Post on 27-Mar-2023
Vascular Medicinal Plants of the Wetlands of
West Virginia, US
*Kelli D. Williams and Dan K. Evans, Advisor
Herbarium, Department of Biological Sciences
Marshall University
Huntington, WV 25755
*Capstone Research
Abstract
A list has been compiled for the Herbarium at Marshall University of vascular
medicinal plants found in the wetlands of West Virginia, to be published as a booklet.
The list was assembled using many sources, the initial information was assembled from
the West Virginia Natural Heritage program Checklist of the Wetland Vascular Plants of
West Virginia (Harmon, et al.); each listing was then researched for medicinal qualities
from ethnobotanical uses to chemical investigation. A total of 82 species from 57 genera
and 45 families were found to occur in the wetlands of West Virginia, some have been
well studied, and some have not. The intention of this booklet is twofold, to point out the
medicinal plants the wetlands contain and to further call attention to the importance of
wetlands to our environmental health and human health.
Introduction
The wetlands of the world are very important parts of our environment, although
most people think of wetlands as coastal ecosystems, they are also an essential piece
of inland environs. Wetlands, as defined by the Clean Water Act, "those areas that are
inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient
to support, and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands generally include
swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas." (United States). They are habitats for many
animals and plants including those with medicinal properties; some common plants we
use as cold remedies today come from wetlands plants while new chemical properties
are being discovered every day in ongoing research, which is another reason to
maintain their health and stability.
Methods and Materials
From the Checklist of the Wetland Vascular Plants of West Virginia (Harmon, et
al.) a list was compiled of 45 families, 57 genera, and 82 species of plants (Figure 1)
occurring in wetlands with known medicinal uses. Each species was then researched in
publications, books, and online resources for medicinal qualities, from traditional uses to
modern medicinal applications including chemical information if available.
Results
Taxonomic Table
Families 45
Genera 57
Species 82
Figure 1.
Families Number of species
Lamiaceae 9
Asteraceae 7
Ranunculaceae 5
Rosaceae 5
Salicaceae 5
Araceae 4
Alismataceae 3
Poaceae 3
Polygonaceae 3
Figure 2.
The 9 most common families found in the West Virginia wetlands with 3 or more
species each as shown in Figure 2, all have important medicinal qualities. Lycopus
virginicus L., Water horehound from the Lamiaceae family blocks receptors to prevent
stimulation of the thyroid, and used mainly for milder cases of hyperthyroidism (Pierce
p. 120-22), it is approved by the German Commission E report for this use (Foster and
Duke p. 81). Eupatorium perfoliatum L., or Boneset in the Asteraceae family, has been
shown to contain the compound eupatorin, an antibacterial compound that, in
combination with other herbs, stimulates phagocytes, to boost white blood cells (Pierce
p. 107-10). Goldthread, Coptis groenlandica (Oeder) Fern., contains the compound
berberine which has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties (Foster and Duke p.
42), this plant is in the Ranunculaceae family.
The Rosaceae family member, Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson, known as
Queen of the Prairie shows antimicrobial properties against Staphylococcus aureus in
laboratory tests (Borchardt et al.) Salicin, a chemical precursor to aspirin (Pierce p. 665-
67), is found in White Willow, Salix alba L. occurring in the Salicaceae family; it is
converted to saligenin in the intestines then oxidized to salicylic acid in the liver and
blood (Foster and Duke p. 321-22). Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. is a representative
of the Araceae family; the American diploid strain of Sweetflag does not contain beta-
asarone, a carcinogen; this strain has spasmolytic properties (Foster and Duke p. 99).
Arrowroots, Sagittaria latifolia Wild., from the Alismataceae family are eaten like
potatoes; a food source for Native Americans, also poulticed to treat wounds (Foster
and Duke p. 21). Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv., Sweetgrass, found in the Poaceae
family, has active free radical scavenging compounds 5,8-dihydroxybenzopyranone and
5-hydroxy-8-O-β-d-glucopyranosyl-benzopyranone (Pukalskas et al.). The
Polygonaceae family member, Polygonum hydropiper L., or commonly known as
Smartweed, contains the compound rutin, a bioflavonoid with the chemical formula of
C27H30O16 (Phytochemicals) which helps to prevent bleeding by stabilizing capillaries
(Foster and Duke p. 241).
The medicinal value of many wetland plants is often overlooked by all but those
who still make use of them and to those whom they pass on their knowledge. They have
been used by natives for hundreds of years, and they house chemical properties, many
of which are not fully studied or understood by science. This is yet another reason to
protect wetland ecosystems; to allow further research into the value of medicines that
occur within these habitats.
