Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)
Boneset is indigenous to North America and grows locally, often near water or in moist meadows. The flowers are off-white, and the leaves perforate the stem of the plant, giving it a distinctive appearance.The aerial parts (flowers and leaves) are harvested in the late summer either just before or after blooming.
Boneset is very bitter, cooling, anti-viral, diaphoretic, anti-inflammatory, a mucus membrane tonic and a smooth muscle relaxant.
It has been indispensable to native peoples for millennia and, during the nineteenth century. Boneset was used by native peoples for broken bones and is an ally when there is slow healing of connective tissue.
Eclectic medical doctors used boneset for combating viruses, malaria and colds with chills and aches and pains.
It was used with success during the viral pandemic of World War 1.
It was reported that boneset helped people avoid viral infections and that it prevented severe pulmonary complications.
A small amount of scientific research confirms its effectiveness in addressing the flu and the common cold.
Boneset is anti-inflammatory and may be helpful in preventing a cytokine cascade, which can happen in the later stages of a severe flu.
It thins the mucus and supports recovery in those who have been exhausted by the flu.
Because it is cooling and drying, boneset should be combined with warming antivirals such as lomatium or angelica, particularly to address viruses which are cold and damp, such as the coronavirus.
It is a powerful diaphoretic. Either alone or combined with elder, yarrow and peppermint, boneset tea helps to bring down stubborn fevers.
As a flower essence, boneset helps to align our emotional and spiritual energies, just as the physical herb helps to align bones.
Blessings,
Madelon Hope