Gravel Root

Eupatorium purpureum

Gravel Root Joe Pye Weed Parts used Uses Habitat and cultivation Constituents How much to take Applications Collection and harvesting Combinations

Gravel root - erect perennial growing to 5 ft (1.5 m). Gravel root has whorls of pointed oblong leaves and clusters of purple-pink florets.

The plant's alternative name, Joe Pye weed, is in honor of the Native American said to have used it to cure New Englanders of typhus. Native Americans used gravel root as a diuretic and for conditions affecting the genitourinary system. Gravel root was listed in the Pharmacopoeia of the United States from 1820 to 1842.

PARTS USED

Aerial parts, rhizome, root.

USES

As its common name indicates, gravel root is a valuable herb for urinary tract problems. Gravel root helps to prevent the formation of kidney and bladder stones and may diminish existing stones. Gravel root is also useful for cystitis, urethritis, prostate enlargement (and other forms of obstruction), and for rheumatism and gout. The root is thought to help the latter two conditions by increasing the removal of waste by the kidneys.

HABITAT AND CULTIVATION

Gravel root is native to eastern North America. The root is unearthed in autumn.

CONSTITUENTS

Gravel root contains tannins, bitter principle, flavonoids, sesquiterpene lactones.

HOW MUCH TO TAKE

Decoction: put 1 teaspoonful of gravel root in a cup of water, bring to the boil and simmer for 10 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture: take 1 - 2 ml of the tincture three times a day.

APPLICATIONS

AERIAL PARTS:

INFUSION - Drink for rheumatic pains  and arthritis. A stronger infusion is purgative for liver stagnation and some types of constipation.

TINCTURE - Take 5 drops as required for feverish colds and influenza. Add to phlegm-reducing mixtures, with herbs such as elder flower and ground ivy.

ROOT:

DECOCTION - Use for menstrual pain, or sip during labor. Also has a cleansing effect for persistent urinary infections.

TINCTURE - Take 2 - 3 ml, three times a day, for urinary disorders such as cystitis and gravel, or discharges caused by infection. Use with white dead nettle for prostate problems.

COLLECTION AND HARVESTING

The root and rhizome should be dug up in the autumn after the plant has stopped flowering. Wash thoroughly, slice and dry.

COMBINATIONS

For kidney stones or gravel gravel root combines well with parsley piert, pellitory of the wall or hydrangea.