FRAGARIA VESCA
STRAWBERRY LEAF
While the succulent fruit of the strawberry plant garners most of the attention, its leaves, primarily from the species Fragaria vesca, have carved out their own niche in herbal medicine and skincare traditions. Native to the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, strawberries and their leaves have a rich history that intermingles with ancient Roman, Greek, and Native American cultures. Historically, these cultures utilized strawberry leaves for their therapeutic properties, brewing them into teas or using them in poultices. Holistically, strawberry leaves are linked with purity and rejuvenation, reflecting their inherent cleansing properties. Rich in tannins, vitamin C, and flavonoids, strawberry leaves possess astringent, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This makes them effective in tightening the skin, reducing pore size, and combatting free radicals that contribute to aging. The anti-inflammatory nature of the leaves aids in soothing skin irritations. For health, strawberry leaf tea has been traditionally consumed to aid digestion, alleviate arthritic pain, and as a diuretic. Modern skincare formulations, recognizing the benefits of these leaves, incorporate strawberry leaf extracts in products ranging from facial masks to toners, continuing the age-old appreciation of this lesser-known aspect of the strawberry plant.