Boneset

(Eupatorium perfoliatum) Part used: Tops. Properties: Diaphoretic, stimulant, antipyretic, laxative. What it affects: Stomach, liver, intestines and circulation.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 5-15 min. Take 3 oz. 3 times daily. Tincture: Take 10-40 drops 3 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 – 1 tsp. 3 times daily. Powder: Take 4-10 #0 capsules (20-60 grains) 3 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, boneset is a specific for treating severe fevers, especially intermittent fevers. Taken as a warm infusion (drink 4-5 cups while in bed, to encourage sweating), it is widely used for flu, catarrh, and bronchitis. It helps relieve fever-induced aches and pains. It is a decongestant, loosening phlegm, reducing fever, increasing perspiration, and calming the body. An American Indian in Colonial times became famous for curing typhoid with boneset. For decades thereafter, the plant was named after him: Joe Pye weed.

• The tea is made using an ounce of herb to a pint of water, steeped 10 minutes. One-half cup is taken 3 times daily. When taken cold, it is a tonic stimulant and a mild laxative. Taken warm, it is diaphoretic and emetic; it can be used to break up a common cold, an intermittent fever, and the flu. The hot tea is both emetic and cathartic, and is used for sweating therapy, using 4-5 half-cup doses while in bed.

Warning: Long-term use can result in toxicity.