Herbal remedies have formed the backbone of traditional medicine systems worldwide for millennia. This article explores ten remarkable herbs, delving into their rich historical uses, the wisdom passed down through generations, and the fascinating insights emerging from modern scientific investigation. We will examine their key actions, traditional preparations, and important considerations for use, offering a comprehensive look at these powerful plant allies.
1. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.)
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza spp.), particularly Glycyrrhiza glabra, is an herb with significant medicinal properties.
Traditional and Historical Context: Licorice has a deep history in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), used for over 3,000 years, where it is known as gan cao and is considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs. Its traditional uses in TCM include regulating stomach function, tonifying qi (vital energy), acting as a lung demulcent and expectorant, clearing latent heat, reducing fever, detoxifying, reducing inflammation, invigorating the spleen, and serving as a synergist. These traditional actions align with the broader concepts of health in early China, which involved the cultivation and nourishment of material forces like qi and lengthening life (ming) through practices known as yangsheng (nourishing life). While the term yangsheng itself came later, the practices and goals were understood much earlier. Early Chinese medical literature, such as the Mawangdui medical manuscripts, mentions gancao as part of a recipe boiled with other substances, suggesting its inclusion in medicinal formulations from this early period. Historical use in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome is also noted, primarily for respiratory issues like coughs and asthma.
Parts Used and Preparation: While the specific part isn’t always detailed, traditionally the root is common. The Mawangdui manuscript mentions gancao without specifying the part. It is listed as a component in herbal formulations, including tinctures, and is used in boiled recipes historically. An oral patch containing glycyrrhiza complex herbal extract has been studied for aphthous ulceration.
Key Actions and Uses: Licorice has the ability to directly bind and inactivate HMGB1, a protein involved in inflammatory responses. It is specific for reducing cytokine cascades, which are implicated in inflammatory conditions. It is considered a main herb for inhibiting viral infection of neural cells and is listed among the best herbs for inhibiting HMGB1. Licorice can help any ulceration that has occurred, including aphthous ulceration. It is listed as useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2). Its traditional uses in TCM cover a wide range, including cough, pharyngolaryngitis, stomachache, peptic ulcers, hepatitis, encephalitis B, measles, and all types of respiratory infections. It is also listed as effective against Dengue Fever Virus and Enterovirus 71.
Scientific Insights: Research indicates its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral effects. Studies have shown it increases survival in mice with herpes simplex encephalitis. Its component, glycyrrhizin, can directly modulate the fluidity of plasma membranes and the HIV-1 envelope. An oral patch with glycyrrhiza complex showed promise for aphthous ulceration. Interaction of licorice on glycyrrhizin pharmacokinetics has been studied.
Dosage and Combinations: Licorice is a component in various herbal formulations, including tinctures. It is included in a common influenza tincture blend along with lomatium, red root, and pleurisy root. The specific dosage for this blend is up to 1 teaspoon six times daily in acute conditions with debility. Specific dosage information for standalone use or other preparations can vary.
Cautions: While generally well-tolerated, prolonged use of high doses of licorice can lead to side effects such as elevated blood pressure and potassium depletion. It’s advisable to use it under guidance, especially for extended periods.
2. Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis)
Chinese Skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis), also referred to by its genus Scutellaria, is a highly studied medicinal plant.
Traditional and Historical Context: This herb has a history of use in China stretching back over 2,000 years, where it is counted among the 50 fundamental herbs. In traditional Chinese medicine, its root decoction has been used to effectively treat scarlet fever, chronic bronchitis, and epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis. Traditionally, it is considered bitter and cold, used to dispel heat (acting as a fever reducer and anti-inflammatory), expel damp heat (relevant for lung infections), detoxify, stop bleeding, and prevent abnormal fetal movements. The Chinese consider S. baicalensis to be the strongest species of skullcap, particularly for viral infections.
Parts Used and Preparation: For Scutellaria baicalensis, the root only is used. This is a crucial distinction compared to other Scutellaria species, where the aerial parts are often used but are considered less potent, especially for viral infections. Medicinals prepared from S. baicalensis root can be hard to find in the United States, with tinctures of the American leaf tinctures being more common. Recommended preparations include tinctures and powder/capsules. A root decoction has been used traditionally and in clinical situations in China.
