In traditional medicine the species of this plant is considered alterative, astringent, carminative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emmenagogue, tonic and vulnerary. It is harvested in July and can be dried for later use. The herb is often used in domestic herbal practice in the treatment of skin afflictions, diseases of the blood, fevers, colds etc. It is an appetizer of the first order and is equal to gentian root as a tonic.

Grieve, Mrs M. (1931). A Modern Herbal, Penguin. Leyel, Mrs CF p.351