GENUS/SPECIES FAMILY COMMON FAMILY NAME
Acer rubrum L. ACERACEAE Maple
Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. ARACEAE Arum
Alisma subcordatum Raf. ALISMATACEAE Water Plantain
Alisma trivale Pursh ALISMATACEAE Water Plantain
Alnus serrulata (Ait.) Willd. BETULACEAE Birch Andropogon virginicus L. var. ab. (Hack.) Fern. & Grisc.
POACEAE Grass
Anemone canadensis L. RANUNCULACEAE Buttercup or Crowfoot
Angelica atropurpurea L. APIACEAE Carrot (Umbelliferaceae)
Apios americana Medik. FABACEAE Legume
Arisaema dracontium (L.) Schott ARACEAE Arum
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) ARACEAE Arum
Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl. POACEAE Grass
Asclepias incarnata L. ASCLEPIADACEAE Milkweed
Aster novae-angiale L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Bidens tripartita L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Caltha palustrus L. RANUNCULACEAE Buttercup or Crowfoot
Cephalanthus occidentalis L. RUBIACEAE Madder
Chelone glabra L. SCROPHULARIACEAE Figwort
Conium maculatum L. APIACEAE Carrot (Umbelliferaceae)
Coptis groenlandica L. RANUNCULACEAE Buttercup or Crowfoot
Crateagus viridis L. ROSACEAE Rose
Drosera rotundifolia L. DROSERACEAE Sundew
Dryopteris cristata (L.) Gray POLYPODIACEAE True Ferns
Eupatorium maculatum L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson ROSACEAE Rose
Geum rivale L. ROSACEAE Rose
Helenium autumnale L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Hibiscus moscheutos L. MALVACEAE Mallow
Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv. POACEAE Grass
Impatiens capensis Meerb. BALSAMINACEAE Balsam
Impatiens pallida Nutt. BALSAMINACEAE Balsam
Larix larcinia (Du Roi) K. Koch PINACEAE Pine
Lemna minor L. LEMNACEAE Duckweed
Lobelia cardinalis L. CAMPANULACEAE Bellflower
Lobelia siphilitica L. CAMPANULACEAE Bellflower
Lycopus americanus Muhl. LAMIACEAE Mint
Lycopus virginicus L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Lythrum salicaria L. LYTHRACEAE Loosestrife
Mentha aquatica L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Mentha arvensis L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Mentha spicata L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Mentha piperita L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Menyanthes trifoliata L. MENYANTHACEAE Buckbean
Nuphar advena (Ait.) Ait. F. NYMPHAEACEAE Waterlily
Nymphaea odorata Ait. NYMPHAEACEAE Waterlily
Penthorum sedoides L. SAXIFRAGACEAE Saxifrage Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim.
ROSACEAE Rose
Plantanus occidentalis L. PLATANACEAE Plane tree
Polemonium van-bruntiae Britt. POLEMONIACEAE Phlox
Polygonum hydropiper L. POLYGONACEAE Knotweed
Polygonum pensylvanicum L. POLYGONACEAE Knotweed
Polygonum persicaria L. POLYGONACEAE Knotweed
Populus balsamifera L. SALICACEAE Willow
Ranunculus sceleratus L. RANUNCULACEAE Buttercup or Crowfoot
Ribes americanum P. Mill. GROSSULARIACEAE Gooseberry
Rudbeckia laciniata L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Sagittaria latifolia Willd. ALISMATACEAE Water Plantain
Salix alba L. SALICACEAE Willow
Salix babylonica L. SALICACEAE Willow
Salix caroliniana Michx. SALICACEAE Willow
Salix nigra Marsh. SALICACEAE Willow
Sambucus canadensis L. CAPRIFOLIACEAE Honeysuckle
Sarracania purpurea L. SARRACENIACEAE Pitcher Plant
Saururus cernuus L. SAURURACEAE Lizard Tail
Scutellaria lateriflora L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Senecio aureus L. ASTERACEAE Aster
Spiraea tomentosa L. ROSACEAE Rose
Spiranthes cernua (L.) Richard ORCHIDACEAE Orchid
Stachys palustris L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Symplocarpus foetidus (L.) Nutt. ARACEAE Arum
Teucrium canadense L. LAMIACEAE Mint
Thuja occidentalis L. CUPRESSACEAE Cypress
Typha agustifolia L. TYPHACEAE Cattail
Typha latifolia L. TYPHACEAE Cattail
Ulmus americana L. ULMACEAE Elm
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. ERICACEAE Heath
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. ERICACEAE Heath
Veratrum viride Ait. LILIACEAE Lily
Verbena hastata L. VERBENACEAE Vervain/Verbena
Veronica beccabunga L. SCROPHULARIACEAE Figwort
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marsh. RANUNCULACEAE Buttercup or Crowfoot
GENUS/SPECIES COMMON NAME GROWTH FORM
Acer rubrum L. Red Maple Perennial
Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. Sweet Flag, Calamus Perennial
Alisma subcordatum Raf. Common Water Plantain Perennial
Alisma trivale Pursh Northern Water Plantain Perennial
Alnus serrulata (Ait.) Willd. Streamside Alder Perennial Andropogon virginicus L. var. ab. (Hack.) Fern. & Grisc.
