Bistort
(Polygonum bistorta)
Also know as Snakeweed
Botanical Information
A short, compact perennial plant of wet meadows in the buckwheat family. The flowers are in short pink or white spikes.
Working with Bistort
Part(s) Used
Root, Rhizome
Herb Forms
Bulk herb, powder.
Affects
Bistort root is highly astringent, and is used for diarrhea and hemorrhaging. The decoction is used as a mouthwash for gum problems, and the powder is sprinkled on wounds externally to stop bleeding. P. bistortoides is a common native U.S. species that can be used similarly.
Other dose forms: use as a wash for mouth problems or sore throat; 1 tsp/cup of water.
Bistort has a taste of ASTRINGENT and a temperature of COOL.
Cautions
None noted.
