Rhus trilobata

Rhus trilobata
Family:Rhus trilobata; Analgesic; Antipruritic; Astringent; Contraceptive; Deodorant; Diuretic; Emetic; Haemostatic; Odontalgic; Oxytoxic; Stomachic.
Common name:Skunk bush
Skunk bush was employed medicinally by several native North American Indian tribes who valued it especially for its astringent qualities and used it to treat a range of complaints. It is little if at all used in modern herbalism. Due to its potentially toxic nature it should be used with some caution and preferably only under the supervision of a qualified practitioner. The fruit is analgesic astringent and stomachic. It has been eaten as a treatment for stomach problems and grippe. The dried berries have been ground into a powder and dusted onto smallpox pustules. The fruit has been chewed as a treatment for toothache and also used as a mouthwash. A decoction of the fruit has been used as a wash to prevent the hair falling out. The leaves are astringent diuretic emetic and haemostatic. An infusion of the leaves has been used in the treatment of head colds. A decoction of the leaves has been drunk to induce impotency as a method of contraception. A poultice of leaves has been used to treat itches. An infusion of the bark has been used as a douche after childbirth. The bark has been chewed and the juice swallowed as a treatment for colds and sore gums. A decoction of the root bark has been taken to facilitate easy delivery of the placenta. The roots have been used as a deodorant. The buds have been used on the body as a medicinal deodorant and perfume.

Herbal Database

01.01.2005 05:35 []