Herb: Philadelphia Fleabane


Latin name: Erigeron philadelphicus


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Philadelphia Fleabane:

A tea made from the plant is astringent, diaphoretic, diuretic and emmenagogue. It is used in the treatment of chronic diarrhoea, gout, gravel, epilepsy and menstrual problems. A poultice of the plant is used to treat headaches and is also applied to sores. It should not be taken by pregnant women since it can induce a miscarriage. A snuff made from the powdered florets is used to make a person with catarrh sneeze.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Biennial/Perennial


Height:
70 cm
(2 feet)

Flowering:
July to
August

Habitat of the herb:

Thickets. Fields and woods. Low prairies and streambanks, often on calcareous clays.

Propagation of Philadelphia Fleabane:

Seed - sow spring in situ. The seed usually germinates within four weeks.

Cultivation of the herb:

Thickets. Fields and woods. Low prairies and streambanks, often on calcareous clays.

Known hazards of Erigeron philadelphicus:

Contact with the plant can cause dermatitis in sensitive people.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.