Key Actions and Uses: Chinese Skullcap is specific for reducing cytokine cascades and is a main herb for protecting neural cells and neural mitochondria. It is also a main herb for inhibiting viral infection of neural cells. It is listed among herbs useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2) and is highlighted as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. The herb is both anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive. It is indicated for CNS damage or encephalitis to reduce inflammation and protect/restore neural structures. It can help with sleep due to its melatonin content. It has been traditionally used for conditions like scarlet fever, chronic bronchitis, epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis, pulmonary infection, and upper respiratory infections in children.
Scientific Insights: Extensive research exists on Chinese Skullcap, including in vitro, in vivo, and human/clinical trials. Its components, such as baicalein and wogonin, can inhibit irradiation-induced skin damage by suppressing increases in inflammatory markers like MMP-9 and VEGF through the suppression of COX-2 and NF-κB. In mice infected with hepatitis C, S. baicalensis decreased serum virus content. It reduces IL-6 and TNF-α in mouse models of pelvic inflammatory disease. It inhibits passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and reduces histamine release in rats. S. baicalensis extract stimulates the formation of red blood cells and their precursors. In vitro studies show it increases anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 and stimulates CD4+ lymphocytes. It suppresses HSV infection by inhibiting NF-κB activation. The compounds in the root are synergistic. All studied compounds are potently antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, and free radical scavenging. Wogonin is the most potent nitric oxide inhibitor, oroxylin inhibits lipid peroxidation, and baicalein appears to be the most potent antiviral compound. The root decoction was found to be stronger than isolated baicalin and debaicalin in one study. Human studies in China have shown effectiveness in treating scarlet fever, chronic bronchitis, and epidemic cerebrospinal meningitis. When baicalin was used with an antibiotic for bacterial meningitis, inflammatory cytokines were markedly lower, mortality was reduced, and symptoms improved. A comparison with piperacillin sodium for pulmonary infection showed similar outcomes. A decoction was beneficial for children with upper respiratory infections, normalizing temperature. Combining S. baicalensis with ribavirin showed better outcomes against influenza A in mice than ribavirin alone. Some studies show similar constituents in roots of other Scutellaria species like S. lateriflora, S. racemosa, S. viscidula, S. amoena, and S. planipes compared to S. baicalensis, and some roots (e.g., S. planipes) were equally active antibacterials and antiallergics, or stimulated monoclonal antibodies to encephalitis virus E protein (S. rivularis).
Dosage and Combinations: For root tincture (1:5 ratio, 50% alcohol), the dosage is 1/4–1/2 teaspoon three times daily, doubled in acute conditions. For CNS damage or encephalitis, the goal is to flood the brain and CNS with compounds over a long time. For sleep, 1/2 teaspoon of tincture before bedtime is suggested. Fresh leaf tincture (1:2 ratio) dosage is 10–30 drops up to six times daily, with higher doses (up to 1/2 ounce) reportedly used without side effects for American skullcaps. Powdered herb/capsules are typically dosed at 3–9 grams at a time, divided into three equal doses every four hours. The herb is almost always used in combination in human clinical studies.
Cautions: No significant side effects have been noted even at high doses of American skullcap leaf tinctures, though individual reactions are always possible.
3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger (Zingiber officinale), commonly known as ginger root, is a widely used herb with a range of medicinal applications.
Traditional and Historical Context: Early Chinese medical literature, like the Mawangdui medical manuscripts, mentions ginger (jiang) in a recipe alongside licorice (gancao) and other substances, indicating its use in early Chinese medicinal formulations. While extensive clinical trials for viral diseases might be ongoing, ginger is universally used for colds and flu. Traditional uses include calming nausea, reducing stomach cramping and diarrhea, reducing fever by stimulating sweating, alleviating cold chills, reducing bronchial inflammation, thinning mucus, reducing coughing, and providing analgesic relief. Dried ginger root is considered better for severe morning sickness and nausea, while fresh ginger is preferred for general nausea.
