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Anemopsis californica (Saururaceae)

Botanical Information

Family: Saururaceae
Common Names: Yerba Mansa, Lizard Tail, Swamp Root
Parts Used: Root, Leaves, Flowers

Description

Anemopsis californica, commonly known as Yerba Mansa, is a perennial herbaceous plant native to the southwestern United States and northern Mexico. It thrives in wetlands and marshy areas, developing a distinctive cone-shaped white flower. Yerba Mansa has been traditionally used by Indigenous tribes and Hispanic herbalists as a powerful antimicrobial, astringent, and anti-inflammatory herb, particularly for respiratory, digestive, and urinary tract conditions.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used by Native American tribes (such as the Chumash and Apache) for respiratory infections, colds, and congestion.
  • Traditionally applied as a wash or poultice for wounds, fungal infections, and skin irritations.
  • Employed in Hispanic folk medicine as a urinary tract and kidney tonic.
  • Historically brewed into teas for digestive complaints, sore throats, and ulcers.

Constituents

  • Methyleugenol (Antimicrobial, mild anesthetic)
  • Tannins (Astringent, wound healing)
  • Flavonoids (Anti-inflammatory, circulatory benefits)
  • Essential Oils (Mild pain relief, respiratory support)
  • Polysaccharides (Immune-supportive, mucilaginous)

Actions

  • Antimicrobial
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Astringent
  • Expectorant
  • Diuretic
  • Mild Anesthetic

Medicinal Uses

  1. Respiratory Health & Expectorant Effects
    • Traditionally used for colds, sinus infections, and bronchitis.
    • Helps clear mucus and congestion, making it useful for respiratory infections.
    • Can be used as a steam inhalation or tea for sinus and lung support.
  2. Urinary Tract & Kidney Health
    • Acts as a mild diuretic, helping to flush out urinary tract infections (UTIs).
    • Traditionally used to strengthen the bladder and reduce inflammation.
  3. Digestive & Gut Healing
    • Helps soothe gastritis, ulcers, and stomach irritation.
    • Astringent properties aid in reducing diarrhea and leaky gut issues.
  4. Wound Healing & Skin Conditions
    • Applied as a poultice or wash for cuts, burns, and fungal infections.
    • Has antifungal effects, making it useful for athlete’s foot and skin rashes.
  5. Circulatory & Joint Pain Support
    • Traditionally used to reduce swelling and inflammation in arthritis.
    • Can be applied topically for joint pain and muscle aches.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea for Respiratory & Urinary Support):

  • 1-2 tsp of dried root per cup of water.
  • Simmer for 10-15 minutes, drink 1-2 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-4 ml taken up to twice daily.

Poultice (For Wounds & Infections):

  • Crushed fresh or dried root applied to cuts, infections, and fungal areas.

Steam Inhalation (For Sinus Congestion):

  • Add a handful of dried yerba mansa to a bowl of hot water and inhale deeply for 5-10 minutes.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Use with caution, especially in large doses.
  • Low Blood Pressure: May have mild hypotensive effects, so use with caution.
  • Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may be sensitive to methyleugenol-containing plants.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports respiratory health, tissue healing, and immune defense.
Traditional Native American Medicine: Used for infections, sinus congestion, and digestive balance.
Hispanic Folk Medicine: Applied for urinary and kidney support, wound healing, and general tonic use.

Combinations

  • For Respiratory Health: Combine with mullein and thyme.
  • For Urinary & Kidney Support: Use with cornsilk and uva-ursi.
  • For Wound Healing & Antifungal Effects: Pair with calendula and tea tree oil.
  • For Digestive Support: Blend with chamomile and licorice root.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting:
    • Roots are collected in late autumn or early winter.
    • Leaves and flowers are harvested in spring and summer.
  • Drying:
    • Air dry roots and leaves in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage:
    • Keep dried material in an airtight container, away from moisture and light.

Modern Research

  • Studies confirm yerba mansa’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its traditional use for wound healing and infections.
  • Research suggests its tannins and essential oils contribute to its expectorant and diuretic effects.
  • Some evidence indicates methyleugenol may have mild pain-relieving and anesthetic properties.

Conclusion

Anemopsis californica (Yerba Mansa) is a versatile traditional herb known for its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and respiratory-supporting properties. It is particularly effective for sinus congestion, urinary tract health, and wound healing. Due to its strong astringency, it should be used in moderation.

🌿 A powerful desert remedy for infections, inflammation, and holistic healing!