The whole herb possesses a pleasant taste and flavour, the green parts having a similar aromatic character to the flowers, leading to the use of the plant as a strewing herb, strewn on floors to give the rooms a pleasant aroma, and its use to flavour wine, beer, and many vinegars. The flowers can be added to stewed fruit and jams, giving them a subtle almond flavor. It has many medicinal properties. The whole plant is a traditional remedy for an acidic stomach, and the fresh root is often used in infinitesimal quantities in homeopathic preparations. It is effective on its own as a treatment for diarrhea. The flowers, when made into a tea, are a comfort to flu sufferers. Dried, the flowers make lovely pot pourri.

An herbal answer to aspirin that will not upset the stomach. An infusion made by steeping two teaspoons of dried leaves in a cup of water for 15 minutes can relieve discomfort due to fever, respiratory problems and arthritis. This infusion should not be given to children. The plant has very fragrant leaves that make a delicious herbal tea that is good for headaches. A hardy perennial that grows 4-6 feet tall. Best suited for zones 3-8.