Pleurisy Root

COMMON NAME

Standardized: pleurisy root
Other: Butterfly Weed, wind root, Canada root, silkweed, orange swallow wort, tuber root

BOTANICAL NAME

Asclepias tuberosa L.
Plant Family: Asclepiadaceae

INTRODUCTION

Pleurisy weed is better known in parts of the country as butterfly weed. The plant is a variety of milkweed native to eastern North America. It's a popular plant in country gardens, and is known to attract butterflies, particularly monarchs. It has been used medicinally by a number of Native American tribes for centuries. Much of the plant is edible, including the young shoots, flower buds and stems. The milkweed fibers can be used to make fabric or rope. Pleurisy weed does have a darker side, however. The alkaloids it contains include some that can be toxic in the mature plant. It is considered toxic to livestock, and not recommended for use by pregnant or breastfeeding women, or for children.

CONSTITUENTS

Resinoids, glycosides, and a small amount of alkaloids

PARTS USED

Root and sometimes the leaves and plant

TYPICAL PREPARATIONS

In tea infusions, as an extract and very seldom in capsules.

PRECAUTIONS

Specific: Not for use in pregnancy except under the supervision of a qualified healthcare practitioner.
General: We recommend that you consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.