Parts Used and Preparation: The root is the part typically used. Preparations mentioned include a tincture combination, ginger juice tea, tea, powder, capsules, and inclusion in food. A strong decoction is used historically in the Mawangdui recipes. Water extracts of dried roots show little antimicrobial activity but retain anti-inflammatory properties, and different preparations (fresh vs. dried, extraction methods) can significantly affect medicinal actions.
Key Actions and Uses: Ginger is specific for rhinovirus infections, which cause the common cold. A tincture combination including ginger, as well as ginger juice tea, have been found very effective for these infections. It is listed as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. Beyond colds, ginger root has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic actions. It is noted as especially effective for treating severe morning sickness in pregnant women and for nausea in general. Ginger root can interfere with the adhesion of enterobacterial disease organisms to the intestinal wall, reducing entero-infection and diarrhea, and can reduce spasms in the intestinal tract. It also has cerebroprotective actions, increases immune markers, acts as a heavy metal detoxifier (reducing cadmium levels), and reduces the effects of organophosphate insecticides. It is effective against certain endoparasites. Ginger is considered a synergist, capable of modifying bacterial resistance and increasing the effectiveness of other medicinal substances by improving circulation. It is listed as effective for Enterovirus 71.
Scientific Insights: There are about 1,400 journal listings for studies on ginger on PubMed. Gingerol and its related compounds are potent inhibitors of lipopolysaccharide-induced PGE2 production in vitro and strong inhibitors of NF-κB expression and TNF-α. In vivo, it reduces the incidence of liver neoplasms and blocks the development of liver cancer. Ginger inhibits both COX-1 and COX-2 in vitro by inhibiting several genes involved in the inflammatory response (cytokines, chemokines, 5-lipoxygenase, and COX-2). A trial with 56 people showed that dried ginger provided relief from pain and swelling in 75 percent of participants with rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, or muscular discomfort. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial with 102 people with osteoarthritis found ginger to be as effective as ibuprofen in relieving pain and swelling. Antirhinoviral sesquiterpenes have been isolated from ginger. Studies have also shown its antidiarrheal activity and comparative antibacterial activities of its crude polysaccharides and flavonoids.
Dosage and Combinations: Specific dosages for rhinovirus infections can vary, but a tincture combination and ginger juice tea are noted as effective. Clinical trials on osteoarthritis used dried ginger. The effects of preparation methods on activity are highlighted, with hot water efficiently releasing polysaccharides, although water extracts of dried roots show low antimicrobial activity.
Cautions: Ginger is generally very safe, though high doses might cause mild heartburn or digestive upset in some individuals. Its effectiveness for viral diseases is likely dependent on preparation methods.
4. Houttuynia (Houttuynia cordata, H. emeiensis)
Houttuynia (Houttuynia cordata and Houttuynia emeiensis are mentioned) is an herb recognized for its broad medicinal properties.
Traditional and Historical Context: Houttuynia is traditionally considered latent-heat clearing, antipyretic (fever reducing), detoxicant, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic. The fresh juice is traditionally used for snakebite and skin infections. Common medicinal uses in China include treatment for chronic nephritis, pelvic inflammatory disease, gonorrhea, rheumatism, anal prolapse, hemorrhoids, inflamed respiratory tract conditions (like pneumonia and bronchitis), measles, tonsillitis, and chronic sinusitis. The fresh leaf is traditionally considered more efficacious than the dried leaf. There is also significant indigenous and local use of the plant throughout its native range for both food and medicine.
Parts Used and Preparation: The fresh juice/leaf is used traditionally. The whole herb has been studied. The leaf is used for tea (dokudami cha) in Japan. The fresh root is used for decoctions in traditional practice for conditions like dysentery, diarrhea, and cholera.
Key Actions and Uses: This herb is specific for the reduction of cytokine cascades. It is listed as useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2) and is named as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. It possesses significant antiviral and antibacterial actions. It has been shown to be effective for treating dysentery, diarrhea, and cholera. It suppresses HSV infection. It is active against Staph aureus strains and strongly active against enterovirus 71. It has been used traditionally for various inflammatory conditions and infections.
