Herbs Guide

Bear's Garlic

Family Name: Alliaceae

Botanical Name(s): Allium ursinum

Popular Name(s): Ransoms, Ramsons

Parts Used: The complete plant

Habitat: Bear's Garlic is found in Europe and W. Asia.

Description: Bear's garlic is a perennial plant which grows in moist woods and shady places. Its onion-like root sends a somewhat angular 6 to 16 inches long stem and sprouts two large, petioled, shiny, lanceolate leaves. Its hermaphrodite flowers are pure white in colour.

Uses: Bear's garlic has astringent and expectorant properties. It is used to cure gastrointestinal catarrh, bronchitis and arteriosclerosis.