Ash
Latin name:
Fraxinus excelsior L.
Common names:
Common ash, Large ash
Family:
Oleaceae
Origin:
Europe (Scandinavia, Russia)
Part of the plant used:
Leaf
Description
Ash is widespread in cool woods and along river banks throughout Europe. The ash leaf is consumed as a decoction in the French countryside in the form of a refreshing fermented drink, or ash cider. Its use was recommended to purge the body of its water. Ash leaves contain ursolic acid, mineral salts (potassium) and mannitol (a sugar-alcohol that is likely to be the source of the plant's properties).
The benefits
- Diuretic and depurative properties: by promoting renal elimination, ash helps fight against water retention and facilitates weight loss;
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
