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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