Small Willow Herb

Ameen Foods Dried Small Willow Herb (Epilobium parviflorum) is a delicate, naturally dried botanical known for its subtle, earthy aroma and gentle herbal qualities. Often found in wetlands and along riverbanks, this perennial plant features small pinkish-purple blossoms that bloom during summer.

Small Willow Herb is the cut and dried herb of the plant, sold for brewing. It is also called small-flowered willowherb or hoary willowherb, and it should not be confused with the taller rosebay willowherb, which is a different plant. The aroma is gentle and grassy, and the brewed cup is light, faintly earthy and mildly astringent, with a dry finish like a mild green leaf infusion.

Traditionally, willow herb has been used in herbal teas, tinctures, and infusions, where it offers a slightly astringent, mildly bitter flavor. It has long been featured in traditional herbal collections passed down through folk practice.

While small willow herb has a long history in folk herbalism, its effects have not been extensively studied, so it should be used with care and awareness.

How to use it

Steep a little of the cut herb in just-boiled water with the cup covered, then strain. It can be brewed on its own or blended with milder herbs such as chamomile, lemon balm or mint, and it takes a slice of lemon or a little honey well. Technique tip: strain it through a fine mesh, since the cut leaf is light and fragments easily.

Botanical Name: Epilobium parviflorum
Also known as: Small-flowered Willowherb, Smallflower Willow Herb, Hoary Willowherb, Epilobium.