Primrose

primula vulgaris (HUDS)
N.O.Primulaceae
herba paralysis, an early name shared with the cowslip.

This plant grows wild in Great Britain but is rarely to be seen even in the gardens of North America.
A cultivar is often to be found in florists around Easter.
From the Latin name prima rosa, meaning the first rose of the year.
Leaves are also the diet of silkworms.

Roots used medicinally are dug after two or three years of growth.
The roots must be cleansed in cold water with a brush, and the fibres trimmed off.
The roots are then dried, and larger roots are split to facilitate the drying process.

saponins
volatile oil, (roots and flowers contain a fragrant oil, called Primulin)
Primulin is identical with Mannite.

expectorant in bronchitis
anti-spasmodic
diuretic
anodyne
vermifuge
emetic
mild sedative for anxiety or insomnia
formerly used topically for skin wounds and blemishes.
Candied flowers
boil leaves as greens
Primrose Tea