Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Asteraceae
• Common Names: Boneset, Thoroughwort, Indian Sage
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems)

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Description

Eupatorium perfoliatum is a perennial herb native to North America, commonly found in wet meadows and along riverbanks. It is distinguished by its opposite, perfoliate leaves that appear to be pierced by the stem. Traditionally, it has been valued for its fever-reducing, immune-stimulating, and expectorant properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Indigenous peoples and early American settlers to treat fevers, colds, and influenza.
• Employed as a diaphoretic to induce sweating and reduce fever.
• Traditionally used as an expectorant for respiratory infections.
• Historically taken as a digestive bitter and laxative.

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Constituents

• Sesquiterpene lactones (eupatorin)
• Flavonoids
• Alkaloids (pyrrolizidine alkaloids in small amounts)
• Polysaccharides
• Tannins

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Actions

• Diaphoretic (induces sweating)
• Febrifuge (reduces fever)
• Expectorant
• Bitter tonic
• Mild laxative
• Immunomodulatory

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Medicinal Uses

1. Fever and Immune Support:
Traditionally used to break fevers by promoting sweating and enhancing immune response.

2. Respiratory Health:
Helps loosen mucus and ease symptoms of colds, flu, and bronchitis.

3. Digestive Stimulation:
Acts as a bitter tonic to support digestion and bile production.

4. Detoxification and Lymphatic Support:
Used to stimulate elimination through the liver, kidneys, and lymphatic system.

5. Joint and Muscle Pain Relief:
Historically taken for body aches associated with fevers and rheumatic conditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried herb per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to twice daily.

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves applied to swollen joints or inflamed skin.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to potential uterine-stimulating effects.
• Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids: Contains small amounts; long-term use should be avoided to prevent potential liver toxicity.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: High doses may cause nausea and vomiting.
• Allergies: May cause reactions in individuals sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and drying; used to reduce fever, clear infections, and stimulate digestion.
• Traditional North American Medicine: Used for fevers, respiratory health, and immune resilience.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Pitta, but may increase Vata in excess.

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Combinations

• For Fever Reduction: Combine with elderflower and yarrow.
• For Immune Boosting: Combine with echinacea and astragalus.
• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in late summer.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in an airtight container away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Eupatorium perfoliatum’s immune-stimulating, expectorant, and febrifuge properties, reinforcing its traditional use in treating colds, flu, and fevers.

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Boneset remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for fever management, immune support, and respiratory health.