Boneset – Eupatorium perfoliatum

Family: Asteraceae

Common Names: Thoroughwort, Agueweed, Feverwort, Sweatingplant, Crosswort, Eupatorium, Feverwort, Woodboneset, Gravelroot, Indian Sage, Sweating Plant, Teasel…

Growing Region: a very common plant in low meadows and damp ground in North America, extending from Nova Scotia to Florida and Texas through North Dakota.

Description

Stem appears to be growing through the middle of leaves which are opposite each other and joined at the base. Hairy, wrinkly and stiff. Grows from 2 to 6 feet high. Boneset’s leaves have a wrinkled texture, and pairs of leaves are united at the base. Boneset leaves were once used in bandages for broken bones. The flowers are several crowded into small white heads. The clusters of tiny flowers attract butterflies and many small insects.

Harvesting/Drying:

Part used: herb

After harvest, remove all foreign matter (rocks, weeds and vines) and spread in a thin layer immediately. Dry your herbs and leaves in the shade to keep their green color. By spreading out your botanicals in a thin layer allowing air flow will help prevent mold. Once dry do no allow your botanicals to get wet again.

Boneset can be dried outdoors though it needs to be dried out of the sun. At night cover the Boneset to keep the dew from setting on the drying herb. When possible dry indoors in a well ventilated barn loft or attic to protect against the elements. If natural heat is not available you may need to add heat and a fan for continuous airflow. Whether you dry indoors or outdoors you will need to turn the herb daily. The key to drying any root, herb or bark in an even combination of heat and airflow. Never use an oven or microwave.

Cultivating: Seeds or cuttings. Take cuttings before the plant has flowered. Seeds will germinate without stratification, but will germinate better with stratification. Germination time is typically 2-3 weeks. Older plants (usually form a clump) can be divided and replanted in the spring. Recommend planting on 18 to 24 inch centers, with row spacing of 24 to 30 inches.

Attribute (Images):

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