Parnassia palustris

Parnassia palustris

Plant Family

Celastraceae

Botanical Description

Grass of Parnassus is a perennial herb growing 10-30 cm tall with heart-shaped basal leaves on long stalks. Single white flowers with delicate green-veined petals and distinctive staminodes appear on leafless stems. Despite its name, it is not a grass.

Cautions

Limited safety data available. Use with caution and in small amounts. Not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Habitat

Wet meadows, bogs, fens, stream banks, and other wet areas.

Harvest Instructions

Whole plant harvested during flowering. Use sparingly as populations can be sensitive.

Geographic Distribution

Circumpolar distribution in northern regions including Iceland, Scandinavia, and northern North America.

Growth Conditions

Requires constantly moist to wet, alkaline soil. Full sun to partial shade.

Plant Size

10-30 cm

Pests & Diseases

Generally pest free.

Effects on the Body

Traditional heart tonic, supports liver function, calming effect, aids digestion. Limited modern research available.

Active Constituents

Flavonoids, phenolic compounds. Limited phytochemical research.

Safety Information

Dosage

Tea: 1 teaspoon dried herb in boiling water, steep 10 minutes. Use sparingly. Traditional use only.

Culinary Use

Not used culinarily.

Folklore & Historical Use

Named after Mount Parnassus in Greece. Used in traditional European and Nordic folk medicine for heart and liver complaints.

Scientific Research

Very limited clinical research available. Traditional use in folk medicine for eye complaints and as a mild sedative. Contains flavonoids and tannins.