Scientific Insights: A significant number of compounds within the plant possess antiviral and/or antibacterial actions. Studies have found the whole herb to be more effective than any of the isolated constituents, demonstrating a profound synergism in its chemical actions. One study indicated Houttuynia emeiensis is more potent in its antibacterial effects than H. cordata. In vitro studies show it increases anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10 and stimulates CD4+ lymphocytes. It protects and restores white blood cell counts and shows anti-obesity effects in mice. It has been effectively used in human clinical trials for chronic suppurative otitis media, atrophic rhinitis, and chronic maxillary sinusitis, and showed effectiveness in treating chronic-relapsing ulcerative colitis. Researchers in Korea are exploring its use as a “phytobiotic” in chicken feed as an alternative to antibiotics. Anti-herpes simplex virus active flavonoids have been found. It blocks HSV infection through inhibition of NF-κB activation. Studies on its antioxidative and antimutagenic effects have been conducted.
Dosage and Combinations: For dysentery, diarrhea, and cholera, a traditional dose involves boiling 1 1/2 ounces of fresh root until reduced by half, consuming half a glass twice daily for a week. Leaf tea is a common preparation in Japan. Specific dosages for other conditions or preparations can vary, but it has been used effectively in human clinical trials.
Cautions: Houttuynia is generally considered safe, with no major side effects commonly reported.
5. Isatis (Genus Isatis)
Isatis (genus Isatis) is discussed primarily for its potent antiviral effects. The specific species or plant part (likely Ban Lan Gen or Da Qing Ye from TCM) can vary.
Traditional and Historical Context: While not prominently featured in the earliest detailed historical medical texts like the Mawangdui manuscripts, Isatis is widely used in China for viral hepatitis and encephalitis. It is also used in veterinary practice for conditions like canine distemper.
Parts Used and Preparation: The specific part used can vary, though traditional TCM often employs the root (Ban Lan Gen) or the leaf (Da Qing Ye). It is a component in herbal tincture combinations and used as eyedrops.
Key Actions and Uses: Isatis is a component in herbal tincture combinations and is specific for reducing cytokine cascades. It is included among herbs useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2) and is one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. Isatis is strongly active against a wide range of viral infections, including influenza (all strains), SARS, primary respiratory virus infections, viral pneumonia, meningitis, Epstein-Barr (especially with acute sore throat), chicken pox, shingles, and generally any viral infection including encephalitis. It is also strongly active against paramyxoviruses like RSV, mumps, and measles. It is used for viral hepatitis and encephalitis and canine distemper. It has demonstrated anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic activity. It is used as eyedrops for acute bacterial conjunctivitis. It contains compounds that are potently inhibitory of Clostridium difficile.
Scientific Insights: Clinical studies in China have shown good outcomes for Japanese encephalitis virus. The plant contains isothiocyanates which are potently inhibitory of Clostridium difficile. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-allergenic activity has been demonstrated.
Dosage and Combinations: Isatis is a component in herbal tincture combinations and is used as eyedrops. Specific dosages for internal use can vary.
Cautions: Isatis is generally well-tolerated, but as with any herb, individual sensitivities can occur.
6. Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis)
Cordyceps (Cordyceps sinensis) is a fungus used as an herbal remedy.
Traditional and Historical Context: While not detailed in the earliest historical texts like Mawangdui, Cordyceps has a rich traditional use, particularly in Tibetan and Chinese medicine, where it’s prized as a tonic for vitality and longevity.
Parts Used and Preparation: The fungal body and/or the host insect are typically used. It is a component of a tincture combination with rhodiola.
Key Actions and Uses: Cordyceps has a specific action in protecting cilial structures. It is also specific for reducing cytokine cascades. It is listed as a main herb for protecting neural cells and neural mitochondria and for inhibiting viral infection of neural cells. Cordyceps is included among herbs useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2). It is considered effective for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and bronchitis, being especially indicated for COPD. Cordyceps has also shown positive effects in patients with renal conditions.
