Lady's Mantle

botanical
Take on an empty stomach

What is it

Lady's mantle (Alchemilla vulgaris) is a perennial herb in the rose family. The aerial parts have been used traditionally in European herbal medicine for gynecological complaints, diarrhea, and as a wound-healing astringent.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Diarrhea (astringent effect)

Limited

Tannin-rich herbs like lady's mantle have a long traditional basis for astringent effects on mild diarrhea. Clinical trials specifically on Alchemilla are limited.

Menstrual / gynecological support

Mixed

Traditional use is well-established but lacks rigorous clinical confirmation.

How it works

Lady's mantle contains tannins (5-10%), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol glycosides), phenolic acids, and triterpenes. The high tannin content gives it astringent properties, which contribute to its traditional uses for diarrhea, mucous membrane inflammation, and topical wound care. The phytoestrogenic potential of some flavonoids may underlie traditional gynecological uses (heavy menstruation, menstrual cramps), though clinical evidence is limited. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects have been demonstrated in preclinical studies.

Dosage

Traditional doses: 2-4 g of dried herb as infusion three times daily; tincture (1:5) 2-4 mL three times daily. Topical compresses are also used.

When and how to take it

WHEN: Traditionally taken before or between meals. Use intermittently rather than continuously for menstrual complaints (e.g., during periods only). HOW: As tea, tincture, or capsule.

3 commercial forms

Dried herb

Tannins extracted in water

Used as tea or compress.

Tincture

Concentrated liquid extract

Alcohol-based.

Topical preparations

Astringent topical use

For wound care and skin conditions.

Safety

Generally well tolerated. High tannin content may cause GI upset, constipation, or nausea in some users. Long-term high-dose use may impair iron absorption due to tannin binding.

Who should be cautious

Avoid in pregnancy and lactation (insufficient data, possible uterine effects). Caution in iron deficiency anemia. Avoid long-term continuous use due to tannin content.

Interactions

Tannins may reduce absorption of iron, alkaloids, and some medications taken simultaneously; separate dosing by 2 hours.

Frequently asked questions

Does lady's mantle help with heavy periods?⌄

Traditional use supports this application, but modern clinical evidence is lacking. If you have unexplained heavy menstrual bleeding, see a clinician for evaluation.

Can I take lady's mantle long-term?⌄

Continuous long-term use is not recommended due to tannin content. Use intermittently as needed.

References

  • Lady's Mantle on Wikidata — Wikidata link
  • Lady's Mantle on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link
  • Research on Lady's Mantle (PubMed search) — PubMed link

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.