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Polymnia (Polymnia uvedalia)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Asteraceae
  • Common Names: Uvedalia, Bear’s Foot, Large-Flowered Leafcup
  • Parts Used: Root, Leaves

Description

Polymnia uvedalia, commonly known as Uvedalia or Bear’s Foot, is a perennial herb native to North America. Traditionally used in herbal medicine as a lymphatic tonic, it has been valued for its ability to support glandular health, improve circulation, and aid in detoxification. The root has been particularly prized for its stimulating and anti-inflammatory properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by Native American tribes as a poultice for swelling, bruises, and glandular conditions.
  • Employed in early American herbal medicine for liver support and digestive issues.
  • Traditionally used as a topical remedy for joint pain and muscle inflammation.
  • Included in lymphatic and metabolic tonic formulas.

Constituents

  • Saponins
  • Triterpenes
  • Flavonoids
  • Essential oils
  • Resinous compounds

Actions

  • Lymphatic stimulant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Circulatory tonic
  • Hepatic (Liver tonic)
  • Mild diuretic

Medicinal Uses

1. Lymphatic System Support:
Traditionally used to support lymphatic drainage, reduce swelling, and improve detoxification.

2. Liver and Digestive Health:
Considered a gentle liver tonic that may aid bile production and support digestion.

3. Circulatory and Metabolic Tonic:
Stimulates blood flow and has been used to promote metabolism.

4. Pain and Inflammation Relief:
Applied topically for joint pain, sore muscles, and inflammatory skin conditions.

5. Breast and Glandular Health:
Historically used for breast congestion, mastitis, and other glandular-related discomforts.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea from Root or Leaves):

  • 1 tsp of dried root per cup of hot water. Steep for 10-15 minutes. Drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml taken up to twice daily.

Topical Use (Poultice or Infused Oil):

  • Crushed fresh leaves or root applied externally for inflammation and pain relief.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to potential stimulating effects on the lymphatic and glandular systems.
  • Skin Sensitivity: Test on a small area before applying topically, as it may cause irritation.
  • Blood Pressure Considerations: May affect circulation; consult a healthcare provider before use if taking blood pressure medication.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional Western Herbalism: Stimulating and detoxifying; primarily used for lymphatic, circulatory, and metabolic health.
  • Traditional Eclectic Medicine: Used in lymphatic alterative formulas and applied for glandular swelling and sluggish liver function.
  • Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Aligns with herbs that move stagnant Qi, support digestion, and clear dampness.

Combinations

  • For Lymphatic Support: Combine with cleavers and red clover.
  • For Joint Pain Relief: Combine with arnica and comfrey.
  • For Liver Detoxification: Combine with burdock root and dandelion.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Roots are collected in autumn and dried for medicinal use; leaves are harvested in summer.
  • Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
  • Storage: Store dried root and leaves in airtight containers away from moisture and heat.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Polymnia uvedalia’s lymphatic-stimulating, anti-inflammatory, and circulatory-enhancing properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

Uvedalia remains a powerful herb in traditional medicine, particularly for lymphatic health, glandular support, and pain relief. Due to its stimulating nature, it should be used with caution and under professional guidance.