Mantle, scientifically known as Alchemilla Vulgaris, is a perennial herb native to Europe, North America, and parts of Asia. The herb’s common name comes from medieval times. It was named after the Virgin Mary because its leaves look like her mantle (an old term for a cloak). In modern botanical taxonomy, it is classified within the Rosaceae family.
Key Characteristics:
- Leaves: The leaves are notable for their rounded shape, with distinctive scalloped edges. After rain, dewdrops are often seen beautifully balanced on them, owing to their water-repellent properties. Some people believed the dewdrops could turn led into gold, hence the Alchemilla.
- Flowers: From June to August, it sprouts tiny yellow-greenish flowers that cluster in loose sprays.
- Height: It typically grows to about 30 cm to 45 cm tall.
- Habitat: Prefers cool climates and thrives in well-drained soil, often found in meadows and woodland clearings.
- Harvesting: The whole herb is gathered when in full flower and dried. The aerial parts are most commonly used, while an ethanolic extract is made from the roots.
Ancient Remedies and Early Medicine
Lady’s Mantle was cherished by ancient healers who recognised its medicinal value in treating various ailments. Greek physicians such as Dioscorides praised its astringent qualities, using it to aid in wound healing and staunch bleeding. Historical documents indicate that plant extracts were commonly used in poultices and decoctions to reduce inflammation and soothe irritations. It was also found to have a protective effect against ulcers.
Mediaeval Usage of Lady’s Mantle
By the medieval era, Lady’s Mantle had become a staple in monastic gardens. Herbalists of that period extensively recorded the traditional uses of this plant, including aiding digestion and improving women’s health, particularly for menstrual and post-partum issues. Herbal books from the time, like the one by German Abbess Hildegard von Bingen, show how important it was as a medicinal plant for women’s reproductive system.
Transition to Modern Herbalism
As herbalism evolved from traditional to more scientific pharmacological approaches, Lady’s Mantle maintained its status in the herbal pharmacopoeia. In the 19th century, people started using plant extract to treat skin conditions because of its tannin and salicylic acid content. The Ellagic Acid content was researched to study its antioxidant activity and antimicrobial properties. It was discovered that these antioxidants have anti-inflammatory effects and also boost the immune system.
Active Compounds in Lady’s Mantle
Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla Vulgaris) is an herbaceous plant rich in bioactive compounds that are beneficial for skin care. In this section, I will discuss the specific compounds that contribute to its efficacy.
Tannins and Their Skin Benefits
Lady’s Mantle is rich in tannins, which are a group of astringent phytochemicals. Research shows they provide several benefits for skin health, which include:
- Tightening skin: The phytochemicals help in reducing the appearance of pores and improve skin’s firmness and texture.
- Soothing irritation: Useful in calming inflammation and redness.
These properties are valuable in toners and serums designed for mature skin types and any anti-ageing skincare products.
Salicylic Acid and Its Properties
Salicylic Acid, a beta hydroxy acid (BHA), presents in Lady’s Mantle in smaller quantities. Its properties are as follows:
- Exfoliation: It facilitates the removal of dead skin cells.
- Sebum regulation: It helps in balancing oil production, which can reduce acne.
For these reasons, I have frequently used Lady’s Mantle infusions in acne treatments and exfoliating products.
Flavonoids and Antioxidant Effects
Flavonoids are potent antioxidants that protect skin cells from oxidative stress. These antioxidants help in:
- Protecting from environmental damage: These compounds shield the skin from harmful UV rays and pollution.
- Promoting collagen production: They support skin structure and elasticity.
Antioxidant-rich flavonoids play a crucial role in rejuvenating and protecting the skin by repairing damage caused by UV rays and the natural ageing process.
Lady’s Mantle in Skincare Products
Incorporated widely in many of my cosmetic formulations, Lady’s Mantle gives amazing soothing and healing benefits. Many bespoke skincare lines often infuse its extracts into various products, capitalising on its benefits.
Facial Toners
Including Lady’s Mantle herbal tea in facial toners makes them superb at minimising pores and improving skin tone. Of course, such sprays can be used all over the body for their tightening and firming effects. The herb complements the actions of DL-Panthenol for keeping your skin well hydrated.
Moisturisers and Anti-Ageing Creams
Lady’s Mantle is also a common component in many of my moisturisers and anti-ageing formulations. I love that this ingredient has potent antioxidants, protecting skin from free radicals and photo-ageing.
- Key constituents: Flavonoids, Tannins, Salicylic Acid, and Ellagic Acid.
- Beneficial properties: Anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant.
This combination often yields creams that claim to firm the skin and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Wound Healing and Skin Repair Formulations
Lady’s Mantle is great to use in skin repair products. Its wound-healing properties are attributed to its tannins and salicylic acid content, which promotes skin regeneration and reduces inflammation. Skin rejuvenation also equals younger, fresher looking skin.
It is very effective in a cream designed for dry and sensitive skin. It helps to reduce the size of large pores when used in creams and toners.
If skin has been damaged, it accelerates the healing process and its astringent effect protects newly formed elastin fibres from damage.
All of the above benefits mean that it is a great herb to include in eczema and psoriasis products. You can read more about the 8 Best Herbs for Treating Eczema Naturally
Scientific Studies on Lady’s Mantle
Recent research has underscored the significance of Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla Vulgaris) as a beneficial source of bioactive compounds useful in dermatology. I’ll highlight notable studies that substantiate its use in skincare.