Broomsedge Perennial
Anemone canadensis L. Canada Anemone Perennial
Angelica atropurpurea L. Purple Angelica Biennial
Apios americana Medik. Groundnut Perennial
Arisaema dracontium (L.) Schott Green Dragon/Arum Perennial
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Jack-in-the-Pulpit Perennial
Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl. Giant Cane Perennial
Asclepias incarnata L. Swamp Milkweed Perennial
Aster novae-angiale L. New England Aster Perennial
Bidens tripartita L. Tickseed/Burr Marigold Annual
Caltha palustrus L. Marsh Marigold Perennial
Cephalanthus occidentalis L. Buttonbush Perennial
Chelone glabra L. Turtlehead/Balmony Perennial
Conium maculatum L. Poison Hemlock Biennial
Coptis groenlandica L. Goldthread Perennial
Cratagus viridis L. Hawthorn Perennial
Drosera rotundifolia L. Sundew Perennial
Dryopteris cristata (L.) Gray Crested Shield Fern Perennial
Eupatorium maculatum L. Mottled Joe-Pye Weed Perennial
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. Boneset Perennial
Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson Queen-of-the-Prarie Perennial
Geum rivale L. Purple/Water Avens Perennial
Helenium autumnale L. Yellow Sneezeweed Perennial
Hibiscus moscheutos L. Swamp Rose Mallow Perennial
Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv. Holy Grass/Sweet Grass Perennial
Impatiens capensis Meerb. Spotted Touch-me-Not Annual
Impatiens pallida Nutt. Pale Touch-me-Not Annual
Larix larcinia (Du Roi) K. Koch American Larch/Tamarack Perennial
Lemna minor L. Duckweed Annual
Lobelia cardinalis L. Cardinal Flower Perennial
Lobelia siphilitica L. Great Blue Lobelia Perennial
Lycopus americanus Muhl. Water Horehound Perennial
Lycopus virginicus L. Bugleweed Perennial
Lythrum salicaria L. Spiked Loosestrife Annual
Mentha aquatica L. Mint/Wild mint Perennial
Mentha arvensis L. Wild Mint/Japanese mint Perennial
Mentha spicata L. Spearmint Perennial
Mentha piperita L. Peppermint Perennial
Menyanthes trifoliata L. Buckbean Perennial
Nuphar advena (Ait.) Ait. F. Cowlily, Spadderdock Perennial
Nymphaea odorata Ait. Fragrant Waterlily Perennial
Penthorum sedoides L. Ditch Stonecrop Perennial
Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim. Ninebark Perennial
Plantanus occidentalis L. Sycamore Perennial
Polemonium van-bruntiae Britt. Jacob's Ladder Perennial
Polygonum hydropiper L. Common Smartweed Annual
Polygonum pensylvanicum L. Pennsylvania Smartweed Annual
Polygonum persicaria L. Lady's Thumb Perennial
Populus balsamifera L. Balsam Poplar Perennial
Ranunculus sceleratus L. Cursed Crowfoot Annual
Ribes americanum P. Mill. Wild Black Currant Perennial
Rudbeckia laciniata L. Tall Coneflower Perennial
Sagittaria latifolia Willd. Duck-potato Perennial
Salix alba L. White Willow Perennial
Salix babylonica L. Weeping Willow Perennial
Salix caroliniana Michx. Ward's Willow Perennial
Salix nigra Marsh. Black Willow Perennial
Sambucus canadensis L. Black Elderberry Perennial
Sarracania purpurea L. Pitcher Plant Perennial
Saururus cernuus L. Lizard's Tale Perennial
Scutellaria lateriflora L. Mad-Dog Skullcap Perennial
Senecio aureus L. Golden Ragwort, Squaw Weed Perennial
Spiraea tomentosa L. Hard Hack Perennial
Spiranthes cernua (L.) Richard Nodding Ladies Tresses Perennial
Stachys palustris L. Marsh Woundwort Perennial
Symplocarpus foetidus (L.) Nutt. Skunk Cabbage Perennial
Teucrium canadense L. American Germander Perennial Thuja occidentalis L. Arbor-Vitae, Northern White
Cedar Perennial
Typha agustifolia L. Narrow-leaved Cattail Perennial
Typha latifolia L. Broad-leaved Cattail Perennial
Ulmus americana L. American Elm Perennial
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. Large Cranberry Perennial
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. Small Cranberry Perennial
Veratrum viride Ait. White Hellebore Perennial
Verbena hastata L. Blue Vervain Perennial
Veronica beccabunga L. European Brooklime Perennial
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marsh. Yellowroot Perennial
GENUS/SPECIES TRADITIONAL USES
Acer rubrum L. Menstral problems and childbirth, liver, eye
Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. Stomach ailments, stimulant, antacid
Alisma subcordatum Raf. Kidney stones, bruises and wounds, urinary problems
Alisma trivale Pursh Kidney and Lung ailments
Alnus serrulata (Ait.) Willd. Diuretic, blood purifier, poison ivy
Andropogon virginicus L. var. ab. (Hack.) Fern. & Grisc.
