Botanical atlas
Great Burnet
Sanguisorba officinalis
Great burnet has been treasured for centuries as one of the great wound herbs, prized above all for its reputation as an astringent that calms bleeding. In traditional Chinese medicine, the dried root, known as di yu, has been used for generations to cool the blood, settle dysentery, and ease bleeding hemorrhoids. European folk healers reached for the same astringent root and leaves to dress wounds, calm burns, and soothe an unsettled stomach. Its deep wine-red flower spikes also made it a familiar, well-loved sight along old hedgerows and cottage garden beds, admired as much for its looks as for its medicine.
In tradition.
Great burnet has been treasured for centuries as one of the great wound herbs, prized above all for its reputation as an astringent that calms bleeding. In traditional Chinese medicine, the dried root, known as di yu, has been used for generations to cool the blood, settle dysentery, and ease bleeding hemorrhoids. European folk healers reached for the same astringent root and leaves to dress wounds, calm burns, and soothe an unsettled stomach. Its deep wine-red flower spikes also made it a familiar, well-loved sight along old hedgerows and cottage garden beds, admired as much for its looks as for its medicine.
Traditional preparations.
A traditional astringent decoction, historically reached for to settle an occasional upset stomach.
Simmer 1 teaspoon of dried, chopped root in 250 ml of water for about 15 minutes, then strain and sip slowly.
A gentler, everyday infusion traditionally used as a soothing tonic tea.
Steep 1 teaspoon of dried leaf in 250 ml of just-boiled water for 10 minutes, then strain.
Safety.
Great burnet is generally safe as an occasional tea, but its blood-stanching action means anyone on blood-thinning medication or with a clotting disorder should be cautious. Its tannins can upset the stomach or reduce mineral absorption if used heavily, and it isn't recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Our sister app HerbLens identifies great burnet from a photo and keeps its full botanical portrait: growing guide, harvest notes, and look-alike warnings.
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Ask about Great BurnetHerbSense shares traditional herbal knowledge for education, not diagnosis or treatment. Herbs can interact with medicines and conditions. Speak with your doctor before acting on anything here, and seek care promptly for anything severe, sudden, or worsening.