Common heather (Calluna vulgaris)

Harm score: 1 (Natural substances)

Common heather, also known as portcullis, common heather or Ma chi Xian, is an evergreen plant that is typical of much of Europe. This unpretentious plant is distinguished by its colourful flowers, which can be various shades of pink and purple. It can often be seen in protected areas where it forms so-called heaths and clumps. Its inflorescence is widely used in folk medicine because of its many medicinal properties. Overall, heather is an excellent plant that can be used in the production of many products.

The importance of the common heather is wide. Its inflorescence is commonly used in folk medicine to make teas, tinctures or ointments for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects, and it is also a diuretic. The inflorescence secretion is also used to treat skin diseases. Heather is also used extensively in the cosmetics industry, especially in lotions, creams and masks. In addition, it can be used in the food industry - for example, natural water made from heather flowers is known to help detoxify the body. Finally, thanks to its beautiful flowers, heather is a popular plant in flower arranging and floristry.