Scientific Insights: Clinical trials have shown benefits for asthma patients, reducing symptoms and inflammatory markers like Ig E, IL-4, and TNF-α. It has shown positive effects in patients with renal conditions, including significantly lowering microinflammation in renal dialysis patients and improving renal function in chronic renal failure and gentamicin-induced renal damage. Its use has been associated with a significantly lower incidence of complications in long-term renal transplant patients.
Dosage and Combinations: Cordyceps is a component of a tincture combination with rhodiola. Specific dosages for this combination or standalone use can vary.
Cautions: Cordyceps is generally considered safe for most people when taken appropriately.
7. Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), also referred to by its genus Astragalus and the Chinese name huangqi, is a significant herb in Chinese medicine.
Traditional and Historical Context: Astragalus is a major herb in Chinese medicine with a long history, used for 2,000 to 4,000 years. It is considered one of the 50 fundamental herbs. Traditionally, it is used for conditions related to spleen deficiency (fatigue, lack of appetite), weakness, sweating, and to stabilize vital energy (qi). It tonifies the lungs (for shortness of breath and frequent colds/flu), acts as a diuretic, tonifies blood, and promotes the discharge of pus for chronic ulcerations. Early Chinese medical literature, such as the Mawangdui medical manuscripts, mentions huangqi as part of a recipe, indicating its historical use in medicinal formulations. The concept of qi is fundamental in early Chinese thought, involving its cultivation and circulation for health and longevity. Tonifying qi is a key traditional action of Astragalus. Although not widely used in Western practice until the 1960s, it is now a primary immune tonic. A sacred song is also associated with the use of astragalus.
Parts Used and Preparation: The whole root contains constituents essential for treating carditis and enhancing immune function, and the majority of Chinese studies have used the whole herb. Astragalus may be taken as tea, powder, capsules, tincture, or in food. Traditional uses often involve cooking it or using it as a tea because hot water efficiently releases the beneficial polysaccharides from the root cells. Tincture preparations vary in herb:liquid ratio (1:2 to 1:5) and alcohol concentration (25% to 60%), with good quality tinctures often using 40-50% alcohol in a 1:3 or 1:5 ratio.
Key Actions and Uses: Astragalus is specific for reducing cytokine cascades and among herbs useful against Herpes Simplex Viruses 1 and 2 (HSV 1 and 2). It is presented as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. It is a primary immune tonic and enhances immune function. It may have some protective actions in upper respiratory infections and on digestive function. It has shown antifungal activity against Candida albicans (A. verus species).
Scientific Insights: Extensive scientific research, including clinical trials, exists on Astragalus. Studies suggest it can improve cognitive function like memory acquisition and retrieval. It has potent antioxidant effects on the brain, potentially preventing senility. It showed better recovery rates and reduced long-term negative effects in newborns with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy compared to pharmaceuticals and significantly reduced symptoms in children with cerebral palsy. When combined with Angelica sinensis, it showed an antifibrotic effect in a rat model of chronic nephrosis. Astragalus membranaceus flavonoids (AMF) have been found to ameliorate chronic fatigue syndrome. Astragaloside IV is one of the primary active ingredients for heart disease, increasing exercise tolerance, reducing chest distress/dyspnea, and optimizing left ventricular function. The methoxyisoflavone constituent is anabolic, enhancing strength and muscle formation, and may have protective actions in URIs and on digestive function. The majority of Chinese studies are with the whole herb. Astragalus verus has shown anti-candidal activity in vitro and in vivo models.
Dosage and Combinations: Dosage information can vary, but the herb is taken as tea, powder, capsules, tincture, or food. Traditional preparation methods often involve hot water (cooking, tea). Tincture preparation guidance is provided. The dosage used in the Astragalus verus anti-candidal study was 100 mg/kg/day.
Cautions: Astragalus is generally safe for most people. Standardizing for the methoxyisoflavone may not be ideal, as the whole root is considered essential for key actions.
8. Elder (Sambucus spp.)
Elder (Sambucus spp.), encompassing species like Sambucus nigra, S. ebulis, S. formosana, S. chinensis, S. javanica, and S. williamsii, is a widely recognized medicinal plant.
