Betony (Pedicularis spp) is an effective skeletal muscle relaxant for habitually tense. With species known as Elephant’s Head and Lousewort, Pedicularis species thrive in the western North America from high mountain meadows to moist forests to the dry lower mountain slopes and the Pacific coastal ranges. They are hemiparasitic, sharing roots with a host plant but capable of growing independently. Because they share roots with their neighbors, do not use Pedicularis growing on Senecio or toxic legumes.
Here is what Michael wrote about how to use the plant from his Herbal Tinctures in Clinical Practice and Materia Medica Handbook
Pedicularis (Betony/Elephant’s Head/Lousewort ) Full FOLIO HERE
Indications: Joint and muscle pain, sprains with sharp muscle spasms…any condition that is aggravated by a lowered pain threshold from musculoskeletal irritability..
HERB in FLOWER. Standard Infusion, 4-8 ounces.Tincture [Fresh Plant, 1:2, Dry Plant, 1:5, 50% alcohol] 1-2 teaspoons, all to 3X a day.
Semi-parasitic, don’t use Pedicularis growing on Senecio or toxic legumes
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