Ethnobotany It is used by Native Americans in the southwest region for many conditions ranging from antiseptic use to internal uses such as respiratory, gastrointestinal, urinary problems, and musculoskeletal inflammations. It is also highly regarded for its action against poisonous snakebites. Some have even used it to for a toothache by chewing on the twigs. It was considered a ‘cure-all’ by many Native American cultures.
Non-medical uses vary and it has added to feed for livestock, used as fuel for fires, and for repairing the roofs or walls of Native American living establishments. It has also been used as an insecticide, prevention of rancidity of vegetable oils, sunscreen, massage oil and fish poison. Many animals have even used it for shelter.
Cultivation It can be grown by placing the seeds in a pan and covering them with boiling water; afterwards, allow them to soak overnight and then transplant the seeds to the soil and water regularly. It prefers warm temperatures initially, and can tolerate full sun and heat once established. While not the preferred climate, they will tolerate freezing temperatures as well.
There is no preference for soil type (acid or alkaline) because it will change the soil to its liking by secreting substances into the soil; although, a high salt content can inhibit its growth. Germination time is undocumented, but has been studied that rainfall of 3-6 inches is optimum, as well as a temperature of 73.4 degrees Fahrenheit.
Wildcrafting It is wildly abundant in the Southwest region of North America and can be commonly found growing in arroyos and gentle slope with elevations reaching 5,000 feet. While there are no restrictions to harvesting this plant, one should never take more than is necessary for their own private use. It possesses vegetative and sexual reproduction, but needs large amounts of rainfall for sexual reproduction. It will continue to grow new branches and reproduce so long as the root crown is not damaged.
Preparation methods All of the plant parts can be used, but the leaves and small twigs are most often used for making poultices, decoctions, salves and tinctures. Other uses include making infusions, dried powders, ointments, teas, and honeys. Its application can be used both internally and externally.
Indications 
Its herbal actions are many, but it is most commonly used as an antiseptic both as anti-bacterial and anti-viral, specifically against the herpes virus. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and is used to heal wounds. Other qualities it possesses are that of an analgesic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, alterative, diuretic, expectorant, cytotoxic, blood flow stimulant, fever inducer, and as a tonic.
Specific uses for this plant have been many to include the following: Acne, allergies, asthma, chronic backache, common cold, dysuria, gastritis, headaches, indigestion, malignant melanomas, menstrual cramps, rheumatic arthritis, pneumonia, prostatitis, sore throat, sinusitis, and UTI. Based on its many actions, it considered an alterative (that which restores health), as well as tonic (that which invigorates and increases body tone). Its use can vary widely and is used for almost anything.
Administration/ duration of use In pill form, it would be taken as 2-4 capsules a day. As a tea, 1-3 grams of herb steeped in 8oz of boiling water would be taken two or three times a day. As a fresh plant tincture one would use 20-60 drops. If it was used as a strong decoction, then it would be applied as a topical only.
To stay within a safe parameter of use, the dosage is calculated based on a person weighing 70kg. In this case, a person weighing 70kg could take up to 280g/day or 9oz/day of crude or fluid extract and remain within a safe margin of use.
Side-effects The most serious side effect would be liver damage. This would be due to large extended doses. This most likely would be preceded by nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Dermatitis has also been reported.
Toxicity Studies on NDGA specifically have shown it not to be very toxic, even in large doses; however, consuming large doses of this is still not recommended.
Contraindications (specific situations in which a drug, procedure, or surgery should not be used) Anyone who is taking anti-coagulants such as aspirin, Coumadin, or warfarin. Liver disease such as hepatitis. Pregnant and/or lactating women. People with Parkinson’s disease. Patients on COMT inhibitors such as, tolcapone and entacapone. People taking barbiturates or MAOI’s. Anyone that is hypothyroid.
Chris Fucci is a member of a group that call themselves the Naturophathic Knights whose mission is to raise awareness of the power of Naturopathic Medicine through educating both the public and future physicians. They believe it is important to give back to the community and therefore provide services to others who are less fortunate, as well as participate in restoration projects. Here are the Naturopathic Knights:
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