Botanical Overview
Collinsonia canadensis, commonly known as Stone root, Richweed, or Canada horse balm, belongs to the Lamiaceae family. This perennial herb is native to Eastern North America. The primary part used medicinally is the root, valued for its tonic and astringent properties.
Energetics
Stone root is considered energetically neutral in temperature and drying in moisture. It has bitter and astringent tastes, is tonifying in its action, and primarily affects the qi.
Primary Actions
- Astringent
- Diuretic
- Tonic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Stimulant
Indications
Western
- Varicose veins
- Hemorrhoids
- Venous insufficiency
- Edema
- Chronic inflammation
- Digestive sluggishness
- Urinary difficulty
Syndromes
- Venous stasis
- Chronic venous insufficiency
- Mild diuretic-responsive edema
- Mucosal inflammation
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicine uses recorded.
Ayurveda
No Ayurveda uses recorded.
Unani
No Unani uses recorded.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Collinsonia canadensis contains essential oils, tannins, flavonoids, volatile oils, and volatile terpenes contributing to its astringent and tonic actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion 2-4 g 2-3 times daily
- Tincture 1:5 (40%) 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
- Decoction of root 2-4 g 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe when used appropriately. Avoid use in pregnancy due to insufficient safety data. No known drug interactions; caution advised in hypotensive patients.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable data on planetary or elemental rulers identified.
Selected References
- Collinsonia canadensis – Stone root, Plants For A Future
- American Herbal Pharmacopoeia Collinsonia monograph, Upton (2017)
- Herbal Medicine Reference, Weiss (1988)