Greater Burnet (Sanguisorba officinalis) — what it does and how to use it

You might spot greater burnet as a clump of feathery leaves and thin flower spikes in meadows. People have used it for centuries to stop bleeding, calm gut issues, and soothe skin. Today you can find it as dried herb, tea, tincture, capsule, or topical poultice. Below are clear, practical ways to use it, plus safety tips so you don’t guess your dose.

Common uses and what the research says

Traditional use: in Europe and Asia greater burnet has been a go-to for bleeding, diarrhea, and minor wounds. In Traditional Chinese Medicine the root (often called Sanguisorbae radix) is used to reduce bleeding and inflammation.

Modern lab work: several laboratory studies (2010–2018) found that extracts show antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. That supports traditional uses for wounds and irritated gut. Keep in mind most human trials are limited, so think of it as a supportive herb rather than a replacement for medical care.

Topical use: crushed leaves or a poultice can help minor cuts, grazes, or insect bites. People report faster scab formation and less oozing when used correctly.

How to prepare and dose it (simple, everyday methods)

Tea (digestive support): use 1–2 teaspoons of dried herb per cup of hot water. Steep 10 minutes, strain, and drink up to 2 cups daily. This gives a gentle astringent effect that can ease loose stools.

Tincture (quicker action): a common herbal tincture dose is 20–40 drops (about 1–2 ml) up to three times a day. Follow the label on commercial products; strengths vary.

Capsules: follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typical supplements aim to match traditional doses but read labels closely and start low.

Topical poultice: bruise fresh leaves or wet dried herb, apply directly to clean skin, cover with a dressing for short-term use. Stop if irritation or rash appears.

Where to buy: look for reputable herb shops, trusted online herbal stores, or pharmacies that sell standardized extracts. Check that packaging lists the botanical name Sanguisorba officinalis to avoid mix-ups.

Safety notes: avoid using greater burnet if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding without talking to a healthcare pro. Because it’s astringent, it can worsen constipation for some people. If you’re on blood-thinning medication or have clotting issues, check with your doctor first — the herb affects bleeding and healing in ways that could matter with other treatments.

Final practical tip: try a short test (tea or small tincture dose) for a week to see how you react. If you see clear benefit and no side effects, you can use it as a supportive herb for minor issues. If symptoms are serious or don’t improve, see a clinician.