Hedge Woundwort.
This gorgeous loud and proud member of the mint family is highly regarded in the world of herbalism. It has a long history of being an essential part of the first aid kit and is used in particular for……you guessed it, wounds. The famous 17th century herbalist John Gerard was very impressed with its powers and used it extensively. It’s also know for having antispasmodic and sedative properties when taken internally.
It has a very bitter taste when raw but when cooked it becomes pleasant. At this time of year I like to nibble on the flowers when we cross paths.
You will find it growing on woodland edges and edges of meadows.
Scientific name: Stachys sylvatica
Happy foraging!!