Ceanothus spp, (common names include Red Root, Buckbrush, Deerbrush or New Jersey Tea) (C. Velutinus, C. Cuneatus, C. spinosus, C. fendleri, C. greggii, C. herbaceun, C. americanus and hybridized plants in overlap areas) is for the subclinical grey areas between health and overt disease where herbal medicine thrives. As an astringent it is a good gargle and mouthwash but “much of its value comes from its effects on the integrity of blood proteins.” (Moore’s Pacific Northwest book) Red root’s effect on blood proteins increases interstitial circulation and improves lymphatic drainage. It is particularly useful for inflammation and liver headaches caused by over indulging in fatty foods. It strengthens lymph tissue and stimulates fluid drainage from congested tissues including breast and ovarian cysts.
Many, but not all Ceanothus species are medicinal. Michael writes in his Ceanothus Folio, “The useful species share several common characteristics; the roots bear nitrogen-fixing fungi, they range in color from that of Caucasian skin to claret wine, and those plants that are most environmentally stressed, and more reliant on their peculiar fungi, are the strongest medicines.” Ceanothus flowers contain saponins and can be used on the trail as hand soap. Just grab a handful of flowers and mash them into a lightly foaming scrub.
Part Used: The whole roots, cut while fresh, and either tinctured fresh or dried fortea. The dry root pieces are VERY difficult to grind up for a macerated or percolated tincture, unless you have a sturdy drug or hammer mill.
PREPARATIONS:
Cold Infusion (one ounce steeped overnight in a quart of water) Dosage, 2-4 ounces
Strong Decoction (Same proportions as above, although a bit heat-damaged) Dosage, 2-4 ounces
Tincture, [Fresh Root, 1:2, Dry Root, 1:5, 50% alcohol] Dosage, 30-90 drops, to 4X a day
SUMMARY OF CLINICAL USES: Weakness and bogginess in lymph pulp and nodes; Rouleau of RBC, without dysplasia, mild splenomegaly; acute tonsillitis and pharyngitis.
CONTRAINDICATIONS Coagulation disorders or anticoagulant medications.
Learn more about Ceanothus spp. (Red Root, New Jersey Tea) in Michael’s Full FOLIO or in Michael RS Moore’s books Medicinal Plants of the Pacific Northwest or Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West.