What Is Potentilla Anserina?

Habitat

• Although Potentilla anserina is found in many areas of the world, it usually grows best in sandy soils that facilitate good drainage of water. The plant thrives on moderate heat and mild to medium humidity. It tolerates drought conditions, but only for a limited time. Because of its water needs, soil preferences and temperature ideals, Potentilla anserina grows most often at the edge of lakes and rivers.

Medicinal Uses

• Over the centuries, common silverweed has gained a reputation as an herbal remedy for a number of ailments. Owing to a chemical called tannin, Potentilla anserina can help reduce swelling in a person's throat or mouth caused by an allergic reaction or sickness. It can also be used as a treatment for diarrhea. Potentilla anserina should never be consumed by pregnant women, as it can trigger uterine contractions that may lead to premature birth. On the other hand, in cases where pregnancy needs to be induced, common silverweed has traditionally been used to hasten the labor process.

Food

• Potentilla anserina has also been used as a source of food in indigenous cultures. The leaves can be roasted or boiled and then eaten, or a tea can be made. Teas are usually the means of extracting its medical benefits, but the tea is also just an enjoyable drink. Silverweed roots were also a popular food among some indigenous tribes, especially those of North America. Within some tribes there was a tradition that the topmost, shorter parts of the roots were appropriate food for the common working class, while the longer, more tender parts of the roots toward the bottom were meant for important people like chiefs.

Folklore

• The Argentina anserina herb fits into some Christian religious traditions. Specifically, there is a folktale that describes Potentilla anserina's, or Argentina anserina's, leaves and yellow flowers as the "footsteps of Christ" left as behind from his walks about Palestine. Though it is not known specifically how or where this tradition arose, it illustrates just how wide the distribution of Potentilla anserina is and how long it has been around.