Diarrhea, wash for sores and poison ivy
Anemone canadensis L. Poltice for wounds, nosebleeds
Angelica atropurpurea L. Muscle spasms, gas, stomachaches, loss of appetite
Apios americana Medik. Cancer treatment
Arisaema dracontium (L.) Schott Female disorders
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Asthma, bronchitis, and poultices for sores and rheumatism.
Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl. Stimulate kidneys
Asclepias incarnata L. "Tonic" bath, asthma, worms
Aster novae-angiale L. Diarrhea, fever
Bidens tripartita L. Gout, hematuria, scurvy, toothache
Caltha palustrus L. Snakebite antidote, laxative, lower cholersterol
Cephalanthus occidentalis L. Fevers, malaria, toothache
Chelone glabra L. Worms, liver and digestive disorders
Conium maculatum L. Neuralgia, rheumatism, epileptic cramps, swollen glands, calcification of cerebral vessels
Coptis groenlandica L. Thrush, alcoholism, nausea, jaundice
Crateagus viridis L. Angina pectoris, arteriosclerosis, congestive heart failure, mild arrhythmia
Drosera rotundifolia L. Lung ailments, juice externally for warts and corns
Dryopteris cristata (L.) Gray Intestinal worms
Eupatorium maculatum L. Gout, kidney ailments, fevers
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. Colds and flu, rheumatism, broken bones, stimulates the immune system
Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson Dairrhea, dysentery, stop bleeding
Geum rivale L. Hemorrhage, fevers, indigestion
Helenium autumnale L. Colds, stomach ailments, worms
Hibiscus moscheutos L. Lung and urinary tract ailments
Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv. Stop bleeding after birth, cough, sore throat
Impatiens capensis Meerb. Wounds, bites, sores, poison Ivy treatment
Impatiens pallida Nutt. Wounds, bites, sores, poison Ivy treatment
Larix larcinia (Du Roi) K. Koch Jaundice, gargle for sore throat, sores, bronchitis, fever
Lemna minor L. Upper resperatory inflammation, externally for gout, chronic colds
Lobelia cardinalis L. Stomach ailments, worms, colds, nosebleeds
Lobelia siphilitica L. Stomach ailments, worms, colds, nosebleeds
Lycopus americanus Muhl. Heart palpitations, Grave's disease, thyroid hypofunction and enlargement
Lycopus virginicus L. Heart palpitations, Grave's disease, thyroid hypofunction and enlargement
Lythrum salicaria L. Diarrhea, dysentery, wassh for wounds
Mentha aquatica L. Diarrhea, dysmenorrhea, stomachache, headache
Mentha arvensis L. Diarrhea, dysmenorrhea, stomachache, headache
Mentha spicata L. Nausea, diarrhea, cramps, relieves gas
Mentha piperita L. Stomach ailments, nausea, headaches, insomnia, internal muscle spasms
Menyanthes trifoliata L. Fever, worms, dropsy, loss of appetite, stomach ailments
Nuphar advena (Ait.) Ait. F. Sores and inflammation, heart ailments, blood diseases
Nymphaea odorata Ait. Lung ailments, TB, stop bleeding
Penthorum sedoides L. Vaginitis, diarrhea, bronchitis
Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim. TB, female ailments
Plantanus occidentalis L. Colds, lung ailments, blood purifier
Polemonium van-bruntiae Britt. Eczema, snakebites, fevers
Polygonum hydropiper L. Fevers, internal bleeding and menstral disorders, numb toothache
Polygonum pensylvanicum L. Diarrhea, stop bleeding
Polygonum persicaria L. Heart trouble, kidney stones, poison ivy treatment
Populus balsamifera L. Wash for headaches, sprain, strains, hemorroids
Ranunculus sceleratus L. Skin diseases, swollen muscles and joints
Ribes americanum P. Mill. Kidney ailments, poulticed for swellings
Rudbeckia laciniata L. Indigestion, poulticed with other herbs for burns
Sagittaria latifolia Willd. Indigestion, to stop milk production, wounds, sores, rheumatism
Salix alba L. Arthritis, wash for cuts, ulcers, poison ivy, fever, pain, headaches
Salix babylonica L. Arthritis, wash for cuts, ulcers, poison ivy, fever, pain, headaches
Salix caroliniana Michx. Arthritis, wash for cuts, ulcers, poison ivy, fever, pain, headaches
Salix nigra Marsh. Arthritis, wash for cuts, ulcers, poison ivy, fever, pain, headaches
Sambucus canadensis L. Poulticed on cuts, boils; headaches, stop bleeding, colds and flu
Sarracania purpurea L. Smallpox, lung, liver, spitting up blood
Saururus cernuus L. Wounds, rheumatism, stomach ailments
Scutellaria lateriflora L. Rabies, sedative, nerve tonic, nervous conditions, insomnia, epilepsy
