Lamb's ear (Stachys byzantina) has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal properties. It has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and wound healing properties. Lamb's ear is also known as woolly woundwort, woolly hedgenettle, and woolly betony. It's a low-maintenance plant that's drought-tolerant and frost-tolerant. Lamb's ear is safe for humans and pets. It's also non-toxic, so it's a good choice for family gardens.
Medicinal uses
- Wound healing
Lamb's ear leaves can be used as a natural bandage to treat cuts and bee stings - Skin conditions
Lamb's ear leaves may help relieve inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis - Infections
Infusions of dried lamb's ear leaves may help with colds, gum and throat infections, and asthma - Eye problems
Leaves simmered and cooled can be used as eyewash - Food
Young leaves can be eaten in salads, steamed, or battered - Gardening
Lamb's ear can be used as a ground cover, to suppress weeds, and to protect soil from erosion - Environmental
Lamb's ear is a pollinator plant that attracts bees - Crafts
Lamb's ear leaves can be used for compost, toilet paper, and absorbent pad