Wild Geranium (Geranium spp.) aka "Cranesbill" is blooming in the garden now, lighting up edges with its pretty pink flowers.

The root (called Alum root) contains astringent tannins and is used both internally and externally for the treatment of dysentery, diarrhea, colitis, mouth and throat infections, wounds, and hemorrhages.

In "Common Herbs for Natural Health", Juliette de Bairacli Levy says, "...as an astringent it has few equals... ".

Wild Geranium's leaves are also astringent and make a wonderfully stimulating facial toner. You'll love its uplifting aroma (which is said to also be aphrodisiac). Just infuse about 1/2 oz. of leaves in cider vinegar for 1 to 2 weeks, then strain. Dilute by half with water or hydrosol to use.