Viper’s Bugloss (Echium vulgare)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Boraginaceae
• Common Names: Viper’s Bugloss, Blueweed, Snake Flower
• Parts Used: Aerial parts (flowers, leaves), seeds

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Description

Echium vulgare is a biennial or perennial herbaceous plant native to Europe and parts of Asia, now widely naturalized in North America. It is recognized for its striking blue flowers, bristly stems, and lanceolate leaves. Traditionally, it has been used for respiratory health, skin conditions, and as a mild nervine.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used in traditional European herbal medicine as a remedy for coughs, colds, and lung irritation.
• Employed as a skin-healing herb for wounds and burns.
• Historically associated with snakebite treatment due to its name and appearance.

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Constituents

• Pyrrolizidine alkaloids (toxic in high amounts)
• Mucilage
• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) (from seeds)

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Anti-inflammatory
• Demulcent
• Nervine
• Emollient
• Mild diaphoretic

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used as an expectorant to soothe coughs and ease lung congestion.

2. Skin Healing:
Applied externally to wounds, burns, and inflammatory skin conditions.

3. Nervous System Support:
Mildly calming and supportive for nervous tension and anxiety.

4. Anti-inflammatory Effects:
Helps reduce inflammation, especially in skin and respiratory conditions.

5. Circulatory and Cardiovascular Support:
Seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which is beneficial for circulation and heart health.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves or flowers 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 applied externally for burns and wounds.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pyrrolizidine Alkaloids: Avoid excessive use as it may be hepatotoxic over long periods.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: Not recommended due to potential liver toxicity.
• Skin Sensitivity: May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Allergic Reactions: Use caution if allergic to other plants in the Boraginaceae family.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Cooling and moistening; supports the respiratory system and nervous system.
• Traditional European Medicine: Used for wound healing and lung support.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Vata and Pitta, but may increase Kapha in excess.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Support: Combine with mullein and thyme.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.
• For Nervous System Support: Combine with lemon balm and oat straw.

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Harvesting and Storage

• Harvesting: Leaves and flowers are collected in summer during peak bloom.
• 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

Preliminary studies suggest Echium vulgare may have anti-inflammatory and respiratory benefits, though caution is advised due to pyrrolizidine alkaloids.

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Viper’s Bugloss remains a valuable herb in traditional medicine, particularly for respiratory health, skin healing, and nervous system support, though its pyrrolizidine alkaloid content necessitates cautious use.