Pleurisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Apocynaceae (formerly Asclepiadaceae)
• Common Names: Pleurisy Root, Butterfly Weed, Orange Milkweed
• Parts Used: Root

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Description

Asclepias tuberosa is a perennial herb native to North America, known for its bright orange flowers and historical use in treating respiratory conditions. It has been widely used in Native American and Western herbal medicine for its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly in cases of lung congestion and pleurisy.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Native American tribes as a remedy for lung ailments, fevers, and digestive issues.
• Employed in Western herbalism for respiratory conditions, including pleurisy, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
• Traditionally used as a diaphoretic to promote sweating and break fevers.

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Constituents

• Cardiac glycosides
• Flavonoids
• Saponins
• Alkaloids
• Volatile oils

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Diaphoretic (promotes sweating)
• Antispasmodic
• Mild cardiac tonic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Pleurisy root is well known for its ability to reduce lung congestion, expel mucus, and relieve inflammation in the respiratory tract.

2. Fever Reduction:
Traditionally used to induce sweating and help break fevers in cases of flu, colds, and infections.

3. Pain Relief for Pleurisy and Chest Conditions:
Historically used to ease the sharp pains associated with pleurisy and other lung infections.

4. Digestive Support:
Mildly bitter, it stimulates digestion and can help relieve bloating and sluggish digestion.

5. Lymphatic and Circulatory Support:
Encourages lymphatic drainage and supports circulation, particularly in respiratory infections.

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Preparation and Dosage

Decoction:

• Simmer 1 tsp of dried root in a cup of water for 15-20 minutes. Drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 1-4 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice:

• Crushed root can be applied externally for pain relief in chest congestion and inflammation.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Avoid use due to possible uterine stimulation.
• Heart Conditions: Contains cardiac glycosides and should be used cautiously in individuals with heart disease.
• Excessive Use: High doses may cause nausea, vomiting, or gastrointestinal discomfort.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Native American Medicine: Warming and drying, used to clear damp congestion from the lungs.
• Western Herbalism: Used as a cooling and relaxing herb for respiratory inflammation.

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Combinations

• For Lung Congestion: Combine with mullein and elecampane.
• For Fever Reduction: Combine with elderflower and yarrow.
• For Pain Relief in Pleurisy: Combine with wild cherry bark and licorice root.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Roots should be harvested in late summer or autumn after flowering.
• Drying: Dry roots in a warm, well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.
• Storage: Store dried root in an airtight container in a cool, dark place.

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Modern Research

Studies support Asclepias tuberosa’s traditional use for respiratory health, with research highlighting its expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties. Ongoing studies examine its potential cardiovascular effects.

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Pleurisy Root remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory health, fever reduction, and inflammation relief.