Herb Robert

Herb Robert (Geranium Robertianum) sometimes known as ‘Stinky Bob’ or Bloodwort, is an annual wild geranium which flowers from May up until October. It has a small, dainty pink flower and the whole plant has quite a strong distinctive smell which some people find a bit unpleasant. I must say, I don’t get that myself. It has a smell, sure, but trust me, there are much worse smelling plants out there. Apparently, it was named after a French monk who lived around 1000 AD called Robert of Molene, who is reputed to have had legendary medical skills and is said to have cured a great many people suffering from various diseases with the plant.

- Used extensively in Asia to treat malaria, jaundice and kidney infections.

- Herb Robert is astringent, antibiotic, anti-diabetes, anti-diarrhoea, anti-depressant, anti-aging and boosts the immune system.

- It’s an adaptogen, meaning it promotes normal physiological function under stressful conditions, whether the source of stress is physical, emotional or environmental.

- It is renowned and widely used in Portugal, today, as the most effective herbal remedy for (and prevention of….) cancer due to its ability to oxygenate the blood. It also contains ellagic acid which has been shown in lab studies to slow the growth of tumors.

- Improves liver and gall bladder function and prevents stones from forming in the kidneys, bladder and gall bladder. It also reduces swelling of the kidneys and bladder.

- Full of anti-oxidant vitamins A, B, C and minerals such as iron, sodium, phosphorus, manganese as well as the ‘wonder’ trace mineral geranium.

- A foot bath of the herb is said to rid the body of heavy metals and radiation accumulated throughout the body.