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Sheep sorrel has antioxidant, diuretic, detoxifying, laxative, astringent, and diaphoretic properties. The herb is a rich source of vitamins and minerals. Vitamins B-complex, C, D, E, K, and P are included in sheep sorrel. It contains sodium, calcium, sulfur, iron, magnesium, chlorine, silicon, copper, iodine, manganese, zinc, and beta carotene. The silicon in sheep sorrel may help the nervous system. Other constituents of sheep sorrel are malic, oxalic, tannic, and tartaric acids; chlorophyll; rutins; polysaccharides; protein; and carotenoids. Sheep sorrel is considered a common weed in the United States. Its slim, reddish stems grow to a height of 4-24 in (10-60 cm). Narrow, arrow-shaped leaves that have a pungent lemon scent grow to 1-4 in (2-10 cm) long. The slender roots grow to a depth of 5 feet (1.5 m). Near the upper part of the stem are small, yellow or red flowers that bloom in the spring and summer, generally from April to September. The male plant has yellow flowers while the female plant has red flowers. Sheep Sorrel is one of the main ingredients in Essiac Tea.
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