|
 Boneset, also know as agueweed, crosswort, feverwort,
indian sage, teasel, and thoroughwort, is part of the Echinacea and
daisy (Asteraceae) botanical family. It mainly grows in temperate
regions of North America. The leaves and flowering tops of Boneset
are the parts of the plant that are used medicinally. Boneset is
used primarily as a homeopathic remedy, where it is recommended for
fevers, flu, digestive problems, and liver disorders. Further
clinical studies are required in order confirm it
effectiveness.
Medical Indications and
Benefits
Many people believe that boneset is one of
the best herbal remedies for relieving symptoms associated with
influenza. It speedily relieves aches and pains as well as assisting
the body's ability to cope with fever. Boneset may be used to help
clear mucus congestion from the upper respiratory tract. Its mild
aperient activity may also be effective at relieving constipation.
It may ease the symptoms of muscular rheumatism treatment. Test tube
studies have also indicated taht boneset can stimulate immune cell
function.
Dosage and
Administration
Boneset has been traditionally taken
as a tea or tincture. To prepare the tea, add boiling water to
1/4-1/2 teaspoon (1-2 grams) of the herb. Allow it to steep covered
for ten to fifteen minutes. Three cups (750 ml) a day may be taken
(the tea is fairly bitter). Tincture, 1/4-3/4 teaspoon (1-4 ml)
three times daily, is also taken often.
Common Side
Effects and Interactions
A small minority experience
nausea and/or vomiting when using boneset. However, the fresh plant
is more likely to cause these conditions than the dried herb.
Although pyrrolizidine alkaloids, potentially liver-damaging
chemicals, are found in some similar plants the levels in boneset
are minimal. No known findings of liver damage from taking boneset
have been reported. Regardless, liver-diseased individuals should
avoid boneset, and no one should take it consistently for six months
or longer. Women who are breast-feeding should not take boneset. Do
not use boneset when a high fever (over 102 degrees F) is
present.
Supporting
Literature
Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The
Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. New York: Viking Arkana, 1991.
Woerdenbag HJ, Bos R, Hendriks H. Eupatorium perfoliatum L—the
boneset. Z Phytother 1992;13:134–139.
|
