Gravel Root

Eupatorium purpureum

Physical Characteristics

Eupatorium purpureum is a PERENNIAL growing to 2 m (6ft) by 1 m (3ft 3in) at a fast rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 4. It is in flower from August to October, and the seeds ripen from September to November. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs) and is pollinated by Insects. The plant is self-fertile. It is noted for attracting wildlife. Suitable for: light (sandy), medium (loamy) and heavy (clay) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in semi-shade (light woodland) or no shade. It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New Hampshire to Minnesota, south to Florida and Oklahoma[187]..

Habitats

Woodland Garden Dappled Shade; Shady Edge; Meadow;

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Edible Uses: Salt The roots have been burnt and their ashes used as salt to flavour foods[257].

Medicinal Uses

Astringent Diuretic Nervine Tonic Urinary Gravel root was used by the native N. American Indians as a diaphoretic to induce perspiration and break a fever. The plant was quickly adopted by the white settlers and still finds a use in modern herbalism[268]. The whole plant, but especially the root, is astringent, diuretic, nervine and tonic[4, 21, 165]. It works particularly on the genito-urinary system and the uterus[238]. Especially valuable as a diuretic and stimulant, as well as an astringent tonic[4], a tea made from the roots and leaves has been used to eliminate stones from the urinary tract, to treat urinary incontinence in children, cystitis, urethritis, impotence etc[222, 254, 268]. It is also said to be helpful in treating rheumatism and gout by increasing the removal of waste from the kidneys[254, 257]. The leaves and flowering stems are harvested in the summer before the buds open and are dried for later use. The roots are harvested in the autumn and dried for later use[238].

Known Hazards

None known