Description
Eupatorium perfoliatum
Hardy perennial medicinal herb of the daisy family, native to many parts of the eastern USA and Canada. It is also known as Feverwort, Agueweed and Thoroughwort, is one of the most popular home remedies in North America where a tea of the dried leaves and flowers is used in the treatment of influenza, colds, acute bronchitis and catarrh. It has been shown to stimulate resistance to viral and bacterial infections, and reduces fevers by encouraging sweating. M. Stuart’s Encyclopedia of Herbs and Herbalism (1979) states that this herb is practically unequalled in its effectiveness against colds. (As with all medicinal herbs, caution is advised – in this case large doses are laxative and emetic and the plant may contain potentially liver-harming alkaloids.) It has also been used in the treatment of rheumatic illness, skin conditions and worms plus dengue fever and malaria – the common name boneset apparently derives from the plant’s historical use in treating dengue fever which is also known as breakbone.
Boneset will be happy in full sun or part shade in most garden soils as long as there is some moisture – it is found naturally in low-lying damp areas. Height 1m when in flower. Flowers attract butterflies. May be toxic to stock.
Certified organic plant in 9cm pot.