Eupatorium perfoliatum | Family: Asteraceae
Having grown and utilized Boneset for numerous years, I highly recommend it as a must-have remedy for the flu season. Its efficacy in alleviating body aches caused by viruses, especially those accompanied by neurological disturbances, is truly remarkable. I’ve found it particularly beneficial during times of uncertainty regarding the underlying cause of body aches, as Boneset consistently provides significant relief.
What sets Boneset apart is its fast-acting nature, even at low doses. When faced with intense pain in the skeletal or muscular system, or experiencing temporary paralysis due to neurological effects, Boneset proves to be a reliable and effective solution. Its ability to swiftly address such symptoms makes it an invaluable addition to any herbal medicine cabinet, especially during flu season.
This plant is a low-dose herb, do not exceed the recommended dose, the importance of moderation and informed usage.
During the creation of Boneset Flower Essence, I gained profound insights from the plant itself. It taught me about its remarkable ability to clear obstructions and offer clarity, serving as a guiding light in times of uncertainty. Boneset acts as a protective shield, fortifying and bolstering resilience and endurance.
Furthermore, it enhances the function of the nervous system and promotes optimal oxygenation, fostering a sense of balance and harmony within the body. In moments of illness and adversity, Boneset provides solace and relaxation, instilling a deep sense of reassurance.
One of its most profound effects is its ability to address chronic immune depletion and autoimmune issues by targeting emotional heart wounds. By facilitating deep relaxation and alignment with life, Boneset becomes an essential ally in the journey towards healing.
Vital for the vitality of kidney, bladder, and spleen energy pathways, Boneset realigns and heals emotional wounds, fostering inner strength and stability. Particularly beneficial for navigating transitions between environments, Boneset nurtures inner resilience and stability, guiding them with gentle strength through life’s challenges.
Boneset was revered by Native North American tribes and serves as a potent bone-healing remedy steeped in centuries of traditional wisdom. Its name, originating from Algonquin language, reflects its profound association with bone health and restoration. Among the indigenous peoples of North America, Boneset held a revered status for its multifaceted therapeutic properties. The Menominees utilized it to mitigate fevers, while the Iroquois, Mohegans, Alabamas, and Creeks employed it for various ailments ranging from colds and body pain to digestive issues.
With the arrival of European settlers, Boneset quickly gained traction as a go-to remedy in domestic medicine practices. Dr. Millspaugh’s endorsement in 1887 underscored its widespread popularity, remarking that hardly a farmhouse attic or woodshed lacked bunches of Boneset, always at the ready to alleviate ailments.
Notable herbalists such as Finlay Ellingwood and David Hoffman further championed Boneset’s efficacy. Ellingwood praised its ability to soothe the nervous system and relieve stomach disorders of nervous origin, citing compelling cases of its therapeutic prowess. Hoffman lauded Boneset as a premier remedy for influenza, attributing its success to its ability to diffuse heat from the body, especially beneficial for respiratory sources of fever.
Scientific studies have bolstered the anecdotal evidence, unveiling Boneset’s remarkable antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Its rich array of phytochemicals, including sesquiterpene lactones and flavonoids, contribute to its immune-stimulating and anti-tumour activities, further validating its traditional uses.
However, cautious use is warranted, do not use fresh plant Boneset, as it contains tremerol, a toxic compound found in fresh plants.
In summary, Boneset stands as a bridge between traditional wisdom and modern science, offering a holistic approach to healing rooted in cultural heritage and validated by empirical evidence. Its journey from indigenous remedy to household staple highlights its enduring relevance in promoting health and well-being.
Traditional Uses:
- Gastrointestinal System: Treats dyspepsia, stomach pains, and constipation; tonifies the gastrointestinal system; promotes digestion; expels worms (anthelmintic).
- Immune System: Addresses cold, influenza, malaria, yellow fever, typhoid.
- Musculoskeletal System: Alleviates broken bones, rheumatic pain, gout, arthritis, and headaches.
- Respiratory System: Targets respiratory catarrh, and cough with mucus.
- Systemic: Manages fever, headaches due to fever, snakebite (root); acts as an analgesic for stomach and left side pain; serves as a general panacea and spring tonic.
- Urinary and Renal System: Acts as a diuretic, supports kidney function, and aids the urinary system.
Phytochemistry:
- Constituents: Sesquiterpene lactones, caffeic acid derivatives, flavonoids (methoxyflavonoids), triterpenes, phytosterols, polysaccharides, volatile oil.
Research Findings:
- Antibacterial: Shows some activity against gram-positive bacteria, especially Staphylococcus aureus.
- Anti-inflammatory: Demonstrates activity in downregulating cytokine production and inhibiting nitric oxide formation.
- Antimalarial: Historical use supported by recent in vitro studies showing significant antiprotozoal activity.
- Immunostimulant: Enhances nonspecific immunity; polysaccharides and sesquiterpene lactones contribute to this effect, particularly when combined with Echinacea angustifolia.
Safety and Cautions:
- Side Effects: Emetic and purgative in large doses; may cause contact allergic dermatitis in hypersensitive individuals.
- Safety Profile: Generally safe within recommended dosage; no known contraindications or herb/drug interactions.
- Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use during pregnancy and lactation.
Reference: The Energetics of Western Herbs Peter Holmes, The Earthwise Herbal Matthew Wood, The Holistic Herbal David Hoffman.
The information provided is for educational purposes and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Consult your medical care provider before using herbal medicine, particularly if you have a known medical condition, are on any medication, and if you are pregnant or nursing.