Labiatae

Habitat: Canada.

Collection: Roots and rhizome are unearthed in the autumn.

Part Used: Root and rhizome.

Constituents: * Essential oil * Tannins * Saponins * Alkaloid *Resins * Organic acid

Actions: Anti-lithic, diuretic, diaphoretic.

Indications: As its name suggests, Stone Root finds its main use in thetreatment and prevention of stone and gravel in the urinarysystem and the gall-bladder. It can be used as a prophylactic but is alsoexcellent when the body is in need of help in passing stones of gravel. It isalso a strong diuretic.

Ellingwood gives the following symptomatology: "In piles with a senseof fullness, or of a foreign body in the rectum, in all relaxed conditions ofthe mucous membranes of the lower bowel, Collinsonia is the remedy. It works more promptly if there is a passive congestion with blueness or dark coloration of the membranes, showing imperfect venous capillary circulation.Collinsonia is given where there is a sensation of constriction, heat and weight in the rectum; where there is deficient secretion from imperfect capillary circulation in the mucous membranes, the patient passing the feces in the form of dry scybala."

In his extensive monograph, Ellingwood gives the following indications: "Hemorrhoids, catarrhal gastritis, pain in the rectum, hearttonic, rheumatic inflammation, laryngitis, pharyngitis,clergyman's sore throat, dysentery, ulcers, fistula,inflammation of the middle ear, acute cystitis, vaginismus.

Combinations: For urinary stone and gravel, it may be combined with Parsley Pier, Gravel Root, Peltry of the Wall or Hydrangea.

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried root in a cup of water, bring to boiling and simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.

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