Traditional and Historical Context: Some believe the plant itself is an elder to plant communities, a gateway to the plant world. Various parts have a long tradition of medicinal use, although warnings against using the inner bark, leaves, or root are relatively recent (since ~1910). Historically, all parts were used with good effect, depending on preparation. In European and American herbalism, elder leaves were used for centuries as a nervine, relaxing the nervous system, and for conditions like epileptic fits, dementias, and uncontrollable movements. In Ayurveda, Sambucus nigra and S. ebulis exist, with S. nigra having more extensive use of flowers, berries, roots, leaves, and stem bark (flowers and leaves fresh). Uses in Ayurveda include hydrogogue, cathartic, antiepileptic (inner bark); diaphoretic, sudorific, laxative (flowers); increased renal function (berries); and aperient (root). S. ebulis roots are used for dropsy. Three red berry species (S. formosana, S. chinensis, S. williamsii) have been used in China for millennia, though seemingly not considered major medicinals. S. formosana and S. chinensis have been used for liver disease. S. chinensis (lu-ying) is used for hepatitis, liver injury, inflammations, as an analgesic, to induce sweating, as a diuretic, and for conditions like bruises, rheumatism, dislocations, nephritis, edema, beriberi, and urticaria. S. javanica (possibly a synonym for S. chinensis) leaves are used for pain relief in Indonesia, and the root, stems, and leaves for beriberi, and roots for jaundice. S. williamsii is used for inflammation, broken bones, and joint diseases. Elder is associated with cold and flu relief.
Parts Used and Preparation: Most commonly the berries and flowers are used. However, the leaves, bark, and root also have a long tradition of medicinal use. In Ayurveda, flowers, berries, roots, leaves, and stem bark are used, with flowers and leaves used fresh. In China, berries and leaves are used as syrups/decoctions, and root, stems, and leaves are used in decoctions. Preparations mentioned include standardized liquid extract/lozenge, berry juice, syrups, tea, juice decoction. A concentrated decoction of berries, stem bark, and leaves is considered the most potent antiviral combination. Decocted leaves, root, and stem bark are used for internal inflammations, broken bones, and arthritic complaints. Boiling the plant parts (leaves, berries, bark, root) for 30 minutes from cold water reduces cyanide content significantly, making them safe for use. A concentrated decoction involves a long boil time. Fresh leaf tincture is used as a nervine. A tincture of the stem can initiate sweating.
Key Actions and Uses: Elder is specific for rhinovirus infections (common cold). It is listed as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. It has shown significant antiviral and antibacterial actions. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and antifungal properties. Fresh parts can be emetic and purgative if used fresh or in sufficient quantity, causing nausea and vomiting. Used as a nervine (leaves) and to cause sweating (stem, leaf, root). It is used for cold and flu relief. It treats influenza and other respiratory infections, internal inflammations, broken bones, and arthritic complaints. S. javanica leaves are used for pain relief, and root, stems, and leaves for beriberi, and roots for jaundice. S. williamsii is used for inflammation, broken bones, and joint diseases. A combination formula including Sambucus nigra (Sinupret) is broadly antiviral.
Scientific Insights: Elder exhibits in planta antiviral activity via ribosome-inactivating proteins. It affects the production of human inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines. Various parts have been tested against numerous microorganisms. Elderberries are active against various influenza strains, HIV, FIV, HSV, tobacco mosaic virus, mycoviruses, and numerous bacterial species. Elder flowers are active against influenza A and B and several bacterial species. Elder leaves are active against several viruses (tobacco mosaic, lymphocytic choriomeningitis, Columbia SK), bacteria, and fungi (ringworm species, etc.). Elder stem bark is active against respiratory syncytial virus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, Columbia SK virus, various fungi (Candida albicans, etc.), and tobacco mosaic virus. The Sinupret combination, including Sambucus nigra, was found to be broadly antiviral against several respiratory viruses. Studies on S. williamsii leaves for healing broken bones and osteoporosis have been conducted. Chemical compounds are stronger in the leaves, stems, and roots. Boiling effectively reduces the cyanide content found in the plant.
