Botanical Overview
Eupatorium purpureum, commonly known as Joe-Pye weed or Spotted Joe-Pye weed, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Asteraceae family. Native to Eastern North America, especially the United States and Canada, this species is traditionally utilized medicinally with the aerial parts including leaves and stems being most commonly employed.
Common names for this species include Joe-Pye weed and Sweet Joe-Pye weed.
Energetics
The herb is generally considered neutral in temperature and moisture. It features bitter and sweet tastes and is tonifying in nature, mostly affecting the qi aspect of bodily energetics. No reliable information about directionality is available.
Primary Actions
- Diuretic
- Anti-inflammatory
- Lymphatic tonic
- Uricosuric
Indications
Western
- Edema
- Urinary tract infections
- Rheumatic conditions
- Kidney stones
- Swollen lymph nodes
Syndromes
- Lymphatic stasis
- Water retention
- Inflammation of urinary tract
TCM
No traditional Chinese medicinal indications documented.
Ayurveda
No classical Ayurvedic uses documented.
Unani
No classical Unani uses documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Eupatorium purpureum contains phytochemical families including triterpenes, flavonoids, sesquiterpenes, and alkaloids, which contribute to its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Decoction of aerial parts: 2-4 g, 2-3 times daily
- Infusion: 1-2 teaspoons dried herb per cup, 2-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Generally considered safe in traditional use. Internal use should be cautious because of potential allergic reactions and insufficient modern toxicity data. Not recommended during pregnancy due to lack of safety data. Use cautiously in patients with kidney disorders. There are no known significant drug interactions.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers documented for Eupatorium purpureum.
Selected References
- Eupatorium purpureum (Joe-Pye Weed) Edibility & Medicinal Uses – PFAF
- Eupatorium Species – Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects, 2nd edition (2011)
- Eupatorium purpureum L. profile – USDA Plants Database