Spikenard (alabaster in tagalog)

(American) – (Aralia racemosa) Part used: Root-stock and roots. Properties: Diaphoretic, expectorant, stimulant.

Preparation and amount: Infusion: Steep 1-2 tsp. powdered rootstock and roots in 1 cup water. Take 1-2 cups daily.

Purposes: Internally, the powdered root of spikenard is for rheumatism, asthma, and coughs. Taking the tea for some time before labor will make childbirth easier. American Indians used the plant for backache.

Externally, Indians would pound the root into a pulp and use it for poultices. It is used for skin problems, wounds, swellings, bruises, and inflammations. A fomentation is placed over the chest, to reduce internal pains.

 
Note: Spikenard is a close relative of sarsaparilla. There is also a second herb called “spikenard” (Aralia nudicaulis), or wild sarsaparilla. Its properties are much like those of sarsaparilla, discussed elsewhere in this herb list.