Senecio aureus L. Childbirth, menstral problems, lung ailments
Spiraea tomentosa L. Morning sickness, diarrhea, dysentary
Spiranthes cernua (L.) Richard Urinary disorders, venereal diseases, wash
Stachys palustris L. External wound treatment, internal for cramps,
fever, gout, and menstral
Symplocarpus foetidus (L.) Nutt. Dried root for epilectic seizures, toothache, whooping cough
Teucrium canadense L. Used to induce menstration, lung ailments
Thuja occidentalis L. Cough syrup, congestion, headaches, fungal infections, Herpes simplex
Typha agustifolia L. Kidney stones
Typha latifolia L. Burns, sores and boils
Ulmus americana L. Bark tea for coulds, coughs, diarrhea
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. Compounds prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract wall, scurvy, dysentary
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. Compounds prevent bacteria from adhering to the urinary tract wall, scurvy, dysentary
Veratrum viride Ait. Pain, epilepsy, heart sedative, stimulate blood to kidneys and liver, lowers blood pressure
Verbena hastata L. Female tonic, coughs, fever, stomach cramps
Veronica beccabunga L. Speed healing of ulcers, lessen urination, constipation, lung and liver conditions
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marsh. diabetes, reduce blood pressure, stimulates bile, immuno-stimulant
GENUS/SPECIES MEDICINAL QUALITIES PARTS USED
Acer rubrum L. Astringent, Ophthalmic, Oxytocic Leaves and bark
Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. Carminative, Stimulant, Anticonvulsant, Anti-spasmodic
Rhizomes
Alisma subcordatum Raf. Diuretic Root, dried leaves
Alisma trivale Pursh Diuretic Root
Alnus serrulata (Ait.) Willd. Diuretic, Emetic Stem Bark
Andropogon virginicus L. var. ab. (Hack.) Fern. & Grisc.
Vulnerary Leaves
Anemone canadensis L. Astringent, Styptic Roots, leaves
Angelica atropurpurea L. Antispasmodic, Carminative Roots, leaves, seeds
Apios americana Medik. Phytoestrogens Roots
Arisaema dracontium (L.) Schott Root
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Expectorant, Diaphoretic Root
Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl. Vulnerary Root
Asclepias incarnata L. Diuretic, Carminative, Laxative, Emetic
Root
Aster novae-angiale L. Root
Bidens tripartita L. Diuretic, Diaphoretic, Astringent Whole plant
Caltha palustrus L. Emetic, Expectorant, Antitumor Root, leaves
Cephalanthus occidentalis L. Emetic, Tonic, Diuretic, Astringent Bark
Chelone glabra L. Anthelmintic Leaves
Conium maculatum L. Root
Coptis groenlandica L. Astringent, Anti-inflammatory, Antibiotic
Root
Crateagus viridis L. Cardiotonic, Anti-inflammatory Flowers, leaves, fruits
Drosera rotundifolia L. Spasmolytic, Anti-fungal, Anti-viral, Anti-bacterial
Whole plant
Dryopteris cristata (L.) Gray Anthelmintic Root
Eupatorium maculatum L. Diaphoretic, Diuretic Leaves, root
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. Diaphoretic, Diuretic, Febrifuge, Emetic
Leaves
Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson Astringent Root
Geum rivale L. Astringent, Anti-viral Root
Helenium autumnale L. Anti-tumor, Anthelmintic Florets, leaves
Hibiscus moscheutos L. Emollient, Demulcent Leaves, root
Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv. Hemostatic Leaves
Impatiens capensis Meerb. Antihistamine, Anti-inflammatory Leaves, juice
Impatiens pallida Nutt. Antihistamine, Anti-inflammatory Leaves, juice
Larix larcinia (Du Roi) K. Koch Diuretic, Laxative Bark, gum
Lemna minor L. Gastroprotective Whole plant
Lobelia cardinalis L. Respiratory Stimulant Root, leaves
Lobelia siphilitica L. Respiratory Stimulant Root, leaves
Lycopus americanus Muhl. Sedative, Astringent Whole plant
Lycopus virginicus L. Sedative, Astringent Whole plant
Lythrum salicaria L. Demulcent, Astringent Flowering plant
Mentha aquatica L. Astringent, Stimulant Leaves
Mentha arvensis L. Astringent, Stimulant Leaves
Mentha spicata L. Carminative, Antiseptic, Anti-spasmodic
Leaves
Mentha piperita L. Anti-spasmodic, experimental Anti-viral
Leaves
Menyanthes trifoliata L. Astringent Leaves, root
Nuphar advena (Ait.) Ait. F. Antispasmodic, Vasoconstrictor Root
Nymphaea odorata Ait. Astringent, Antiseptic Root
Penthorum sedoides L. Demulcent, Laxative Seeds, whole plant
Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim.
