A tall, hardy perennial, growing to 1.5 m (5 ft.), with lance late, rough-textured leaves surrounding the stems (per foliate), and large clusters of white flowers in late summer.
History and traditions
Boneset was an important herb in the traditional medicine of Native Americans, used for fevers, digestive disorders, and rheumatism and as a powerful emetic and laxative. It also had magical protective properties assigned to it infusions were sprinkled to keep evil spirits away. The name has nothing to do with its ability to mend bone fractures, but refers to its efficacy in treating “break bone fever”, a virulent flu-like illness, from which the early settlers suffered. It was listed in Dr. Griffith’s Universal Formulary, 1859, to be administered in combination with sage and cascarilla bark “for a hectic fever”.
Growth
Grow in moist soil in full sun or partial shade. Propagate by seed sown in containers in spring or by division in spring or autumn.
Parts used
Whole plant dried for use in infusions, extracts and tinctures.
Uses
Medicinal
An herb which lowers fevers and relieves congestion, it is taken internally for colds, influenza and bronchitis. It is also thought to stimulate the immune system, as is E. cannabinum.
