Origin and history
The mouse-ear hawkweed, also known as hawkweed, is a small herbaceous plant known since the Middle Ages for its diuretic and purifying properties. Its name comes from the Latin pilus, meaning "hair," in reference to the downy appearance of its leaves. According to popular legend, falcons (hawks) consumed its sap to improve their eyesight, hence its common name "hawkweed." Traditionally, it was used to drain the body, purify the kidneys, and promote water elimination.