Spikenard Herbal Remedies
American spikenard is used for rheumatism and various skin conditions and is considered a tonic and blood purifier. Spikenard is used to treat chronic lung problems and digestive weakness. It also serves as a diaphoretic and expectorant, useful for breaking up colds and flu. Spikenard makes a tasty cough syrup and is useful in this form to rid thick phlegm from the upper respiratory tract. Spikenard has a taste of SWEET, ACRID and a temperature of WARM.
Spikenard Proper Dose
| Type | Dossage |
| Spikenard Decoction | 1 cup 2-3 x daily |
| Spikenard Tincture | 10 drops - 1 dropperful 2-3 x daily |
Spikenard Reference Information
| Latin Name | Aralia racemosa |
| Other Names | American Spikenard |
| Part Used | Rhizome, Root |
| Herb Forms | Tincture, bulk herb. |
| Affects | Immune system, Respiratory system, Urinary system |
| Cautions | Contraindicated during pregnancy. |
| Botanical Info | A perennial of the Ginseng family to 3 or 4 feet high with branched reddish stems, numerous umbels of small whitish flowers, and a large aromatic branched root. |
Supporting Research
McGuffin, M. et al. 1997. Botanical Safety Handbook. Boca Raton: CRC Press.
Felter, H.W. and J.U. Lloyd. 1983. (1898). King's Dispensatory. Portland, OR: Eclectic Medical Publications.
Wren, R.C. 1988. Potter's New Cyclopaedia of Botanical Drugs. Essex: C.W. Daniel Co. Ltd.