Page 204 - Lost Book Remedies

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies
Stone Root, Richweed,
Collinsonia canadensis
Stone root, also known as richweed, horse balm, and
ox balm is an herb with a lemon-like scent. It is a mem-
ber of the Lamiaceae (Mint) Family. It likes damp
places and shady woodland areas across eastern North
America.
Identification: The plant grows to 4 feet (1.2 me-
ters) tall when mature and grows from a single,
straight stem. Oval-shaped jagged-edges leaves are op-
positely arranged on a square stem. At the top of the
stem is a cone-shaped group of pale-yellow flowers
that bloom from July to September. The roots justify
their name as they are as hard as a rock.
Medicinal Use: The leaves and root are brewed to
make medicinal teas and washes.
Bladder Infections, Kidney Stones, and
Fluid Retention: The root tea has antibiotic effects
as well as being a powerful diuretic. It expels toxins
Stone root flowers, R. A. Nonenmacher, CC by SA 4.0
and bacteria from the body and is good for bladder and
kidney problems.
Healing Wounds: Try a Stone Root Tea wash for
wounds and minor skin infections. It has antibiotic and
antiseptic effects for healing.
203
Collinsonia canadensis, by R. A. Nonenmacher, Own work, CC-BY-SA-4.0
Hemorrhoids, Varicose Veins, Circulation,
and Inflammation: Stone root is excellent at re-
ducing inflammations, especially those caused by hem-
orrhoids and varicose veins. Taken internally the root
tea improves circulation and strengthens the veins and
reduces blood pooling.
Use as a tea internally and also as an external wash or
compress on the affected areas.
Sore Throats: Stone root tea, used as a gargle, gives
immediate relief for a strained larynx and for sore
throats.
Digestive Problems: Stone root tea relieves a
wide variety of digestive problems including indiges-
tion, heartburn, constipation, diarrhea, and excessive
flatulence. It soothes muscle spasms and improves cir-
culation to the digestive organs.
Reducing Stress and Anxiety: Stone root tea el-
evates the mood and increases feelings of well-being
while decreasing stress, panic, nervousness, and feel-
ings of anxiety. Some people report that it increases
energy levels and the libido.
Recipes. Stone Root Tea. 2 teaspoons grated
stone root, 3 cups water. Bring the water and stone root
to a boil and reduce the heat to a simmer and cover
tightly. Simmer the root for 30 to 45 minutes.