The Osha Herb

(Western Herb)

Ligusticum porteri

The Osha herb is also known as Chuchupate, Indian parsley, Colorado cough root, Life root, Porter’s lovage, Mountain lovage, Bear root, and Bear medicine.

GENERAL DESCRIPTION AND INFORMATION:

The Osha herb is a perennial that is native to the Rocky Mountains of North America. It grows in rich, moist soil in upland meadows and ravines in altitudes up to 10,000 feet.

The plant has glossy, toothed compound leaves and greenish-yellow flowers. The plant has the same long thin hollow stalks like parsley and dill (all members of the umbelliferae family) that can reach to heights of 2 to 3 feet.

The Osha root is very hairy and brown on the outside and yellow on the inside and is the part that is used in herbal medicine. The herb has a camphor like scent due to its essential oil. It is the oil that is responsible for its healing properties.

Because Osha root has strong antiviral properties, it should be taken at the first sign of a cold or flu. The herb is extremely beneficial and effective combined with Echinacea against the increase of white blood cells, which is usually indicative of an impending infection.

TARGET AILMENTS:

Take internally for:

* bronchitis

* cold

* irritating coughs

* pneumonia

* influenza

* fevers

* sinusitis

* pharyngitis

* toothache

* rhinitis

* arthritis

* carpal tunnel syndrome

* upset stomach

* nausea with vomiting

* gastrointestinal discomfort

* indigestion

Apply externally for:

* skin wounds

PREPARATIONS:

Osha root is available as a tincture, extract, powder, and bulk herb.

Most of the Osha herb cold and flu over-the-counter formulas are combined with Echinacea and Goldenseal.

The herb can be used as an infusion and tea.

Parts used: Root

Constituents: Terpenes, lactone glycoside, saponins, ferulic acid, phytosterols, volatile oils, essential oils

Actions: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-microbial, anaesthetic, antiviral, expectorant, diaphoretic, diuretic, decongestant, stimulant, carminative, emmenogogue

SAFETY AND SIDE EFFECTS:

* Do not take Osha for extended periods of time, take a week-long break every couple of months.

* Osha root should not be used during pregnancy, because large amounts may cause uterine contractions.

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