herb data, Grindelia, Grindelia spp., Gum Plant, Gum Weed, Tar Weed, holisticonline.com

Herb Information

Name: Grindelia

Biological Name: Grindelia spp.

Compositae

Other Names: Grindelia, Gum Plant, Gum Weed, Tar Weed

Parts Used: Dried aerial parts

Active Compounds:

	Diterpenes of the grindelane type, including grindelic acid and its 17- hydroxy derivative, l3-isogrindelic acid, l7-grindeloxygrindelic acid and many others
	Flavonoids; including acacetin, kumatakenin, quercitin and its 3,3- dimethyl ether derivative
	Resins.

Remedies For:

Anti-spasmodic, expectorant, hypotensive.

Grindelia acts to relax smooth muscles and heart muscles. Useful in the treatment of asthmatic and bronchial conditions, especially where these are associated with a rapid heart beat and nervous response. It may be used in asthma, bronchitis, whooping cough and upper respiratory catarrh. Because of the relaxing effect on the heart and pulse rate, there may be a reduction in blood pressure. Externally the lotion is used in the dermatitis caused by poison ivy.

Combinations : In the treatment of asthmatic conditions it may be used with Lobelia and Pill-bearing Spurge.

Description:

Found in the USA and S. America.

Dosage:

Infusion: pour a cup of boiling water onto l teaspoonful of the dried herb and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

Tincture: take 1-2ml of the tincture three times a day.

Safety:

No information available. Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.