Since ancient times, the North American Indians have known about horseweed’s benefits for treating uterine bleeding and excessive menstruation. In Europe, its essence was used during the First World War as a hemostatic substance to stop hemorrhaging. A highly appreciated plant in the United States and Canada, it is becoming more well-known and used throughout Europe.
Horseweed Scientific Facts
- Scientific Name – Erigeron canadensis L.
- Other Names – Canadian fleabane.
- French – Vergerette du Canada.
- Spanish – Erígeron.
- Environment – Native to North America, it was brought to Europe in the 17th century and quickly spread. The plant is also known in South America. It grows on unfarmed lands, roadsides, and slopes.
- Description—A herbaceous plant of the Compositae family, it can grow up to one meter high and has many elongated and narrow leaves and white-creamy-colored flowers.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally – The leaves.
Horseweed Benefits
The whole plant contains tannins, resins, flavonoids, gallic acid, and choline, besides an essential oil (oil of fleabane) consisting of limonene, dipentene, and terpineol. Horseweed has the following properties.
- Hemostatic: It is mainly used to stop excessive or prolonged menstruation. It is also effective in some cases of hematuria (blood in the urine). It is worth remembering that a physician must check out any abnormal bleeding.
- Antidiarrheic: It stops simple diarrhea but is also helpful for dysentery (diarrhea accompanied by mucus and blood) and typhoid fever.
- Diuretic and antirheumatic: The plant aids in the elimination of uric acid in the urine, so it is recommended for gout, hyperuricemia (an excess of uric acid), and kidney lithiasis (kidney stones).
How to use Horseweed
- Infusion or decoction with a tablespoon of dried leaves per cup of water. Drink two or three cups a day.
- Dry extract: The usual dosage is one or two grams daily, distributed over two or three intakes.
- Enema, with the same infusion or decoction, is employed for internal use.
Frequently Asked Question
What are the primary active compounds in horseweed?
The plant contains several potentially beneficial compounds, including:
1. Flavonoids: Plant-based antioxidants like quercetin and kaempferol.
2. Terpenes: Including limonene, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.
3. Tannins: Compounds that can act as astringents.
Is horseweed traditionally used in herbal medicine?
What are the potential diuretic effects of horseweed?
The plant’s custom use as a diuretic suggests it could increase urine production. Some studies support this, but more human research is needed.
Can horseweed be used for wound healing?
Animal and laboratory studies indicate it might promote wound healing due to its probable antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
Does horseweed have any antioxidant properties?
Yes. The flavonoids in horseweed act as antioxidants, potentially protecting cells from damage initiated by free radicals.
Are there studies supporting the use of horseweed for respiratory issues?
Limited animal and laboratory studies hint at potential benefits in easing respiratory discomfort.
How is horseweed typically consumed?
Common preparations include:
1. Tea: Infusing dried leaves and flowers
2. Tincture: Extracting compounds with alcohol
3. Topical application: Using infused oils or poultices (consult a healthcare professional before applying topically)
What are the impending side effects of using horseweed?
While generally considered safe in moderation, some potential side effects include:
1. Stomach upset
2. Allergic responses in people allergic to plants in the Asteraceae family (like daisies)
3. Possible interactions with certain medications – always consult your doctor
Is horseweed safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?
Not enough is known about its safety. It’s best to avoid horseweed during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Where can I find reliable information about using horseweed medicinally?
Always consult an authorized healthcare professional before using horseweed. Reliable resources include:
1. Your doctor or a naturopathic practitioner
2. Evidence-based websites like the National Institutes of Health https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/
3. Reputable herbal medicine databases
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. “Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants.” George D. Pamplona-Roger, M.D. Encyclopedia of Medicinal Plants. Ed. Francesc X. Gelabert. Vols. 1 San Fernando de Henares: Editorial Safeliz, 2000. 268. Print.
- National Institutes of Health (NIH): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13495152/
- NIH: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29427589/
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-217/tannic-acid
- USDA Plants Database: https://plants.sc.egov.usda.gov/home/plantProfile?symbol=AQCA
- ResearchGate: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/370756833_Phytochemistry_and_biological_activity_of_Erigeron_annuus_L_Pers
- NIH: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/13495152/
- NIH: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7307852/
- NIH: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33187049/
- NIH: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9676459/