Dosage and Combinations: Standardized liquid extracts, lozenges, berry juice, syrups, tea, or juice decoctions are common preparations. For influenzal infections, a cup of tea, glass of juice, or couple tablespoons of syrup are used for reducing fever. Boiling for 30 minutes is necessary to reduce cyanide levels. For broken bones in the Asian tradition, 1/2 to 1 ounce of leaves is boiled in 3 cups of water until reduced to 1 cup and consumed for 2 weeks. Root is used similarly for arthritis. Fresh leaf tincture as a nervine is dosed at 5 to 10 drops per hour, with some taking up to 1 teaspoonful every hour. Stem tincture can initiate sweating. The most potent antiviral is a concentrated decoction of berries, stem bark, and leaves. Decocted leaves, root, and stem bark are used for internal inflammations, broken bones, and arthritis. Dosage for S. javanica leaf decoction for pain is 1/2 to 1 ounce boiled in 3 cups water down to 1 cup, consumed for 14 days. Root, stems, and leaves for beriberi (S. javanica) are used similarly at 1 to 2 ounces fresh herb. Roots for jaundice (S. javanica) are used as a concentrated decoction. Sinupret is a multi-herb combination.
Cautions: Fresh parts of elder (leaves, berries, bark, root) can be emetic and purgative, potentially causing nausea and vomiting, but boiling for 30 minutes significantly reduces the compounds responsible. Warnings about using certain parts are relatively recent. Cooked berries are generally safe.
9. Lomatium (Lomatium spp.)
Lomatium (Lomatium spp.), including Lomatium dissectum, is known by various common names such as biscuit root, cough root, Indian consumption plant, desert parsley, and Indian parsnip.
Traditional and Historical Context: Lomatium has a history of use by indigenous cultures in the Pacific Northwest and other regions where it grows. Native American populations used the roots for food and the seeds and roots for medicine. Lewis and Clark were aware of its food uses. Lomatium gained awareness in the broader medical community during the 1918–1919 influenza epidemic, when the Washoe tribe in Nevada used it to treat sick members, reportedly with considerable effects compared to the virus’s impact. The Washoes reportedly used it as a panacea. Its use by indigenous peoples as an infusion or decoction is noted.
Parts Used and Preparation: The root is normally used for medicine, but the seeds are highly active and often contain more constituents than the root, and can be used instead (though this is less common). The roots are also edible before maturity and have been traditionally eaten in various ways. Tincture is the general modern preparation. Preparation methods include tinctures of fresh root (1:2 ratio, 70% alcohol), dry root (1:5 ratio, 70% alcohol, powdered), fresh seeds (same as fresh root), and dry seeds (1:3 ratio, 50% alcohol). Infusions or decoctions can also be made, as used by indigenous peoples. Traditional decoction involves boiling the root and consuming the broth in large doses. A common influenza tincture blend includes lomatium, red root, licorice, and pleurisy root.
Key Actions and Uses: Lomatium is a component of herbal tincture combinations and is listed as one of the Top Seven Antiviral Herbs. It is recognized historically as a potential “herbal virucide.” It is considered highly active against most viral and bacterial respiratory infections, including pneumonia. It is noted as being particularly effective for serious, debilitating influenza, avian flu, swine flu, West Nile, and incapacitating pneumonia. Clinicians have reported success using it for Epstein-Barr and cytomegalovirus (in chronic-fatigue-like situations), hepatitis C (lowering viral load), and HIV. It has also been used successfully for shigella and other bacterial infections. It is often considered a systemic antiviral, especially for respiratory infections and emerging influenza strains. Its actions include Analgesic, Antibacterial, Antifungal, Antimicrobial, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Expectorant, and Mucous membrane tonic. Historically, it was used for fevers due to influenza or pulmonary disease.
