Medicinal Action

Rheumatism Treatment
Rheumatism treatment focuses on alleviating joint pain and swelling, improving mobility, and addressing underlying inflammation. Herbal remedies like devil’s claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), willow bark (Salix alba), and turmeric (Curcuma longa) are traditionally used for their anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. Nettle (Urtica dioica) and boswellia (Boswellia serrata) may also help reduce chronic inflammation in joints. Complementary approaches such as warm compresses, therapeutic exercises, and dietary changes (e.g., anti-inflammatory diets) can further support recovery and improve quality of life for those with rheumatic conditions.

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Red Clover (Trifolium pretense)
Historical Use:
Red clover has long been regarded in European and folk herbal traditions as a “blood purifier” and lymphatic tonic. Herbalists used the blossoms as an alterative to support the body’s natural detoxification processes, promote clearer skin, and ease stubborn, lingering congestion. The plant was also valued as a gentle expectorant to relieve coughs and bronchial irritation. Topically, poultices made from red clover were used to soothe rashes, eczema, and wounds.
Current Uses:
Today, red clover is most widely recognized for its phytoestrogenic properties. Isoflavones found in the blossoms have been studied for their ability to modulate estrogen activity, making red clover a common choice for easing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
Red clover also remains an important herb for lymphatic and “blood-cleansing” support in contemporary herbalism, used to promote healthy skin and gentle detoxification. It is sometimes included in formulations for chronic skin conditions, sluggish lymphatic flow, or recovery from long illness.
In cardiovascular health, red clover’s isoflavones have shown potential for improving vascular elasticity and supporting healthy lipid profiles, though research is mixed. Some practitioners also recommend red clover extracts for supporting bone density in postmenopausal women.
Respiratory uses continue today, with red clover being taken as a tea or syrup to support cough relief and promote the expectoration of mucus. Topically, it is used in salves, washes, and poultices to calm inflammatory skin conditions and support wound healing.
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Mullein Leaf (Verbascum thapsus)
Historical Use:
Mullein has a long history of use in European folk medicine and among many Native American nations as a soothing herb for the lungs. The leaves and flowers were commonly brewed as a tea or smoked to ease coughs, bronchitis, and asthma. The plant’s soft, velvety leaves were applied as poultices to calm inflammation and promote healing of burns, wounds, and skin irritations. Mullein flowers were traditionally infused into oil to relieve earaches and reduce pain and swelling in the ear.
Current Uses:
Mullein remains a popular respiratory remedy. Its expectorant and demulcent properties help thin and move mucus, making coughs more productive and easing breathing during colds, bronchitis, and other congestive conditions. Teas, tinctures, and syrups are frequently used to soothe sore throats and support overall lung health.
Externally, mullein is applied in infused oils, poultices, and compresses to calm irritation, reduce inflammation, and assist with wound healing. Mullein flower oil continues to be a staple in ear drop preparations to ease ear discomfort and support a healthy inflammatory response.
Beyond respiratory and topical uses, mullein is sometimes used to soothe irritated mucous membranes in the digestive tract and gently support elimination when there is dryness or inflammation.
Learn More:
Want to explore more about energetics, history and more? Visit our Materia Medica section and search for this herb to deepen your understanding.
Comfrey Root (Symphytum officinale)
Traditional Uses:
Comfrey has been widely used for centuries as a healing herb, particularly in folk medicine. Traditionally, it was known as “boneset” or “knitbone” due to its ability to promote the healing of fractures and broken bones. The herb was applied externally in the form of poultices, compresses, and salves to treat bruises, sprains, wounds, and joint injuries. The leaves and roots were used to reduce inflammation and swelling and speed up the healing of soft tissues.
Wound Healing: Comfrey’s traditional use for wounds and ulcers was due to its content of allantoin, a compound that stimulates cell regeneration and tissue repair.
Internal Use (Historical): In the past, comfrey was also consumed as a tea or decoction to treat respiratory conditions, gastrointestinal disorders, and internal bleeding. However, internal use of comfrey is now discouraged due to concerns over pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), which can be toxic to the liver.
Current Uses:
Today, comfrey remains highly regarded for its external use in treating bruises, sprains, strains, and inflammation of muscles and joints. Modern herbalists recommend comfrey as an ingredient in ointments and creams to aid in the healing of skin conditions, minor wounds, burns, and fractures. Its ability to promote tissue regeneration and reduce inflammation has kept it relevant in natural remedies, though strict regulations now limit its internal use due to its hepatotoxic potential.
Topical Applications: Comfrey is commonly used in herbal salves, balms, and lotions for musculoskeletal pain, as well as in arthritis and rheumatic treatments. The herb helps reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, making it a popular remedy for athletes and those recovering from injuries.
Learn More:
Want to explore more about Comfrey’s energetics and history? Visit our Materia Medica section and search for this herb to deepen your understanding.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)
Uses
Nervine and Sedative:
Catnip has been traditionally used as a mild sedative to calm the nervous system, making it useful for treating anxiety, nervous tension, and insomnia. Its gentle relaxing properties help alleviate restlessness and promote restful sleep without the grogginess associated with stronger sedatives.
Digestive Support:
Catnip is also well known for its use in treating digestive issues. It acts as a carminative and antispasmodic, making it effective for relieving indigestion, gas, cramping, and colic. Its ability to calm both the nervous system and the digestive system makes it a powerful herb for conditions where stress and digestive discomfort are intertwined.
Children’s Herb:
Because of its gentle nature, catnip is often used for children, particularly for treating colic, restlessness, fever, and teething discomfort. Its calming effects help to ease fussy behavior and soothe an upset stomach in infants and young children.
Menstrual Relief:
Catnip’s antispasmodic properties also make it helpful for menstrual cramps. Its ability to relax smooth muscle tissue eases the pain of cramping and discomfort associated with menstruation.
Cold and Flu Support:
Traditionally, catnip has been used to support the body during colds and fevers. It acts as a diaphoretic, promoting sweating to help break fevers, and can ease congestion and soothe the respiratory system during illness.
Want to learn more? Visit our Materia Medica section and search for this herb to explore its history, uses, energetics, and more.