CULVER'S ROOT or BLACK ROOT or SPEEDWELL

(Leptandra virginica; Varonicastrum virginicum; Eustachya purpurea; E. alba; SCROPHULARIACEAE)

Parts used:

Dried rhizome and roots, never fresh.

Therapeutic action:

Cathartic (laxative to simple purgative, according to dose), relaxant hepatic, tonic, alterative, emetic, diaphoretic, anthelmintic, vermifuge, antiseptic, astringent, antiscrofulous, anti-syphilitic, depurant, deobstruent.

The active principles in Culver's root are similar to mandrake in action, but Culver's root exerts its potency more on the duodenum, whereas mandrake acts more powerfully on the liver (they are often combined compatibly in the same preparation). Culver's root is a gentle relaxant-tonic to liver action (best given in small and repeated doses), and its certain action is evident by the rapid change in the biliary color in the eyes and skin, even though the bowels are apparently not affected. It does act specifically, however, on the intestinal secretions as noted, generally producing a positive and non-griping action (in 10-15 hours), but the addition of a carminative or corrective agent is usually recommended to avoid potential nausea or griping problems. It is an excellent tonic to the stomach, and it is valuable for purifying the blood and removing morbid catarrhal obstructions and congestions in a mild, natural manner.

Medicinal uses:

Liver disorders, typhoid, dysentery, jaundice, eruptive skin troubles, chronic constipation (due to insufficient biliary and intestinal secretions), duodenal atony (intestinal indigestion), scrofula, syphilis, impure blood, stomach disorders, fevers (typhus, typhoid, rheumatic), diarrhea, cholera infantum, worms.

Preparation:

Decoction, fluid extract, infusion, powder, tincture. Do not use the fresh root due to its violent and irritating action.