Botanical Overview
Wild Strawberry (Fragaria vesca) is a flowering plant in the Rosaceae family. Traditional medicine systems have documented several valuable applications for this species, supported by its observed therapeutic effects. The rose family (Rosaceae) includes trees, shrubs, and herbs with five-petaled flowers and numerous stamens. Many species produce edible fruits such as apples, pears, cherries, and berries. The family includes both ornamental roses and many species with astringent and medicinal properties.
General Description
The Latin specific epithet vesca literally means “thin” or “feeble”, but likely carries the sense “edible” in this context (compare vescor, “to eat”).
Family Context
The Rosaceae family is widely distributed in temperate regions. Notable medicinal members include:
- Peach — 51 documented uses
- Apricot — 37 documented uses
- Almond — 34 documented uses
- Greater Burnet — 29 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Wild Strawberry has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Finland, France, and others.
Traditional Uses
Wild Strawberry has been traditionally used for digestive health, urinary tract health, and cardiovascular health, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Diarrhea
- Laxative
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Urinary tract health.
- Diuretic
- Bladder
- Gravel
Urinary tract applications typically involve drinking the herb as a mild tea, which increases urine production and helps flush the urinary system. It may be combined with other demulcent herbs to soothe irritated tissues.
Cardiovascular health.
- Blood
- Hypertension
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 1 compound in this species: pelargonidin-3-glucoside.
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage