Pleurisy Root

(Asclepias tuberose) Part used: Root. Properties: Diaphoretic, expectorant, antispasmodic, carminative, diuretic, nervine, tonic. What it affects: Lungs, kidneys, and nerves.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 30 min. Take 1-2 cups daily; children should take 1-5 drops in hot water every 1-2 hours. Decoction: Simmer 5-15 min. Take 2-3 oz. as needed. Tincture: Take 30-60 drops every 3 hours. Fluid extract: Take 1/2 - 1 tsp. 3-4 times daily. Powder: Take 3-5 #0 capsules (20-30 grains) 3-4 times daily.

Purposes: Internally, pleurisy root was widely used as an expectorant in the nineteenth century. It is ideal for pleurisy and pneumonia. In severe cases, combine equal parts of it with an infusion of skullcap, given in small amounts (2 oz.) every half hour while the patient is warmly tucked in bed. It is an excellent sweating agent to break up colds, flus, pleurisy, and bronchial problems. Sometimes it is given with cayenne at the beginning of a cold. American Indians chewed the dried root or made tea, by boiling the root, as a remedy for chest problems or dysentery. It reduces the inflammation of the pleural membranes of the lungs, stimulates the lymphatic system, and encourages the flow of normal lung fluids. It is also good for children’s stomach and bowel disorders. For bowel problems, use I tablespoon to a quart of boiling water; steep for 30 minutes and use warm as an enema for this.

Warning: Animals have been poisoned by eating the leaves and stems. The fresh root may also produce toxic effects.