Emetic, Laxative Bark
Plantanus occidentalis L. Emetic, Laxative Inner Bark
Polemonium van-bruntiae Britt. Emetic, Astringent Root
Polygonum hydropiper L. Styptic, Analgesic, Diuretic Leaves
Polygonum pensylvanicum L. Styptic, Analgesic, Diuretic Leaves, tops
Polygonum persicaria L. Diuretic Leaves
Populus balsamifera L. Antibacterial, Expectorant Leaf buds, root, bark
Ranunculus sceleratus L. Stimulant Leaves
Ribes americanum P. Mill. Vulnerary, Tonic Root bark
Rudbeckia laciniata L. Vulnerary, Tonic Root, flowers, leaves
Sagittaria latifolia Willd. Digestive, Vulnerary Tubers, leaves
Salix alba L. Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Vulnerary
bark
Salix babylonica L. Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Vulnerary
bark
Salix caroliniana Michx. Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Vulnerary
bark
Salix nigra Marsh. Anti-inflammatory, Anti-pyretic, Vulnerary
bark
Sambucus canadensis L. Diuretic, Emetic, Laxative, Vulnerary
Flowers, berries, inner bark, leaves
Sarracania purpurea L. Diuretic, Tonic, Laxative Roots, leaves
Saururus cernuus L. Anti-inflammatory, Sedative, Vulnerary
Roots, leaves
Scutellaria lateriflora L. Sedative, Anti-spasmodic Leaves
Senecio aureus L. Oxytocic Leaves, roots
Spiraea tomentosa L. Anti-emetic Leaves, flowers
Spiranthes cernua (L.) Richard Diuretic, Vulnerary Whole plant
Stachys palustris L. Disinfectant, Antispasmodic,Vulnerary
Fresh or dried herb
Symplocarpus foetidus (L.) Nutt. Anti-spasmodic, Diuretic Root
Teucrium canadense L. Anti-spasmodic, Diuretic, Emmenagogue
Leaves
Thuja occidentalis L. Antiseptic, Anti-viral, Expectorant Leaves, inner bark, leaf oil
Typha agustifolia L. Anti-inflammatory Root, seed down
Typha latifolia L. Anti-inflammatory, Vulnerary Root, seed down
Ulmus americana L. Demulcent Inner Bark
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. Antiseptic, Urinary deodorant Fruits
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. Antiseptic, Urinary deodorant Fruits
Veratrum viride Ait. Analgesic, Vasodilator Root
Verbena hastata L. Emetic, Tonic Leaves, root
Veronica beccabunga L. Diuretic, Expectorant Flowering plant
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marsh. Anti-inflammatory, Astringent, Hemostatic
Root
GENUS/SPECIES NOTES
Acer rubrum L. Other members of this genus have been used for medicinal purposes. (Foster and Duke). Native indian tribes used the boiled inner bark as an eye wash (Smith).
Acorus americanus (Raf.) Raf. Native Americans would chew the root on a long journey for endurance. (Tierra). Mixed with dried White Water Lily (Nymphaea odonata) to treat diabetes by the Ojibway; also used to treat high cholesterol (Raven).
Alisma subcordatum Raf. Cherokee also used the root to treat the bowels (Oklahoma Biological Survey).
Alisma trivale Pursh Other members of this genus have been used in Chinese medicine and are well studied. (Foster and Duke).
Alnus serrulata (Ait.) Willd. Used for malaria and syphilis in the 1800's.(9) Chewed bark was used in Appalachia for ulcers and wounds. (Krochmal et. al.).
Andropogon virginicus L. var. ab. (Hack.) Fern. & Grisc.
