Twinleaf, Rheumatism Root

Jeffersonia diphylla

Physical Characteristics

Jeffersonia diphylla is a PERENNIAL growing to 0.2 m (0ft 8in) by 0.2 m (0ft 8in) at a slow rate. See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 5. It is in flower in May. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) and medium (loamy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It can grow in full shade (deep woodland) or semi-shade (light woodland). It prefers moist soil.

Distribution

Eastern N. America - New York and Ontario to Alabama and west to Wisconsin.

Habitats

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

Edible Uses

None known

Medicinal Uses

Antispasmodic Cancer Diuretic Emetic Expectorant Poultice Tonic Urinary The whole plant is antispasmodic, diuretic, emetic, expectorant and tonic[21, 46, 218, 222]. An infusion is used in the treatment of diarrhoea, dropsy, gravel and urinary problems[257]. The root is emetic in large doses and expectorant in smaller doses[207]. The root contains berberine, which has been shown to have anti-tumour activity[218]. A poultice of the plant is applied to sores, ulcers and inflamed parts[257].

Known Hazards

None known