Stone Root (Collinsonia canadensis)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Lamiaceae
• Common Names: Stone Root, Hardhack, Horse Balm
• Parts Used: Root, rhizome, aerial parts

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Description

Collinsonia canadensis is a perennial herb native to North America, traditionally used in herbal medicine for its beneficial effects on circulation, digestion, and urinary health. It is particularly valued for its ability to strengthen blood vessels and relieve venous congestion, making it a key remedy for hemorrhoids, varicose veins, and pelvic stagnation.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional Native American medicine for urinary tract health and digestive support.
• Employed in 19th-century Eclectic medicine for venous disorders and inflammation.
• Applied as a tonic for the throat, voice, and vocal cords.

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Constituents

• Saponins
• Tannins
• Resins
• Mucilage
• Essential oils
• Flavonoids

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Actions

• Circulatory tonic
• Astringent
• Diuretic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antispasmodic
• Digestive stimulant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Venous Circulation and Varicose Veins:
Stone Root is traditionally used to tone and strengthen blood vessels, reducing symptoms of hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

2. Urinary Tract Health:
Acts as a diuretic and soothes irritation in the urinary tract, benefiting conditions such as kidney stones and bladder inflammation.

3. Digestive Health:
Helps relieve indigestion, gas, and sluggish digestion by improving bile flow and stimulating digestive secretions.

4. Throat and Vocal Cord Support:
Traditionally used for hoarseness, laryngitis, and throat irritation, especially in speakers and singers.

5. Anti-Inflammatory and Pain Relief:
Has been used to ease inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and pelvic congestion.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried root per cup of boiling water. Steep for 15 minutes and drink up to 2 times daily.

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Compress:

• Applied externally to varicose veins or inflamed tissues.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Low Blood Pressure: May lower blood pressure in sensitive individuals.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Can cause mild digestive discomfort in some individuals.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; supports circulation, digestion, and urinary function.
• Eclectic Medicine: Regarded as a primary remedy for venous congestion and pelvic stagnation.

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Combinations

• For Circulatory Health: Combine with horse chestnut and butcher’s broom.
• For Digestive Support: Combine with dandelion and ginger.
• For Urinary Health: Combine with marshmallow root and uva ursi.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Roots are collected in late summer or early fall for medicinal use.
• Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
• Storage: Store dried roots in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Collinsonia canadensis’s benefits for venous health, inflammation reduction, and urinary tract support, reinforcing its traditional medicinal applications.

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Stone Root remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern medicine, particularly for circulatory, digestive, and urinary health.