Anemone canadensis L. Thought to have mystical qualities among the Plains Indians. (9)
Angelica atropurpurea L. The boiled stems covered in sugar is a delicacy. (6)
Apios americana Medik. An important food source for Native Americans with 3 times the protein of potatoes. Associates with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. (9)
Arisaema dracontium (L.) Schott Fresh whole plant contain calcium oxalate which causes an intense burning sensation, must be dries and processed before it is considered edible. (9)
Arisaema triphyllum (L.) Fresh whole plant contain calcium oxalate which causes an intense burning sensation, must be dries and processed before it is considered edible. (9)
Arundinaria gigantea (Walt.) Muhl.
Ergot fungus infects this plant, so attention must be paid when harvesting. (9) An important native grass where it is allowed to grow to large stands. (13)
Asclepias incarnata L. Potentially toxic, use with care. (9)
Aster novae-angiale L. American Indian uses. (9)
Bidens tripartita L. Roots also used for scorpion bites. (12)
Caltha palustrus L. Ojibwas Indians mixed the tea with maple syrup for cough syrup. (9) This plant can be toxic in large doses, but it is less toxic than other members of this family. (12)
Cephalanthus occidentalis L. Leaves have poisoned grazing animals. (9)
Chelone glabra L. Available in homeopathic dilutions. (12)
Conium maculatum L. Extremely poisonous, do not use. (9)
Coptis groenlandica L. [Coptis trifolia (L.) Salisb. Spp. groenlandica (Oeder) Hulten]Roots are literally threads and difficult to harvest in quantity. (9) Substitited for Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis).
Crateagus viridis L. Approved by the German Commission E, with > 14 controlled clinical trials. (9, 12)
Drosera rotundifolia L. D. ramentacea approved by German Commission E
for the treatment of coughs and bronchitis. (12)
Dryopteris cristata (L.) Gray Also used to clear chest congestion. (9)
Eupatorium maculatum L. Treated typhus fever by inducing sweating. (9)
Eupatorium perfoliatum L. Large doses can have a laxitive effect. (9, 12, 14)
Filipendula rubra (Hill) Robinson Anti-inflammatory drugs can be toxic. Precursor to Salicylic acid. (9)
Geum rivale L. Many species of Geum have the same medicinal properties. (9)
Helenium autumnale L. The lactone Helenalin is poisonous to fishes, worms and insects. (9)
Hibiscus moscheutos L. Related species have been used in the same manner (9).
Hierochloe odorata (L.) Beauv. Coumarin, a possible carcinogen is found in the roots. (9)
Impatiens capensis Meerb. Also used as a Poison Ivy preventative
Impatiens pallida Nutt. Uses same as I. capensis
Larix larcinia (Du Roi) K. Koch L. decidua approved by German Commission E for blood pressure, fever, bronchitis, Inflammation of the mouth. (12)
Lemna minor L. Gastroproctective effect found in polysaccharides from L. minor.
Lobelia cardinalis L. Potentially toxic, use with care. (9) L. inflata used more prevalently for these ailments. (12)
Lobelia siphilitica L. Potentially toxic, use with care. (9) L. inflata used more prevalently for these ailments. (12)
Lycopus americanus Muhl. Lycopus spp. known as water horehounds in some books. (9)
Lycopus virginicus L. Approved for thyroid treatment, nervousness, insomnia, and PMS by German Commission E. (9,12)
Lythrum salicaria L. Stops bleeding in experiments and shows anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory activity. (9)
Mentha aquatica L. Listed as Mentha canadensis or Canadian Mint in some texts. (9)
Mentha arvensis L. Listed as Mentha canadensis or Canadian Mint in some texts. (9)
Mentha spicata L. Concentrated oil can be toxic if taken internally in larger doses. (9)
Mentha piperita L. Experimantal treatments for herpes, Newcastle's disease, and other virusus are underway. Treatment for IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome) (9)
Menyanthes trifoliata L. Fresh plant causes vomiting. (9)
Nuphar advena (Ait.) Ait. F. Large doses can be toxic. (9)
Nymphaea odorata Ait. Large doses can be toxic. (9)
Penthorum sedoides L. American Indians used the seeds in cough syrup. (9)
Physocarpus opulifolius (L.) Maxim.
Potentially toxic. (9)
Plantanus occidentalis L.
Polemonium van-bruntiae Britt. American Indians used this to enhance the effects of Mayapple (Podophyllum peltatumL.); this plant is used the same as P. reptans, lists reflect the uses of this plant. (9)
Polygonum hydropiper L. American Indians used it to prevent children from sucking
their thumb. (9)
Polygonum pensylvanicum L.
