Gravel Root (bato root in tagalog)

(Queen of the Meadow) – (Eupatorium purpureum) Part used: Root. Properties: Diuretic, lithotriptic, astringent, nervine, stimulant. What it affects: Kidneys, bladder, nerves and joints.

Preparation and amount: Infusion (herb): Steep 5-15 min. Take 1-2 cups daily. Decoction (root): Simmer 6-15 min. Take 1-2 oz. as needed up to 2 cups daily. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops (1/2 – 1 tsp.) 3 times daily. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 - 1 tsp. 3 times daily. Powder: 5 #0 capsules (30 grains) 3 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, gravel root is one of the best remedies for gravel and stones in the kidneys and bladder. It is also used to treat the uric acid deposits in joints, which make them so painful. It also work to reduce water retention and deal with prostate disorders. A strong decoction is used: 1 oz. of the root boiled in a pint of water for one hour: Take a quarter cup at a time, as needed. When using a tincture, take 1 tsp. at a time. 

• In addition, gravel root is a nerve tonic and used for many female problems, alone or in combination. This includes dysmenorrheal, endometritis, leucorrhea, chronic uterine diseases, labor pains, and threatened abortions. Gravel root is also used for cystitis, edema, gout, rheumatism, weak pelvic organs, gonorrhea, cystitis, bright’s diseases, bloody urine, and backache.