In 2017, a study published by the Journal of Ethnopharmacology demonstrated that Lady’s Mantle extract exhibits antioxidant properties. Researchers found it effectively scavenges free radicals, thus providing a scientific basis for its use in anti-ageing products.
Another study confirmed the efficacy of Lady’s Mantle in wound healing. This will also make it effective at skin rejuvenation in skincare products.
A 2020 publication that investigated the plant’s salicylic acid content. This compound is known for its exfoliating action, and the study revealed its presence in Lady’s Mantle contributes to skin’s renewal processes.
How to Use Lady’s Mantle in Daily Skincare
Lady’s Mantle (Alchemilla Vulgaris) offers soothing properties for the skin. Its firming qualities make it a valuable ingredient for homemade skincare preparations. You may be surprised to learn how effective it is when combined with cannabis extracts.
Combining CBD with Lady’s Mantle
CBD is a powerful antioxidant known for its various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties. When combined with Lady’s Mantle, the synergistic effect can enhance their biological properties. Lady’s Mantle is rich in phytochemicals that contribute to its free radical scavenging activity, making it a valuable herb in natural medicine. The phytochemical profile and biological activity of Lady’s Mantle complement the effects of CBD, creating a potent combination for overall wellness.
Utilising a water-soluble CBD extract can further improve the bioavailability of the compound when paired with Lady’s Mantle. This allows for better absorption and utilisation of CBD’s therapeutic effects.
Lady’s Mantle and CBD Toner:
Stage 1: (preparation of the herbal infusion – room temperature)
3g Lady’s Mantle dried herb
120g Boiling distilled water
Stage 2: (room temperature)
92g Herbal infusion from Stage 1 above
5g Niacinamide Powder (*Check the price on Amazon)
2g Saliguard® PCG (*Check the price on Amazon)
1g Water-soluble CBD Isolate (*Check the price on Amazon)
Method:
- Make the Stage 1 herbal infusion in a French press or a jug and leave to stand for 10 minutes.
- Strain and weigh out 92g into a clean container and leave it to cool to room temperature.
- Add the remaining ingredients and stir until the powders are dissolved.
- Bottle into a spray bottle and label with the date.
The Niacinamide Powder is also known as Vitamin B3, which also has a wide array of skin benefits. Use this spray as often as you like all over your body.
You can read more about the tools and equipment used in this blog.
Safety Profile and Potential Side Effects
In all my years of using Lady’s Mantle in skincare, I have found its safety profile to be generally favourable. However, there are potential side effects to be mindful of.
When applied topically, Lady’s Mantle is typically well-tolerated, but skin irritation or allergic reactions are always possible. It is essential to perform a patch test before using any new product containing Lady’s Mantle extract. If redness or itching develops, discontinue use immediately and consult a healthcare professional.
I only use it externally in skincare and a lot of the warnings are for people taking it internally as teas or as supplements. I do not have knowledge about this and the possible drug interactions. As my experience is skincare based only, consult with your healthcare provider first.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lady’s Mantle?
Lady’s Mantle is a medicinal herb which belongs to the Rosaceae family. It is known for its anti-inflammatory and wound healing properties, primarily due to the presence of flavonoids and tannins.
How is Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract Prepared?
Alchemilla extract is typically prepared as an ethanolic extract of aerial parts of dried Laqdy’s Mantle herb. This yields the bioactive compounds, including essential oils and glycosides.
What are the Medicinal Uses of Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract?
Alchemilla Extract has been traditionally used for its antioxidant activity and as a natural anti-inflammatory agent. It is known to have anti-microbial and protective effects, and is often used in the treatment of ulcers and other skin disorders.
Is Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract Effective in Wound Healing?
Studies have shown that Alchemilla extract exhibits biological activities that promote wound healing, attributed to its astringent properties and ability to protect the skin barrier. It also has free radical scavenging activity which can aid in preventing premature skin ageing.
What is the Traditional Use of Alchemilla Vulgaris Extract?
Alchemilla extract has a long history of use in folk medicine and has been used for centuries to treat skin problems. It is a staple in herbal drugs due to its medicinal properties.
Conclusion
Lady’s Mantle has been a revered herb throughout history, known for its skin benefits. Its tightening properties make it ideal for tightening pores and improving the skin’s appearance. As someone who values reliable and traditional remedies, I find its use in modern cosmetics both reassuring and fascinating. The high antioxidant levels present in the plant are beneficial in protecting the skin from oxidative stress.
In my experience, the gentle soothing qualities of Lady’s Mantle are excellent for calming irritated skin. I’ve increasingly incorporated it into formulations aimed at those with sensitive skin. Its role in assisting skin repair from minor wounds and abrasions also cannot be understated.
Here is a brief list of its notable skincare benefits:
- Astringent: Offers a toning effect for a firmer complexion.
- Antioxidant-rich: Helps fend off environmental stressors.
- Soothing: Calms sensitive and irritated skin.
- Gentle healing: Aids in repairing minor skin damage.
As more research shows the benefits of blending ancient herbs with contemporary science, it’s clear that Lady’s Mantle holds a well-deserved place in both home remedies and the sophisticated skincare products of today.
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