Sagebrush

Jul 14

2 min read

Sagebrush grows all over the Rocky Mountains where I live. This plant is a relative of wormwood and will carry all the healing benefits of that plant, but with more potency.

Printable for Herbal

Artemisia tridentata

Family: Asteraceae - daisy, sunflower

Parts used: leaves, stems, blossoms, seeds

Actions

Antibacterial

Antifungal

Anti-Inflammatory

Antiviral

Antitumor

Antiparasitic

Antiseptic

Antibiotic

Energetics/Body Systems Affected

Warming

Drying

Respiratory

Immune

Uses

Fungal problems such as nail fungus, athlete's foot, jock itch, ring worm, etc.
Bacterial and viral infections of all kinds, including pneumonia, candida, E. coli, staph, MRSA, strep, etc.
Cuts, wounds, sores, boils, acne, etc. (wash or poultice)
Emetic when made with a strong decoction.
Stomach cramps and indigestion.
Helps with liver problems
Respiratory issues such as bronchitis, pneumonia, coughs, etc.
Sinus and head colds
Stimulates uterine circulation, useful for suppressed menstruation or cramping.
Sore throat, mouth sores and diseases such as gingivitis (gargle)
Headache and pain reliever (compress or poultice over area)
Radiation poisoning
Air purifier (hang bundles in a room or smoke a bundle)
Hygiene; rub fresh leaves under arms for deodorant, powder for a body or tooth powder.

Because of the potency and bitter taste of this herb, it is best to start with a small amount of herb per water when making a tea for drinking. I do about 1 teaspoon per pint of water and that is still pretty potent.

Tea
Gargle, wash
Bath, steam
Poultice, compress
Herbal oil
Salve, ointment
Extracts, liniment
Syrup
Powder; capsules, body powder (also good for diaper rash or sores)
Bath, foot soak, steam inhalation
Smoke for purification (tie dried stems in a bundle and burn)

Foraging/Harvesting

Found in dry, sandy, and gravely soils, high valleys, slopes and desert land. An aromatic evergreen that can grow up to 8 feet tall. Gray-green branches are usually twisted. The leaves are soft and silvery with three lobes at the top. Flowers are small yellow heads.

Can be harvested anytime by "pruning" branches. Use immediately in a preparation or dry for future use.

Safety

Artemisia species stimulate uterine circulation so it’s best not to take during pregnancy. Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to this plant such as contact dermatitis and hay fever.