So much to write above this little wonder, that just turn up in the garden. For me one such plant was Parietaria officinalis (Pellitory of the Wall) a member of the  Urticaceae (Nettle) family. Parietaria, is derived from the Latin word paries meaning a wall. It is commonly found growing in nooks and crannies in dry walls hence the popular English name. A branched, bushy, herbaceous, perennial plant, with reddish, brittle stems and narrow, stalked leaves. The small, stalkless green flowers bloom during the summer months. The traditional use of this plant was for kidney and bladder disorders, specifically for urinary tract infections, kidney stones and bladder gravel. The diuretic action increases the flow of urine and is a particular characteristic of a plant with a rich source of potassium. Also a conventional cough medicine with expectorant properties bronchial affections. As well as the emollient, demulcent, vulnerary, diuretic and purifying qualities of this medicinal plant, it is also important to note that this plant can also be used to relieve pain caused by wounds and burns as well as speeding up their healing process with the application of a poultice. We love these seeming insignificant plants that are overlooked, have gone out of fashion but still wonder along dry stone walls keeping their secrets until noticed.

For internal use: Cystitis, kidney stones, bladder gravel, oedema, coughs an infusion of 25 grams (Dried) 50 grams (fresh plant) 250ml of the plant infusion taken 4x daily. For external use: Prepare a poultice using leaves and buds to calm burns and speed wound healing. Miscellaneous Fact: The whole plant can be used for cleaning glass such as windows and also copper containers – we presume because of tannin content and general astringency.