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What is Collinsonia Canadensis?

Deborah Walker
Deborah Walker

Collinsonia canadensis is a perennial herb in the Lamiaceae, or mint, family. It is native to North America. The herb has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. The roots are used to treat a variety of conditions, including gastrointestinal and circulatory problems. More research is needed to determine if it is an effective remedy. This herb may interact with some medications and may cause side effects if taken at a high dose.

This plant is also known as stone root, richweed, heal-all, horseweed, ox-balm, Canada horsebalm, and hardhack. It grows wild east of the Mississippi River in North America. Collinsonia canadensis prefers rich soil with a pH content between 6.8 and 7.2, which is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline. The plant does best in partial shade.

The collinsonia canadensis herb can be used to treat gastrointestinal issues.
The collinsonia canadensis herb can be used to treat gastrointestinal issues.

The knotted, tough roots of the plant are used medicinally. They are difficult to grind and the extraction process is time consuming. Despite the difficulty in accessing the healing parts of the plant, Native Americans took Collinsonia canadensis as a general tonic and as a treatment for bladder and kidney stones.

Some herbalists and homeopathic doctors report that this remedy cures gastrointestinal issues. Heartburn and gastritis, in particular, may respond to treatment because the herb stimulates the stomach. Many practitioners feel that it is the best remedy for end-of-pregnancy constipation and hemorrhoids caused by a sluggish, congested lower bowel.

Collinsonia canadensis is used to treat various circulatory problems by strengthening the whole circulatory system.
Collinsonia canadensis is used to treat various circulatory problems by strengthening the whole circulatory system.

In addition, Collinsonia canadensis acts as a tonic for the entire circulatory system. According to herbalists, this plant does not immediately force the heart into pumping harder or faster, but instead works over time to strengthen the entire system. This may be especially true in cases where the heart has been damaged by rheumatic inflammation, some natural healthcare providers maintain.

Native Americans took Collinsonia canadensis as a tonic to treat kidney stones.
Native Americans took Collinsonia canadensis as a tonic to treat kidney stones.

There appears to be little in the way of scientific research to support these claims. More research needs to be done to determine whether Collinsonia canadensis is actually effective. Some scientists are studying the plant to find out if it might be a good cancer treatment.

Collinsonia canadensis is available in pill, tincture, powder, or in homeopathic pellets. The commonly prescribed herbal dose for adults is approximately two or three capsules twice per day. The package literature generally recommends beginning with one capsule to prevent any possible side effects.

Collinsonia canadensis is available in a variety of forms, including pill form.
Collinsonia canadensis is available in a variety of forms, including pill form.

Side effects may occur if Collinsonia canadensis is taken in large doses. These side effects may include diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, painful urination, or stomach pain. Individuals on lithium should not take this herb. Doing so could cause a build-up of lithium in the body. Those taking prescription diuretics should also use caution with this herb. It may compound the effect of the diuretic, causing the body lose too much potassium.

Pregnant or nursing women should also avoid taking this herb. Not enough is known about its potential effect on the fetus. Speaking with a healthcare provider before taking Collinsonia canadensis is highly advised.

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    • The collinsonia canadensis herb can be used to treat gastrointestinal issues.
      By: bruno135_406
      The collinsonia canadensis herb can be used to treat gastrointestinal issues.
    • Collinsonia canadensis is used to treat various circulatory problems by strengthening the whole circulatory system.
      By: 3drenderings
      Collinsonia canadensis is used to treat various circulatory problems by strengthening the whole circulatory system.
    • Native Americans took Collinsonia canadensis as a tonic to treat kidney stones.
      By: p6m5
      Native Americans took Collinsonia canadensis as a tonic to treat kidney stones.
    • Collinsonia canadensis is available in a variety of forms, including pill form.
      By: Photographee.eu
      Collinsonia canadensis is available in a variety of forms, including pill form.
    • While Native Americans once relied on collinsonia canadensis to treat bladder or kidney ailments, most are more likely to seek medical treatment at a hospital today.
      By: Trish23
      While Native Americans once relied on collinsonia canadensis to treat bladder or kidney ailments, most are more likely to seek medical treatment at a hospital today.
    • Side effects of Collinsonia canadensis may include painful urination.
      By: arturas kerdokas
      Side effects of Collinsonia canadensis may include painful urination.
    • Pregnant and nursing women should not take collinsonia canadensis.
      By: sborisov
      Pregnant and nursing women should not take collinsonia canadensis.
    • Collinsonia canadensis may be used to treat hemorrhoids.
      By: Andrea Danti
      Collinsonia canadensis may be used to treat hemorrhoids.