Turtlehead (Chelone glabra)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Scrophulariaceae
• Common Names: Turtlehead, White Turtlehead, Bitter Herb
• Parts Used: Aerial parts, primarily leaves and flowers

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Description

Chelone glabra is a perennial herb native to North America, commonly found in wet meadows, marshes, and along stream banks. Its unique turtle-shaped flowers give it its name. Traditionally used in Native American and Western herbal medicine, Turtlehead is known for its bitter digestive tonic effects, liver support, and mild laxative properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Native American tribes as a digestive aid and liver tonic.
• Traditionally applied externally for skin conditions and wounds.
• Employed to stimulate appetite and bile flow, supporting overall digestion.

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Constituents

• Iridoid glycosides (including catalpol)
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Alkaloids
• Bitters

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Actions

• Bitter tonic
• Hepatic (liver-supporting)
• Mild laxative
• Anti-inflammatory
• Choleretic (stimulates bile production)
• Antimicrobial

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Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive and Appetite Stimulation:
Turtlehead is traditionally used as a bitter herb to stimulate digestion, enhance appetite, and relieve indigestion.

2. Liver and Gallbladder Support:
Helps detoxify the liver, supports bile flow, and may assist in gallbladder congestion.

3. Mild Laxative Effects:
Can be used to gently relieve constipation by stimulating digestion and bowel movements.

4. Skin Healing and Anti-Inflammatory Properties:
Applied externally to ease skin irritations, sores, and minor wounds.

5. Anti-Parasitic Benefits:
Historically used to help expel intestinal parasites due to its bitter properties.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

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

Tincture:

• 2-4 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Wash:

• Strong infusion applied externally for skin irritations and inflammation.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to its bitter and stimulating effects on digestion.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: May be too stimulating for those with acid reflux or ulcers.
• Taste Sensitivity: Strongly bitter; best combined with other pleasant-tasting herbs in teas or tinctures.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and bitter; supports digestion and detoxification.
• Native American Medicine: Used to promote digestion, bile flow, and skin healing.

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Combinations

• For Digestive Health: Combine with ginger and fennel.
• For Liver Support: Combine with dandelion and burdock root.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

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

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Modern Research

Studies suggest Chelone glabra’s benefits for digestive stimulation, liver support, and mild antimicrobial activity, reinforcing its traditional medicinal use.

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Turtlehead remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestive support, liver health, and skin healing.