Myricaceae
Bayberry
Morella cerifera
⚠ Use with Caution
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: Eastern North America
Also known as: Wax Myrtle, Southern Bayberry, Tallow Shrub
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
BarkRoot
Therapeutic Uses
Diarrhea, colitis, sore throat (gargle), nasal catarrh, colds with congestion, varicose veins, lymphatic congestion. Traditional Eclectic medicine herb — stimulating astringent.
Herbal Actions
Astringent, stimulant, diaphoretic, antidiarrheal, mild expectorant
Active Constituents
Myricin, myricitrin (flavonoid), tannins, volatile oil, resin acids, triterpenes
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 0.5 tsp dried bark per 250ml, simmer 10 min, 2–3x daily |
| Tincture | 1–3 ml (1:5, 40% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Powdered bark mixed with cayenne used as stimulating snuff for nasal catarrh (traditional use). Strong astringent — use short term. Combine with echinacea for acute infections. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy (emmenagogue). Avoid in liver disease. High doses may cause GI irritation and nausea.
Side Effects: Nausea, vomiting at high doses. Liver irritation (myricitrin). Skin irritation (topical wax).