Polygonum persicaria L. Tops were used to treat epilepsy. (9)
Populus balsamifera L. Extracts stimulate wound healing, unopened leaf buds approved for use in Germany. (9)
Ranunculus sceleratus L. Extremely poisonous, do not use. (9)
Ribes americanum P. Mill. Other members ot this genus have seeds that contain gamma linolenic acid. (9)
Rudbeckia laciniata L. Cooked spring greens are thought to have a tonic effect. (9)
Sagittaria latifolia Willd. Tubers are eaten like potatoes; some arrowheads cause dermatitis (9).
Salix alba L. Prostaglandin synthesis in the sensory nerves are inhibited to relieve pain (9).
Salix babylonica L. Used same as White Willow (9).
Salix caroliniana Michx. Used same as White Willow (9).
Salix nigra Marsh. Used same as White Willow (9).
Sambucus canadensis L. Used extensively and effectively for the treatment of colds and flu, reduces fever and increases bronchial secretions (9).
Sarracania purpurea L.
Saururus cernuus L. American indians used this especially for breast ailments, thusly it is also called "breastweed" (9).
Scutellaria lateriflora L. The name maddog skullcap comes from its use in the treatment of rabies (9).
Senecio aureus L. Ragworts contain highly toxic alkaloids (9).
Spiraea tomentosa L.
Spiranthes cernua (L.) Richard Related species have been used in the same manner (9).
Stachys palustris L. No information on internal dosages, poultice for external treatments (12).
Symplocarpus foetidus (L.) Nutt. Roots considered toxic, eating leaves can cause i nflammation (9).
Teucrium canadense L. Other members of this genus have proved highly toxic to the liver (9).
Thuja occidentalis L. LEAF OIL is toxic, but shows anti-viral properties against Herpes simplex. (9).
Typha agustifolia L. Both species of Typha are used as human food (9).
Typha latifolia L. Both species of Typha are used as human food (9).
Ulmus americana L. Used mainly by Native Americans (9).
Vaccinium macrocarpon Ait. Both species of Vaccinium are used the same, and both are a food source (9).
Vaccinium oxycoccos L. Both species of Vaccinium are used the same, and both are a food source (9).
Veratrum viride Ait. All parts of the plant are extremely toxic; powdered root used in insecticides (9).
Verbena hastata L. Roots more active than leaves (9).
Veronica beccabunga L. Also used to treat bleeding gums, properties are not well studied(12). Acubin, an antioxidant, and liver protectant can be toxic to grazing animals (9).
Xanthorhiza simplicissima Marsh. Can be toxic in high doses (9).
Analgesic Relieves pain.
Anthelmintic Used to expel intestinal worms.
Anti-bacterial Halts the growth of bacterial infections.
Antibiotic Stops the growth of micro-organisms.
Anti-convulsant An agent to control or prevent seizures.
Anti-emetic Reduces vomiting.
Anti-fungal Arrests the growth or spread of fungus.
Anti-histamine Treats allergic reactions by blocking histamine interaction with tissue.
Anti-inflammatory Reduces tissue inflammation.
Anti-pyretic Reduces fever.
Antiseptic Used to inhibit the growth of micro-organisms.
Anti-spasmodic Used to relieve or manage spasms.
Anti-tumor Used to halt the growth of tumors.
Anti-viral Treats the spread of viral infections.
Astringent Chemicals that contract organic tissue, reducing secretions.
Carminative Used for expelling gas from the intestines.
Cardiotonic Used to strengthen the function of the heart.
Demulcent Soothes inflamed tissue, especially that of the mucus membranes.
Diaphoretic Causes perspiration.
Digestive Promotes digestion.
Disinfectant Hinders the growth of infection causing micro-organisms
Diuretic Increases urination.
Emetic Induces vomiting.
Emollient Used externally to soften and smooth the skin.
Emmenagogue Promotes menstruation.
Expectorant Assists the expulsion of mucus from the respiratory system.
Febrifuge Reduces fever.
Gastroprotective Protects the digestive system.
Hemostatic Stops bleeding.
Laxative Used to purge the bowels.
Ophthalmic Used to treat the eye.
Oxytocic Speeds up childbirth by stimulating contractions of the uterine wall.
Phytoestrogens Plant chemicals that mimic the body’s natural estrogen.
Respiratory stimulant Speeds up physiological processes within the respiratory system.
Sedative Used to reduce nervousness and irritation.
Spasmolytic Relieves convulsions or spasms.
Stimulant Speeds up physiological processes.
Styptic Used to contract tissue, especially blood vessels to stop bleeding.
Tonic Strengthens the function of the internal organs.
Urinary deodorant Used to reduce micro-organisms thusly reducing odor in the urinary system.
Vasoconstrictor Raises blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels.
Vasodilator Reduces blood pressure by widening blood vessels.
Vulnerary Applied to treat and heal wounds.
Definitions
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