Agrimony: What It Does and How to Use It Safely

Ever heard of agrimony? It's a small flowering herb used for centuries in folk medicine. People reach for agrimony for mild digestive issues, sore throats, skin wounds, and as a gentle tonic. This page gives clear, practical info: common uses, how to make tea or take a supplement, and safety tips so you can decide if it fits your routine.

Common uses and what the herb may help with

Agrimony is mainly known as an astringent — that means it can help tighten tissues and reduce minor bleeding or irritation. People use it for loose stools or mild diarrhea, sore throat gargles, and to help small skin cuts heal faster. Some also use agrimony tea to calm mild digestive upset or to add to a herbal mix for general wellness.

Modern research is limited but promising in small studies and lab tests. Those studies suggest agrimony has antioxidant and mild anti-inflammatory effects. That doesn’t mean it treats serious disease, but it can be useful for short-term, mild complaints or as a daily herbal supplement for general support.

How to use agrimony: tea, tincture, and capsules

Tea — the most common form. Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried agrimony per cup of hot water. Steep 10–15 minutes, strain, and drink up to 2–3 cups a day. Let it cool a bit before using as a gargle for a sore throat or a rinse for minor skin problems.

Tincture — handy when you need a concentrated dose. Typical tincture doses range from 20–40 drops (about 1–2 ml) taken two to three times daily. Follow the product label or ask a herbalist for specifics.

Capsules and extracts — often standardized. Common capsule doses are 300–500 mg once or twice daily. Check the label for extract strength so you know what you’re taking.

Tip: start with the lower dose to see how your body reacts, and keep a short diary of effects if you try it for digestion or skin issues.

Safety and interactions — what to watch for

Agrimony is generally well tolerated in short-term use. Still, avoid it if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding unless your healthcare provider okays it. If you take blood thinners, have a bleeding disorder, or are preparing for surgery, talk to your doctor first. Because agrimony contains tannins, it can interfere with iron absorption — don’t take it close to iron supplements or iron-rich meals.

Buy smart: choose reputable brands, look for organic or tested products, and avoid mixes that don’t list ingredient amounts. If you have chronic liver or kidney disease, check with your clinician before adding any herb.

Want to try agrimony? Start small, watch how you feel, and ask a healthcare pro if you’re on regular meds. It’s a simple herb with practical uses, but like any supplement, it works best when used thoughtfully.