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Sassafras
Bark of the Root
(Sassafras
officinal)
COMMON NAMES: Ague tree, cinnamon wood, saxifrax.
MEDICINAL PART: Bark.
DESCRIPTION: Sassafras is a native North American deciduous tree, which can be found in wilds from Ontario to Michigan, and south to Florida and Texas. In places, it is also grown as an ornamental. The stem, which is usually 10 to 40 feet high but sometimes reaches to 125 feet, is covered with rough, grayish bark. The leaves are alternate, downy on the lower side, and variable in shape from ovate to elliptic, entire or three-lobed. The small, yellowish-green flowers grow in racemes, blooming before the leaves appear. The fruit is a pea-sized, yellowish-green drupe.
Often called a spring medicine to purify the blood and cleanse the entire system. Good to flavor other herbs, which have a disagreeable taste, and much used in combination with other blood-purifying herbs. Useful as a tonic to stomach and bowels. Will relieve gas. Taken warm, is an excellent remedy for spasms. Valuable in colic, and all skin diseases and eruptions. Good wash for inflamed eyes. Good for kidneys, bladder, chest, and throat troubles. Oil of sassafras is excellent for toothache. Good in varicose ulcers. Wash externally and ache internally.
PROPERTIES AND USES: Anodyne, antiseptic, diaphoretic, diuretic, stimulant. A hot infusion of sassafras bark makes a good “blood purifier,” promoting perspiration and urination. It has therefore been recommended for rheumatism, gout, arthritis, and skin problems. For the latter, as for various ulcers, combined internal and external use is recommended. The bark of the roots contains a volatile oil that has anodyne and antiseptic properties. It has been used in the past as a pain reliever and to treat venereal disease. American Indians used and infusion of sassafras roots to bring down a fever. Sassafras tea has also had its day as a popular tonic drink.
PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:
Infusion: Steep 1 tsp. bark in 1-cup water. Take 1 cup a day.
Tincture:
A dose is 15 to 30 drops.
The Herb Book by
John Lust
Back To Eden by
Jethro Kloss
