Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum)

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Botanical Information

• Family: Boraginaceae (formerly Hydrophyllaceae)
• Common Names: Yerba Santa, Mountain Balm, Bear Weed, Holy Herb
• Parts Used: Leaves, flowers

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Description

Eriodictyon californicum is a fragrant evergreen shrub native to the western United States, particularly California. The plant is traditionally valued for its ability to support respiratory health, reduce inflammation, and promote healing in various conditions. Yerba Santa has a resinous, aromatic nature and has long been used by Indigenous peoples and Western herbalists for its medicinal properties.

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Historical and Traditional Uses

• Used by Indigenous tribes for colds, asthma, and lung infections.
• Employed in Western herbalism to soothe sore throats and congestion.
• Applied as a poultice for wounds, bruises, and skin irritations.
• Used in herbal smoking blends to support respiratory function.

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Constituents

• Flavonoids
• Tannins
• Diterpenes (eriodictyol)
• Resinous compounds
• Essential oils

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Actions

• Expectorant
• Antimicrobial
• Anti-inflammatory
• Astringent
• Antioxidant
• Mild stimulant

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Medicinal Uses

1. Respiratory Support:
Traditionally used to relieve coughs, congestion, and asthma, helping to loosen mucus and ease breathing.

2. Sore Throat and Oral Health:
Used as a gargle or throat spray for soothing irritation and reducing inflammation.

3. Anti-Inflammatory for Skin and Joints:
Applied as a poultice or salve for wounds, rashes, and joint pain.

4. Digestive and Liver Support:
Used in small amounts to aid digestion and support liver detoxification.

5. Antioxidant and Immune Boosting:
Contains flavonoids that help combat oxidative stress and support immune function.

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Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

• 1-2 tsp of dried leaves 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 or dried leaves applied to skin irritations and wounds.

Steam Inhalation:

• Add dried leaves to hot water and inhale the steam for congestion relief.

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Precautions and Contraindications

• Pregnancy and Lactation: Use with caution; consult a healthcare provider before use.
• Allergies: May cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
• Gastrointestinal Sensitivity: Excessive use may cause stomach discomfort.
• Drug Interactions: May affect liver metabolism of certain medications.

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Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

• Traditional Western Herbalism: Warming and drying; supports the lungs and reduces excess mucus.
• Indigenous Medicine: Used as a sacred herb for purification and respiratory healing.
• Ayurveda: Balancing for Kapha and Vata, but may increase Pitta in excess.

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Combinations

• For Respiratory Health: Combine with mullein and licorice root.
• For Sore Throat Relief: Combine with sage and marshmallow root.
• For Skin Healing: Combine with calendula and plantain.

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Harvesting and Storage

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

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Modern Research

Studies confirm Eriodictyon californicum’s expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties, reinforcing its traditional uses.

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Yerba Santa remains a valuable herb in both traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for respiratory support, immune function, and skin healing.