Eupatorium perfoliatum
Perennial wetland plant with paired leaves that appear to be pierced by the stem, and flat clusters of small white flowers.
Origin: Eastern North America
Growing Notes: Full sun to part shade, moist to wet soil.
Traditionally used, as its name suggests, during seasonal wellness challenges accompanied by body aches.
Steep 1-2 tsp dried aerial parts, covered, 10 min; extremely bitter.
Dosage: Tea: 1-2 tsp dried herb per cup, occasional/short-term use only.
Contains trace pyrrolizidine alkaloids (PAs), the same class of liver-affecting compounds found in comfrey — the FDA's 2001 comfrey advisory specifically also named boneset as a PA-containing herb of concern. Use only occasionally and short-term, not as a daily or prolonged tea. Avoid during pregnancy and nursing, and avoid in anyone with liver conditions. Large doses can cause vomiting.
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