Bistort Herb

LATIN NAME:

Polygonum bistort

Bistort herb is also known as Adderwort, Dragonwort, Easter Giant, English Sepentary, Osterick, Passions, Polygonum Bistorta, Patience Dock, Red Legs, Snakeweed and Sweet Dock.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The Bistort herb is a hardy perennial with a number of tuberous roots that produce an S-shaped root stock. It has slender stems that grow up to 30 inches in height and have a cluster of tiny white or pinkish flowers.

The flower stalk is 12 to 18 inches high and are grouped in twos. The flowers are produced in May and June and then again in September and October. The fruit of the plant is three seeded and when ripe are small, brown and shiny.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* diarrhea

* dysentery

* peptic ulcers

* ulcerative colitis

* irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

* reducing heavy menstrual bleeding

Use as a gargle for:

* laryngitis

* pharyngitis

* spongy gums

* canker sores

* sore throats

Use as a douche for:

* excessive vaginal discharge

Use externally for:

* treating burns

* wounds

* hemorrhoids

* fissures

PREPARATION AND DOSAGE:

Over the counter:

Bistort is available in various forms at health food stores and is also an ingredient in many products.

Tincture: Take 2-4 ml 3 times a day or follow recommended dosage on container.

At home:

Decoction: Pour one cup of water onto 1 teaspoonful of the dried herb, bring this to a boil and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink this three times a day. This can also be used as a gargle.

Parts used: Rootstock and rhizome

Collection: Roots and rhizome are dug up in the Fall.

Constituents: Tannins

Actions: Astringent, ant-catarrhal, demulcent, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary

SIDE EFFECTS: This herb, when taken in the recommended doses, is considered safe.