Boneset, Dried
(also referred to as...)
Feverwort, Thoroughwort, Sweatplant, Indian Sage
Latin Name: Eupatorium perfoliatum
Family: Compositae
Description
Boneset is a tall, hardy perennial up to 1.5m high and 30-100cm wide. It has large, flat-topped, white or purple tinged flowers and blooms in late Summer. This plant is native to Eurasia and the Eastern United States. It is also found in swamps, meadows, and banks in eastern Canada. Prefers moist soil in sun or partial shade.
A very popular plant with North American Indians, boneset was introduced into Europe in 1699 and was used as a stimulating tonic and antispasmodic diaphoretic. Primary uses were to treat influenza epidemics and febrile conditions. In the 19th century, boneset was the household remedy in North America for coughs and colds.
In folk medicine and according to the doctrine of signatures: the leaves appear to be holding the stem-"bone set". The name Boneset was given to it, as it was used to treat a type of liver fever called "break bone fever".
The whole plant above the ground is cut when buds have formed and dried for use in infusions, liquid extracts, and tinctures.
Ailments / Situations Where Used
A warm infusion of Boneset is excellent for colds, fevers, and asthma, as it will induce an effective sweat for congestion relief. It is said to be a pure relaxant, working chiefly on the muscular structures, gall ducts, stomach, bowels, and uterus.
A cold infusion is a good tonic and a mild blood cleanser. It strengthens the viscera and works well for indigestion. Boneset promotes the secretion of bile and produces a mild laxative effect. It clears the skin by helping to detoxify the liver. Boneset can also be used to clear the upper respiratory tract in mucous congestion.
Recent research indicates that several lactones in the plant may have anti-cancer activity.
In homeopathy, this herb has indications for bone pains and post fracture pain.
Source
Leaves and flower tops.
Preparations
Infusion: Pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 teaspoon of herb and infuse for 10 to 15 minutes. For chronic conditions, take 3 times daily. For colds and influenza, take warm every 30 minutes.
Tincture: Take 20 to 40 drops, three times daily.
Combinations: For fever or influenza, combine with cayenne, elderflower, ginger, peppermint, or yarrow. For respiratory problems, combine with elecampane or pleurisy root.
Contraindications / Precautions / Warnings
Large doses of the warm infusion will cause vomiting and diarrhea.
Do not use fresh (green) plant as it contains high amounts of tremetrols. If a nursing animal ingests fresh boneset, the tremetrols can be passed to the milk and become toxic to the drinker. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and thirst. Additional problems include low blood sugar levels and liver and kidney damage.
Ailment / Situation Listing
All information contained on this website is for reference purposes only and all content should be treated as a resource. It is highly recommended that you consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner when undertaking self-treatment. For serious conditions, always seek the advice of your naturopath or other health practitioner. People taking medication should
consult with their naturopath or other health practitioner before undertaking additional regime for their ailment.
Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and consistency of the information contained on this website. However, errors in copy may occur. You are advised to consult with your naturopath or other health practitioner
when applying the information contained on this website.
The MBR Team is not responsible or liable for any personal injury or related effects from applying the information contained on this website.
By browsing / printing any and all My Best Remedies articles / pages, you agree to the statements above.
