BALMONY

(Chelone glabra; SCROPHULARIACEAE)

Parts used:  Leaves, flowers, or whole herb (fresh).

Therapeutic action:

Tonic, stimulant, antibilious, detergent, anthelmintic, aperient, cholagogue.

This herb was a favorite American Indian botanical remedy. It is one of the finest tonic agents for liver malfunction (a specific for the left lobe) and to cleanse the system of morbid bile secretions. The whole assimilatory system is toned up by this valuable herb through stimulating gastric and salivary secretions and its salutary effect on biliary and fecal elimination; and as it tones the stomach, the appetite is stimulated and becomes sharper, and all atonic conditions are nourished and benefited.

Medicinal uses:

Biliousness, constipation, convalescence from febrile and inflammatory sickness, inflamed breasts, debility (digestive organs), dyspepsia, jaundice, liver problems, piles, tumors, painful ulcers, worms (stomach).

Preparation:

Infusion, ointment, powder, tincture. Alcohol and water are used as the solvents for the flowers.