Gumweed (Grindelia camporum syn. Grindelia robusta var. rigida)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Asteraceae
• Common Names: Gumweed, Resinweed, Tarweed
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (leaves, flowers, stems)

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Description

Grindelia camporum is a hardy perennial or biennial herb native to North America, particularly found in dry, open areas and along roadsides. It is recognized by its sticky, resinous flower heads and has been traditionally used for respiratory, skin, and inflammatory conditions.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Native American tribes for respiratory ailments, particularly asthma and bronchitis.
• Traditionally applied topically for poison ivy, burns, and skin irritations.
• Employed as an expectorant to aid in coughs and mucus congestion.
• Historically used in Western herbal medicine for bladder and kidney health.

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Constituents

• Resins
• Flavonoids
• Essential oils
• Diterpenes
• Saponins

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Antispasmodic
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antimicrobial
• Diuretic
• Vulnerary (wound-healing)

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Gumweed is traditionally used to relieve asthma, bronchitis, and coughs by reducing mucus and easing breathing.

2. Skin Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Benefits:
Applied as a wash or salve for poison ivy, rashes, burns, and insect bites.

3. Urinary and Bladder Support:
Acts as a mild diuretic and antiseptic for bladder and kidney health.

4. Digestive Support:
Helps soothe indigestion and mild gastric irritation.

5. Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation:
Used for muscular tension and spasms, particularly in respiratory conditions.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

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

Tincture:

• 2-5 ml taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice (Topical Use):

• Crushed fresh leaves or flowers applied directly to affected areas.

Salve:

• Infused oil used for skin irritations and burns.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution and consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Heart Conditions: May have mild cardiac effects; avoid excessive use in individuals with heart disease.
• Allergies: Avoid if allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and drying; supports respiratory, skin, and urinary health.
• Traditional Indigenous Medicine: Used for lung congestion, skin conditions, and urinary health.
• Ayurveda: Primarily balances Kapha and Vata, but excessive use may increase Pitta.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
• For Urinary Health: Combine with uva ursi and corn silk.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Aerial parts are best collected in mid to late summer when the plant is in full bloom.
• Drying: Air dry in a well-ventilated, shaded area.
• Storage: Store dried plant material in airtight containers away from moisture and light.

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Grindelia camporum’s expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, reinforcing its traditional applications.

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Gumweed remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory health, skin healing, and urinary support.