Yerba Santa, California yerba santa

Eriodictyon californicum

Physical Characteristics

Eriodictyon californicum is an evergreen Shrub growing to 2.3 m (7ft) by 2 m (6ft). See above for USDA hardiness. It is hardy to UK zone 8. It is in leaf all year, in flower from July to August. The species is hermaphrodite (has both male and female organs). Suitable for: light (sandy) soils and prefers well-drained soil. Suitable pH: mildly acid, neutral and basic (mildly alkaline) soils. It cannot grow in the shade. It prefers dry or moist soil.

Distribution

South-western N. America - Oregon to California.

Habitats

South Wall. By. West Wall. By.

Edible Uses

Edible Parts: Leaves Edible Uses: Condiment Tea The fresh leaves are chewed for their refreshing taste and to relieve thirst[183]. An aromatic sweet tea is made from the fresh or dried leaves[183]. An extract of the leaves is used as a flavouring in baked goods, sweets, ice cream and soft drinks[183].

Medicinal Uses

Antiasthmatic Expectorant Pectoral Tonic Yerba Santa (the name means Holy weed) is a famous domestic remedy from south-western N. America where it is considered to be especially useful as an expectorant[238]. It is an ingredient of many patent cough medicines[238]. The leaves are an aromatic pleasant tasting tonic herb that reduces spasms, expels phlegm and lowers fevers[238, 254]. They are especially recommended for treating diseases of the chest and respiratory system, including asthma, and are also used in the treatment of hay fever[4, 200, 238]. A bitter tea made from the leaves has been much used as a bitter tonic and a stimulating balsamic expectorant[207, 213]. A steam bath made from the branches and leaves has been used in the treatment of rheumatism[257]. A decoction of the leaves has been used as a wash for sore areas and painful fatigued limbs[257]. A natural mouthwash is prepared by rolling the leaves into balls and allowing them to dry in the sun[213]. These are then chewed and at first have a bitter flavour but this is soon replaced by a sweetness if a drink of water is taken[213]. The leaves are harvested in the summer and dried for later use[238]. The plant has been smoked as a remedy for asthma[213].

Known Hazards

Not recommended during breast feeding or pregnancy. Iron & other minerals absorption can be effected by Yerba Santa [301].