Stillingia sylvatica
| Queen's root Stillingia sylvatica |
Queen's root - Stillingia sylvatica (in the Euphorbiaceae or Spurge family)
Part used: Fresh root.
Taste/smell: Acrid.
Tendencies: Stimulating.
Dosage: Infusion: 1 teaspoon per cup of water, infused 25 minutes; or 1:1.4 fresh strength liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-3 tim
es per day.
Mental picture and specific indications: Queen's root is indicated for chronic laryngeal irritation, enlarged cervical lymphatic nodes and congested lymphatics in general. It is specific for red, glistening mucous membranes with scanty secretion. The tongue has a white or yellow coating. There is a feeling of gloom, foreboding and dull mindedness. Symptoms are worse in afternoons, damp air and with motion and better in the morning and dry air.
Use: (a) Lymphagogue, (b) Alterative, (c) Emetic, (d) Cathartic.
Queen's root promotes secretory activity of mucous membranes and removal of catabolic wastes. It is indicated for tonsillitis, laryngitis, croup, mastitis, congested lymphatic system and chronic rheumatism. Externally, it is used as a fresh poultice or in oil-form for mastitis and swollen lymph nodes. An alcohol extract of queen's root was shown to reduce tumor growth in mice with RC mammary carcinoma transplants. It contains diterpene esters.
Contraindications: This fresh plant can be toxic when used internally in excessive doses. Toxic symptoms are gastroenteritis, bile-filled diarrhea, vomiting, tachycardia, muscular weakness and prostration. It is contraindicated in pregnancy.