Herb: Hairy Gumweed


Latin name: Grindelia humilis


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Hairy Gumweed:

The dried leaves and flowering tops are antiasthmatic, expectorant and sedative. The principal use of this herb is in the treatment of bronchial catarrh, especially when there is an asthmatic tendency. The active principle is excreted from the kidneys, and this sometimes produces signs of renal irritation. The plant has been used in the treatment of itching skin eruptions caused by contact with poison oak (Rhus spp.). A homeopathic remedy is prepared from the leaves and flowering stems.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Perennial


Height:
150 cm
(5 feet)

Flowering:
July to
August

Habitat of the herb:

Coastal salt marshes.

Other uses of Hairy Gumweed:

Yellow and green dyes are obtained from the flowering heads and pods. Aromatic.

Propagation of the herb:

Seed - sow autumn or spring in a cool greenhouse and only just cover the seed. Prick out the plants into individual pots when they are large enough to handle and plant them out into their permanent positions in early summer.

Cultivation of Hairy Gumweed:

Coastal salt marshes.

Known hazards of Grindelia humilis:

None known

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.