|
 Asclepias tuberosa
(Asclepiadaceae)
PLEURISY ROOT, CANADA ROOT, COLIC ROOT
Dried pleurisy root is given by
herbalists for ailments such as bronchitis, pleurisy, and flu.
One of the most successful North American Indian remedies, it was used by the Indians as a food,
as a medicine, and in special ceremonies. When American doctors
discovered it, they named it after the Greek god of medicine, Asklepios, because of its power to save lives. Indigenous to North America,
it is a perennial with spear-like
leaves and yellow flowers in summer.
PARTS USED
Dried root.
ACTIVE INGREDIENTS
Glycosides, including ascelpiadin; flavonoids, including rutin, kaempferol, and quercitin; amino acids.
ACTIONS
Expectorant; induces sweating; reduces muscle tension and spasm; relieves wind and colic.
MEDICINAL USE
Given for respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, pneumonia, pleurisy and flu, where it eases pain and breathing.
PREPARATIONS
Infusion, tincture.
CAUTION
Excess can cause vomiting and diarrhoea, use with care.
|
