Masterwort (Astrantia)

Good day dear Hive Community, first of all I wish you a good day and hope you had a fabulous weekend and a great start to the new week! Today I would like to present you a new plant and hope you can expand your knowledge a little.

When I made a small trip into nature a few days ago and in a forest I discovered this plant which is known as Masterwort and is also scientifically called Astrantia. The appearance of the flower looks somewhat like stars and the name is derived from the Greek word Aster for star and anthos for flower. Originally, Masterwort comes from Europe and is typically found in forests, embankments or meadows and is also insect-friendly and offers a good source of food for a variety of insects from about June.

Since it grows in the wild form in rather shady areas, if you play with the idea of cultivating in the garden, you should plant in a shady or semi-shaded place and pay attention to a moist soil. In itself, this perennial plant is relatively easy to care for and does not make any special demands when it comes to care but, during the drier phases you should pay attention to regular watering. Masterword can be easily multiplied and as soon as the seed capsules are ripe towards the end of summer, the seeds can be easily removed.

Masterword can also be found in mythology and according to an old legend, the plant was created from stars that have fallen to the ground. I was able to find another legend that says that you could communicate with higher beings with the help of this plant. From a symbolic point of view, it is often associated with positive manifestations as well as inner strength and protection. It also connected with the Zodiac Sign Taurus and was also used as a medicinal plant, but is rather rarer. As a medicinal plant, it is used against diseases of the respiratory tract or for general wound healing or the stabilization of the immune system.

From a medical point of view, it contains some active ingredients such as flavonoids or rosmarinic acid, which can help against viruses and bacteria. However, it is important to know that the Masterword, like many other medicinal plants, have something in common and are slightly poisonous and are only effective in the right use. The slightly toxic properties of the plant can be attributed to intolerances of certain active ingredients. As always, it is very important to recognize that you should always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the correct use, dosage and possible side effects in order to avoid possible complications!

Thanks a lot for stopping by and the interest in my post, I captured these pictures with my Camera Sony Alpha 6000 plus 55-210 mm lens!