Latin name: Asclepias tuberose
Common name(s): Butterfly Weed, Colic Root, Silkweed, Wind Root
Pleurisy root was used before the Europeans arrived in America primarily because of its excellent benefits for treating lung conditions such as Pleurisy hence the name for the plant. It is used to treat pains in breathing or inflammation in the pleural cavity due to acute bronchitis, chest congestion, colds, coughs, flu and pneumonia.
Pleurisy Root is often called Butterfly Weed because butterflies like the monarchs and swallowtails are extremely attracted by the plant when its flowers are in bloom. Pleurisy root works great in relaxing the body and calming spasms. It is very useful in increasing urine secretions which is very helpful in expelling toxins from the kidneys. It also works great in inducing perspiration which is great for breaking fevers.
Pleurisy Root is an anodyne, anti-spasmodic, carminative, cathartic, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic, expectorant, nervine, stimulant and tonic. The parts of the plant that are used in herbal healing are the roots. Pleurisy root works great in breaking up the congestion and phlegm of the chest and lungs due to colds and flu.
Pleurisy root is a perennial with hairy erect stems and large tuberous roots. It grows narrow oval leaves and in the summer it blooms reddish-orange flowers in clusters which are then followed by slender pods that contain seeds. Pleurisy root is a nutty flavored bitter tonic herb that acts as a expectorant and works great in the relief of gastritis.
Pleurisy root is very helpful in the treating of female disorders. It is also good in the treating of poisonous bites and stings. Pleurisy root is an excellent herb for the treatment of blood poisoning while it also reduces swelling and completely heals according to ‘Herbs To The Rescue’ by La Dean Griffin.
It can be used in the treatment of bruises, skin ulcers and wounds. It is very helpful in bringing relief to infants who are affected by colic. Pleurisy root also works great in treating eruptive fevers and rheumatic fevers too. Pleurisy root in excess can cause diarrhea and vomiting so be careful in how much you use internally. It should not be used by women who are pregnant or breast feeding.
Pleurisy Root can be used to treat any of the following:
Asthma, bronchitis, circulation, colds, colic, contagious diseases, coughs, croup, diarrhea, dry cough, dysentery, emphysema, eruptive fevers, fevers, flu, gastritis, influenza, kidneys, lung congestion, measles, mucus, nausea, perspiration, pleurisy, pneumonia, poisoning, rheumatic fever, rheumatism, scarlet fever, skin ulcers, sores, spasms, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, typhus, ulcers, uterine disorders and problems, vomiting, water retention and wounds.