Herb Series: Sagebrush (Wild Medicinals)

6/28/2021

Artemisia tridentata
Family: Composite/Asteraceae (wormwood and mugwort)
Parts Used: Leaves, stems, flowers and seeds.

Sagebrush grows all over the Rocky Mountains where I live. This plant is a relative of wormwood and will carry all of the healing benefits of that plant, but with more potency.

Actions and Properties

antibacterial
antifungal
anti-inflammatory
antiviral
anti tumor
antiparasitical
antiseptic
antibiotic

definitions

Healing Benefits

Fungal problems such as nail fungus, athlete's foot, jock itch, ring worm, etc.
Bacterial and viral infections of all kinds, including pneumonia, candida, E.coli, staph, MRSA, strep, etc.
Cuts, wounds, sores, boils, acne, etc. (wash or poultice).
Emetic when made with a strong decoction.
Stomach cramps and indigestion.
Helps with liver problems.
Respiratory issues such as bronchitis, pneumonia, coughs, etc.
Sinus and head colds.
Stimulates uterine circulation, useful for suppressed menstruation or cramping.
Sore throat, mouth sores and diseases such as gingivitis (gargle).
Headache and pain reliever (compress or poultice over area).
Radiation poisoning.
Air purifier (hang bundles in a room or smoke a bundle).
Hygiene: rub fresh leaves under arms for deodorant, powder for a body or tooth powder.

Methods of Use

Because of the potency and bitter taste of this herb, it is best to start with a small amount of herb per water when making a tea for drinking. I do about 1 teaspoon per pint of water and that is still pretty potent. Think beyond just an herbal tea when using this plant, a poultice or compress and bath are good ways to use this herb without needing to drink the bitter tea.

Tea (infusion for drinking, decoction for washes, gargle, or compress)
Oil
Salve, ointment
Tincture/syrup
Powder; capsules, body powder (also good for diaper rash or sores).
Bath, foot soak, steam inhalation.
Smoke for purification (tie dried stems in a bundle and burn).

how to prepare herbs

Wildcrafting/Harvesting

Found in dry, sandy and gravely soils, high valleys, slopes and desert land. Very aromatic. Can be harvested anytime by "pruning" branches. Use immediately in a preparation or dry for future use.

Caution

Artemisia species stimulate uterine circulation so its best not to take during pregnancy. Some individuals may have an allergic reaction to this plant such as contact dermatitis and hay fever.

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