Stone Root - Collinsonia canadensis - Herbal Medicine Benefits, Uses & Side Effects

Collinsonia root, also known as stone root, is a perennial herb native to eastern parts of North America. It's touted as an effective herbal remedy for a variety of ailments including hemorrhoids, digestive conditions and upper respiratory tract problems. The stone root has a lemon scent and it comes from the same family as mint. Although people reportedly use all parts of the herb, the root is most commonly used and believed to offer the most powerful benefits. It has a dark brown and a knotty texture, a very hard exterior and a pungent odour. The stone root is often praised for its sedative and muscle relaxant effects. It's generally promoted as an effective natural treatment for pain or various digestive, urinary or respiratory problems. It can be sourced as a whole herb, a tea, a tincture or a liquid extract. The stone root is said to offer a variety of health benefits. For instance, it's thought to contain saponins and flavonoids, two compounds that can help to treat hemorrhoids. Hemorrhoids are swollen veins in the lower rectum. Older medical reports suggest the stone root suppositories can improve blood flow between your gut and your liver, thus alleviating the hemorrhoids. In addition, recent research suggests the anti-inflammatory compounds in the stone root can be useful in the management of Alzheimer's disease. More specifically, the stone root contains polyphenols, thymol and carbacrol, all of which may prevent the breakdown of a key enzyme involved in the onset of Alzheimer's disease. Older case reports suggest the root can reduce anal inflammation, spasms and prolapses, as well as relieve abdominal or pelvic symptoms caused by these conditions. The root is also reported to increase the urine flow, to reduce spasms and relax the ureters, and this is believed to help to pass small kidney stones and relieve the associated pain and irritation. Certain reports also claim the root alleviates menstrual and lower back pain, spine problems, stomach acidity, headaches, colic, cramps, indigestions, cough and asthma. However, most case studies and preliminary reports are over 100 years old and they lack the scientific rigor of contemporary studies. Furthermore, most purported benefits have very limited evidence behind them. As such, more research is needed before strong conclusions can be made. Due to the lack of recent scientific studies on the stone root, little data exists on its effective dose. Appropriate doses likely depend on factors like your age, particular ailments and overall health. Very old case reports note that one cup of an infusion, 10 to 60 grains of powdered root, one to three and a half mils of root extract or up to seven mils of tincture are the most common doses, yet more studies would be needed to determine which form and dose, if any, is effective. Based on all reports, the stone root appears to be generally safe in moderation. Small doses purportedly produce a warm sensation in the stomach or the bowels, while larger doses may cause excessive sweating, nausea or repeated vomiting. There's currently little information regarding the safety of stone root for vulnerable populations like infants, children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Therefore, these populations should avoid this herb completely. Furthermore, due to its possible diuretic effects, it might lead to dehydration or interact with certain medications. If you're taking any medication, talk to a health care provider before taking the supplement. Stone root is a herbal remedy touted for a variety of health benefits, including hemorrhoids and kidney stone release. Although it's long been used in Native American medicine, there's very little scientific evidence to support its efficacy. Until more research is conducted, infants, children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid it. Or if you're on medication, you should always speak to a health care provider first. For more on herbs, supplements and natural treatment plans, check out my website.