Plants of Gairloch and Their Uses

Thrift (Ameria Maritima) – This common and pretty plant is common throughout Europe and although not used exclusively as a medicinal plant it does have some uses. These include being boiled in milk in ancient times as a remedy to tuberculosis and as a cure for hangovers. Other uses include the plant being dried and used to treat obesity, nervous disorders and urinary infections. For the plants to be used for these remedies the plant must be taken orally as if used on in an external manner could led to rashes and irritations.

The Thrift can be found along most coastlines, as well as some mountain pastures.

Bog Myrtle (Myrica Gale) – This common and well known plant of the highlands has several uses which include: The leaves in ancient times were used for making tea or as a seasoning for meals. If using them for tea it is recommended that the oil on the top of the leaves is skimmed off before use as it has some toxicity. Other uses include acting as an insect repellent, a remedy for digestive issues, skin ailments and respiratory problems. its natural oils have also been used for their anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and analgesic properties.

The Bog Myrtle can be found in wet or boggy/peaty environments as well as along the side of river banks across Europe.

Stinging Nettles (Urtica Dioica) – The common stinging nettle has been used for centuries for food and as a medicinal plant which is often overlooked in the modern era but this plant is very useful for many things. Some of which include: Reducing inflammation, relieving joint pain, treatment for eczema, reducing enlarged prostates, treatment for hay fever, lowering of blood pressure, a method to lower blood sugar levels, and last but certainly not least it has been used to make a rather delicious nettle soup.

A bed of common stinging nettles (Urtica dioica)

Nettles can be found in most habitats all through Britain and Europe.

Carline Thistle (Carlina Acaulis) – This well known plant was named after Charlamenge who supposedly used it to end an epidemic of plague amongst his army. It uses including: acting as an aphrodisiac, treatment for bowel spasms, urinary issues, liver congestion and treatment for breaking fevers.

The Carline Thistle can be found in heathland, grassland, and moorlands across Europe.

Heather (Caluna Vulgaris) – This well known highland plant has been used for centuries. It can be made into a tea which helps with urinary and digestive, and kidney issues. it can also help with gout, arthritis, sleep disorders, breathing problems, coughs and even colds.

Heather can often be be found in heather land, moorland, grasslands and even woodlands.