Brigham Tea

Also known as Mormon tea, both names stemming from the use of this plant by the Utah pioneers.

Printable for Herbal

Ephedra viridis (other species)

Family: Ephedraceae

Parts used:  leaves, stems, twigs

Actions

Anti-inflammatory

Antihistamine

Antiseptic

Astringent

Diuretic

Expectorant

Energetics/Body Systems Affected

Drying

Lung

Kidney

Bladder

Uses

• Lung issues such as asthma, hay fever, bronchitis, and coughs

• Cold and flu

• Fever

• Allergies

• Digestive tonic

• Joint pain and inflammation

• Purifies the blood and promotes circulation

• Kidney support, helping to prevent infection and disorders

• Wounds and sores

• Energy booster

Herb Preparations

• Tea, prepare as a decoction simmering for a few minutes.

• Tincture

• Powdered, capsules

• Poultice (easiest way is to add water to the powder to form a paste)

Foraging/Harvesting

Found on dry rocky slopes, canyons, bush scrub, deserts, and woodlands. Densely branched and mostly evergreen shrub that turns yellowish as it matures. Can get up to five feet, leaves are scale like rounded stems that are grooved and jointed.

• Harvest anytime by pulling off the stem like leaves and twigs.

Cautions

Not for use while pregnant or nursing.