Botanical Overview
Eriodictyon californicum, commonly known as Yerba Santa or California Yerba Santa, is a member of the Boraginaceae family. This woody shrub is native to western North America, particularly California, Oregon, and Nevada. Traditionally, the leaves and aerial parts are used medicinally.
Energetics
Yerba Santa is considered warming and drying in nature. Its taste profile includes bitter, astringent, and pungent qualities, with an ascending and outward directionality. It is tonifying and primarily influences the qi aspect of physiology.
Primary Actions
- Expectorant
- Anti-inflammatory
- Antioxidant
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Cough
- Congestion
- Bronchitis
- Sinusitis
- Wounds
- Skin inflammation
- Digestive upset
Syndromes
- Respiratory tract infections
- Upper respiratory congestion
- Chronic bronchitis
- Inflammatory skin conditions
TCM
Not documented.
Ayurveda
Not documented.
Unani
Not documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
The plant contains flavonoids such as eriodictyol and sterubin, essential and volatile oils, resins, and coumarins, which contribute to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons dried leaf per cup, taken 2-3 times daily
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% alcohol, 2-5 mL 2-3 times daily
- External poultice or wash used for wounds and skin inflammations
Safety & Contraindications
Yerba Santa is generally considered safe when used in traditional dosages. Caution is advised in individuals with dry or inflammatory conditions due to its drying effects. There is insufficient data on safety in pregnancy and lactation; therefore, use with caution or avoid. Topical use may cause mild irritation in sensitive individuals.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers identified in classical or credible modern ethnobotanical sources.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future Database: “Eriodictyon californicum – Yerba Santa”
- University of Michigan – Native American Ethnobotany: “Eriodictyon californicum”
- Steffen DJ, et al. “Antioxidant properties of eriodictyol and sterubin from Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon californicum)”, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2013