Discover the Many Benefits of the Oxeye Daisy

The oxeye daisy (Leucanthemum Vulgare) is a familiar sight in fields and roadsides in many areas of the country. They are an attractive, short lived, hardy perennial herb with white petals and a yellow center often found growing in grassy places. Often times, it is considered very invasive in many areas of the United States.

The oxeye daisy is an overlooked herbal powerhouse from the Asteraceae/Compositae genus family. It has many common names such as dog daisy, moon daisy, or bruise wort.

The oxeye daisy has been used traditional and native American medicine for a variety of purposes, including treating wounds, coughs, and fevers.

The entire plant has antispasmodic, relieves involuntary muscle spasms, making it great to ease sore muscles after a day of walking. The leaves, flowers, and roots have been traditionally used in poultice or lotion to treat bruises, pain, swelling, ulcers, and other wounds.

The entire plant including the stems hold humectant properties, making this herb hydrating, able to soothe irritation, and restore the skin barrier. For this reason, it is thought to be very helpful to those suffering from skin issues like acne, dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis.

Hydrosol water from the oxeye daisy flower can be used to ease the symptoms of conjunctivitis and other eye infections.

An infusion (tea) of oxeye daisy flowers can relieve chronic coughs (asthma, whooping cough, bronchitis) and reduce fever. It can even be used as a tonic similar to chamomile flowers to treat stomach ulcers, muscle spasms, and fluid retention.

The whole plant is edible and generally considered safe for children. Fresh young leaves (older leaves can be bitter) and shoots are a fantastic addition to a springtime salad. The flower capers are quite delicious seasoned and lightly fried in extra virgin olive oil.

After learning so much about this incredible herb, are you interested in trying a few herbal preparations?  Our store features several, including are best selling Oopsie Daisy Boo Boo Balm which is a must have for a mother on the go or someone who bruises easily.