Soapwort

Also known as Bouncing Bet, Bruisewort, Farewell Summer, Fuller's Herb, Joe Run by the Street, Hedge Pink, Dog's Clove, Old Maid's Pink and Soaproot.

From the family Caryophyllaceae.

Medieval Arab physicians for various skin complaints, such as eczema, acne and those caused by venereal diseases used soapwort. Widespread on poor soils in Europe, Asia and Northern America. It yields a soapy sap, which is excellent for revitalizing precious fabrics, and is now used in museums for this purpose. Fullers used it for soaping cloth before it went on the stamps at the mill, and sheep were washed with a mixture of the leaves, roots and water before being shorn. It also exudes the most delicious raspberry sorbet scent with a hint of clove. It is still used by museum conservators to lift surface dirt gently from fragile antique textiles and paintings.

Pick the leaves when required. Dig up the roots in the autumn and dry for medicinal use.

Use the leaf, stem and root, just cover in rain or soft water (not tap water) and boil for 30 minutes, then use the soapy liquid to wash and miraculously revive delicate old natural fibres, fabrics and upholstery. Perfume a room with bouquets of soapwort. Infuse the leaves and add to bath water to treat dry, itchy skin.