Herb: Cocklebur


Latin name: Xanthium strumarium


Synonyms: Xanthium canadense


Family: Compositae



Medicinal use of Cocklebur:

The leaves and root are anodyne, antirheumatic, appetizer, diaphoretic, diuretic, emollient, laxative and sedative. The plant is considered to be useful in treating long-standing cases of malaria and is used as an adulterant for Datura stramonium. An infusion of the plant has been used in the treatment of rheumatism, diseased kidneys and tuberculosis. It has also been used as a liniment on the armpits to reduce perspiration. The fruits contain a number of medically active compounds including glycosides and phytosterols. They are anodyne, antibacterial, antifungal, antimalarial, antirheumatic, antispasmodic, antitussive, cytotxic, hypoglycaemic and stomachic. They are used internally in the treatment of allergic rhinitis, sinusitis, catarrh, rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, constipation, diarrhoea, lumbago, leprosy and pruritis. They are also used externally to treat pruritis. The fruits are harvested when ripe and dried for later use. The root is a bitter tonic and febrifuge. It has historically been used in the treatment of scrofulous tumours. A decoction of the root has been used in the treatment of high fevers and to help a woman expel the afterbirth. A decoction of the seeds has been used in the treatment of bladder complaints. A poultice of the powdered seed has been applied as a salve on open sores.

Description of the plant:



Plant:
Annual


Height:
75 cm
(2 feet)

Flowering:
July to
October

Habitat of the herb:

River banks, lake shores, cultivated ground and pastures.

Edible parts of Cocklebur:

Leaves and young plants - cooked. They must be thoroughly boiled and then washed. Caution is advised, the plant is probably poisonous. Seed - raw or cooked. It can be used as a piäole. The seed can be ground into a powder and mixed with flour for making bread, cakes etc. The seed contains about 36.7% protein, 38.6% fat, 5.2% ash. It also contains a glycoside and is probably poisonous.

Other uses of the herb:

The dried leaves are a source of tannin. A yellow dye is obtained from the leaves. The seed powder has been used as a blue body paint. The dried plant repels weevils from stored wheat grain. The seed contains an essential oil.

Propagation of Cocklebur:

Seed - sow spring or autumn in situ. The seed requires plenty of moisture in order to germinate.

Cultivation of the herb:

River banks, lake shores, cultivated ground and pastures.

Known hazards of Xanthium strumarium:

Poisonous. Most members of this genus are toxic to grazing animals and are usually avoided by them. The seed also contains toxins.

Plant information taken from the Plants For A Future.