Page 286 - Lost Book Remedies

The Lost Book of Herbal Remedies

Western Skunk Cabbage,

Lysichiton americanus

This plant is aptly named skunk cabbage because of its
odor when crushed. It is very easy to identify by its
physical characteristics, like its bright yellow spathe
(leaf-like bract) surrounding a dense flower spike. This
member of the Araceae (Arum) Family is also known
as Swamp Lantern and Meadow Cabbage.
Identification: One of the first plants to bloom in
the spring, it grows low to the ground in wet and
swampy areas. The bright yellow spathe appears
around the flower spike from February to May. Shiny Use aged skunk cabbage root dried and powdered or
large waxy green leaves appear after the flowers and apply the leaves directly to the skin as a poultice, com-
can have a putrid smell. Skunk cabbage attracts flies, press, or wash.
which facilitates pollination. The leaves are large, and
can grow up to a few feet in length. Skin Infections, Wounds, Rashes, Burns,
Bruises, and Insect Bites: Skunk cabbage is an
Edible Use: Do not consume raw due to calcium ox- anti-inflammatory and anti-infective.
alate crystals. When boiled for long periods, tradition-
ally 3 days or Use it in a poultice to draw out infection or treat an in-
longer, the roots sect bite, and as a wash to treat burns, bruises, rashes,
are edible. Boiling poison ivy, and psoriasis.
with multiple Carpal Tunnel, Arthritis, Sore Muscles and
changes of water is Joints: A skunk cabbage poultice or compress made
necessary to re- with Skunk Cabbage Tea placed on the joint or aching
move the toxic sub- muscle helps reduce inflammation and pain.
stances, so routine
use is not recom- Bronchitis, Asthma, Tuberculosis, and
mended. They are Anti-Spasmodic: Skunk cabbage root is an expec-
mostly known as a torant and antispasmodic, making it useful in treating
starvation food. bronchitis and asthma as it calms inflammation and
The young leaves, bronchial spasms, while also helping to expel mucus.
thoroughly cooked It also treats the underlying infection.
with at least one Nervous System: Aged skunk cabbage root is
change of water, slightly narcotic. It calms the nervous system and
are edible and have treats headaches, vertigo, and some nervous condi-
a pleasant peppery tions. It has been used to treat epilepsy and convul-
flavor. I use the large leaves as a wax paper for pit sions with mixed success.
roasts or to wrap my fish in prior to cooking over a fire.
Pregnancy and Labor: Skunk cabbage is benefi-
It does not impart a skunky smell or flavor and it holds cial during pregnancy and labor, promoting normal
in moisture nicely.
function of the nervous system and reproductive sys-
Medicinal Use: The root is toxic raw and must be tem. It soothes irritation and promotes efficient mus-
thoroughly cooked or dried and aged to remove the cle contractions.
toxin. Consult a medical professional before using during
I dry my roots in a dehydrator and store them in a cool, pregnancy or breastfeeding.
dry, and dark place for at least 6 to 8 weeks before use.

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