Wild Ginger

Asarum sieboldii

Physical Characteristics

Asarum sieboldii is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 6in). It is in flower from April to May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Flies. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid and neutral soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

E. Asia - China, Japan, Manchuria.

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; not Deep Shade;

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Anaesthetic Analgesic Antibacterial Antipyretic Diaphoretic Diuretic Emetic Expectorant Hypotensive Odontalgic Purgative Sedative Sternutatory Odontalgic, sternutatory[61, 147]. The entire plant is anaesthetic, analgesic, antibacterial, antipyretic, antitussive, diaphoretic, diuretic and hypotensive[176]. It is used in the treatment of colds, severe toothache, rheumatic pain and chronic bronchitis with copious and thin phlegm[176]. This remedy should be used with caution, large doses of the essential oil can lead to death[176]. The root is analgesic, expectorant, sedative, diaphoretic, diuretic, emetic and purgative[218, 279]. A decoction is used in the treatment of stuffy nose, toothache, headache, rheumatic aches and pains, productive coughing and wheezing[147]. It is harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

One report says that this plant should be used with caution, a reason is not given[176].