Araliaceae
Spikenard
Aralia racemosa
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Eastern North America
Also known as: American Spikenard, Life-of-Man, Petty Morrel
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Deep respiratory conditions (chronic bronchitis, pleurisy), rheumatic conditions, lymphatic congestion, coughs. Traditional Native American respiratory herb. Related to Eleuthero (same family).
Herbal Actions
Expectorant, diaphoretic, adaptogen (mild), anti-inflammatory, lymphagogue
Active Constituents
Triterpene saponins (aralosides), essential oil, resin, tannins, starch
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 1 tsp dried root simmered 20 min in 250ml, 3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 45% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Combine with elecampane and osha root for deep chronic respiratory conditions. Warming and stimulating — suited to cold, damp presentations. Less commonly used than previously. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy. No significant drug interactions known. Generally safe at therapeutic doses.
Side Effects: GI irritation at high doses. Generally well tolerated.