Bluebell (Hyacinthoides non-scripta)
Other names: Hyacinthus nonscriptus, Endymion non-scriptus, Scilla non-scripta, Scilla nutans, common bluebell, culverkeys, calverkeys, wild hyacinth, wood bells, old man’s bells, Jacinth, Agraphis nutans, auld man’s bells, dead man’s bells, faerie thimbles.
Not to be confused with harebell, Campanula rotundifolia, which is also sometimes called “bluebell”.
Photo courtesy Wikimedia Commons/Dominicus Johannes Bergsma
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Family: Asparagaceae
Actions:
Styptic, diuretic, demulcent, adhesive.
Harvest: Bulbs would be dug up in autumn.
Part used: Dried powdered bulbs.
Constituents:
Inulin, mucilage, water-soluble alkaloids and others.
Indications:
Bleeding wounds, moist conditions.
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Dominicus Johannes Bergsma
Medicinal preparations:
*I don’t recommend it. Bluebell was used more often medicinally in the past, before it became less popular due to its toxicity.
Internal
Do not take internally.
External
Historically, the powdered, dried bulb matter was used as a styptic to stop bleeding.
Contraindications:
I suggest not using bluebell medicinally, due to the risk of toxicity from the bulb. The juices from the bulb can cause gastric distress as well as contact dermatitis.
I suggest consulting a pharmacist or physician before starting any herbal supplement if you are taking a prescription medication or have serious underlying health concerns.
Energetic/traditional use:
The juices from the bulb were once used as glue, and a substitute for laundry starch.
It is associated with old-growth forests (where it flourishes), and Fae folk. It was
Photo courtesy of Wikimedia Commons/Dominicus Johannes Bergsma
rumoured that anyone (especially children) who picked a bluebell in the woods, would be taken by the Fae (or changed…) For this reason they were sometimes called “dead man’s bells.”
Wearing a necklace of bluebells was said to cause the wearer to speak only truth. They are also a symbol of gratitude and humility.
Bluebell has a dry constitution.
Disclaimer: The information on this website is intended as general education on herbs and is not intended to take the place of medical care. Please consult a health care professional before embarking on any health regime.