Scientific Insights: There have been few studies on Lomatium’s activity against microorganisms and virtually none on its activity against viruses. Two comprehensive studies from 1948 and 1949 focused on the antibacterial activities of extracted aromatics from the root, showing broad activity against various bacteria and fungi, being more active against Gram-positive organisms. Some Gram-negative organisms, like Vibrio comma and Neisseria catarrhalis, were highly susceptible. Researchers looking more broadly report the plant roots to be active against rotavirus and HIV, as well as certain bacteria, fungi, and Trypanosoma cruzi. The lomatiums contain a large number of chemically unique coumarins that have been found in studies to be powerfully antiviral against both RNA and DNA viruses (“remarkable”). These compounds penetrate the viral coat and inhibit ribonucleoprotein-complex-associated activity. They are exceptionally potent against influenza viruses (H1N1, etc.) and are some of the most potent M2 ion channel inhibitors known, more potent than amantadine. Lomatiums also have high levels of longifolene, an exceptionally active antimicrobial, active against Trypanosoma cruzi and primarily against Gram-positive bacteria.
Dosage and Combinations: General tincture dosages are 10–30 drops up to five times daily, or every hour in acute conditions. For the common influenza tincture blend (lomatium, red root, licorice, pleurisy root), the dose is up to 1 teaspoon six times daily in acute conditions with debility. Traditional decoction dosage involved large doses of the broth (a pound of root for 3 days). For serious or debilitating cases, focused treatment with high, frequent doses worked well, with improvement often seen within a day or two, though weeks might be needed for the most debilitated.
Cautions: Potential side effects should be considered, and some individuals may experience a skin rash (lomatium rash), which usually resolves upon discontinuation. The taste is described as intense.
10. Red Root (Ceanothus spp.)
Red Root (Ceanothus spp.) is a genus of plants native to the Americas, known by this common name, although “New Jersey tea” is sometimes cited as an old name.
Traditional and Historical Context: Red Root is a component in herbal tincture combinations and has a history in Native American herbalism. The Catawba tribe used it as a good medicine root for the sore mouth of a child (washing with it) and for sore nipples. They believed using the root made both the adult and child better.
Parts Used and Preparation: The root or inner bark of the root is the part used medicinally. The root bark and inner pith should be reddish purple or brown-red. Preparations include tincture, tea, strong decoction, gargle, and capsules, with tincture being suggested as best. Tincture (dry root, 1:5 ratio, 50% alcohol) dosage is 30–90 drops up to four times daily. Tea (1 teaspoon powdered root in 8 ounces water, simmer 15 minutes) dosage is up to six cups daily. Strong Decoction (1 ounce herb in 16 ounces water, simmer 30 minutes covered) dosage is 1 tablespoon three or four times per day. For tonsillitis or throat inflammation, a gargle with strong tea is used 4–6 times per day. Capsules (10–30 “00” capsules daily) are an option. For inflamed tonsils or sore throat, the tincture can be taken orally and allowed to contact the affected areas. A recommended dosage for chronic conditions is 30 drops per 150 lbs, three times daily, increasing to up to six times daily for acute episodes.
Key Actions and Uses: Red Root is a component in an herbal tincture combination that has been found very effective. It is recommended if spleen enlargement occurs. It is considered beneficial for inflamed tonsils, sore throat, and enlarged lymph nodes. It is included in a common influenza tincture blend. It possesses antibacterial properties. The Catawba tribe used it as a medicine for sore mouths in children and for sore nipples.
Scientific Insights: Research on Ceanothus species has looked into their effect on blood coagulation time. Studies have also examined the composition of Ceanothus greggii oil and blood coagulation principles from Ceanothus americanus. While specific studies on Red Root’s antiviral activity are not detailed, its inclusion in antiviral blends and traditional uses suggest such properties. Lomatium, often combined with Red Root, has significant antibacterial and antiviral activity.
Dosage and Combinations: Red Root is a component in a common influenza tincture blend with lomatium, licorice, and pleurisy root. Dosage for this blend is up to 1 teaspoon six times daily in acute debility. Specific preparation and dosage instructions for standalone use are provided for tincture, tea, strong decoction, gargle, and capsules, as well as dosage based on body weight for chronic and acute conditions.
Cautions: No significant side effects have been noted for Red Root. However, red root is contraindicated in pregnancy and should not be used with pharmaceutical coagulants or anticoagulants.