Hepatica

Hepatica nobilis is an example of a herb that was once used as a medicinal herb and has now fallen from favour. It is a native of Europe. I grow it for its delicate early spring flowers, as you can see, she is a beauty.

In times gone by, it was thought to have an affinity with the liver, hence its common name, liverwort, and the botanical name Hepatica also reflects this. The leaves and flowers were traditionally used for wound healing and liver issues. It is considered to have astringent properties.

Some websites and books say it is generally safe for adults internally and topically, while others say not to consume it. I would not use this personally or professionally as I feel there are many safer and better herbs to use. Examples include dandelion and milk thistle for the liver.