The gum plant contains phenolic and flavonic substances, which give it antispasmodic properties, as well as saponins, to which it owes its expectorant properties. The resin of the gum plant is formed by terpene acids, among which the most important is the grindelic acid, with antitussive, antispasmodic, and bradycardic (slows the heartbeat rate) properties.
The use of the gum plant is recommended for the following:
- Bronchial asthma because of its expectorant and antispasmodic effect.
- Acute bronchitis and bronchial catarrh, since it soothes the respiratory mucous membrane and promotes their regeneration.
- Whooping cough and persistent bronchial cough because of its antitussive properties.
- Heart arrhythmia, especially tachycardia.
WARNING! When taken in high doses, the gum plant has toxic effects and can even produce heart failure.
Gum Plant Scientific Facts
- Other names: August flower, gumweed, resin-weed.
- French: Grindelia.
- Spanish: Grindelia.
- Environment: Native to the northwest American coast, it grows in salty soils and marshes. Very common in California.
- Description: Vivacious plant of the Compositae family, growing up to 80 cm high, with flower clusters resembling those of daisies. Its stem and leaves are impregnated with a sticky resin. The plant has a soothing aroma and mildly sour taste.
- Parts of the plant used medicinally: The flower clusters.
How to use Gum Plant
- Infusion with a teaspoonful of flower clusters per cup of water. The usual dose for adults is three cups a day and for children half the adult dose.
- Syrup: It is usually prepared in pharmacies with 5% of fluid extract. Drink two or three spoonfuls a day.
Another Gum Plant Species
Besides the species robusta, there is another species of gum plant with the same medicinal properties: Grindelia squarrosa Pursch. Both of them are native to the Pacific coast of North America; however, their interesting properties have made them famous outside the United States, and at present, they can be found in many herb shops worldwide.
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. 310. Print.
