Collinsonia canadensis
| Stone root Collinsonia canadensis |
Stone root - Collinsonia canadensis (in the Lamiaceae or Mint family)
Part used: Root.
Taste/smell: Astringent.
Tendencies: Neutral to cooling, drying.
Dosage: Decoction: 1-2 teaspoons of herb per cup of water; or 1:4 dry strength liquid extract: 20-60 drops 1-4 times per day.
Mental picture and specific indications: Stone root is indicated for portal congestion causing constipation, hemorrhoids, chronic nasal, gastric and pharyngeal catarrh. The individual may suffer from a dull frontal headache, yellow-coated tongue and itching anus. Symptoms are worse from the slightest emotion or excitement and from cold and better from heat.
Use: (a) Alterative, (b) Diuretic, (c) Astringent, (d) Stimulates and tones the alimentary mucous membranes.
Stone root is suitable for atonic conditions. Since it is vasocontracting to the portal system, stone root is indicated for pelvic or rectal congestion secondary to portal back-pressure and venous stasis. It is used for gastroenteritis with diarrhea, hemorrhoids and laryngeal inflammation. The root has long been used for hemorrhoids, specifically in patients with hard dry stools or alternating constipation and diarrhea.
Contraindications: Stone root causes emesis if the aerial parts are used.