American Spikenard has long been a staple of North American folk medicine. It is prescribed for upper respiratory tract infections and is considered a specialist remedy—in Western naturopathy, it is typically used as an ingredient in compound mixtures.
Interesting facts about American Spikenard
American Spikenard is an impressive plant—both botanically and culturally.
- It can grow up to 3 meters tall and is hardy in our climate.
- The root is used to flavor root beer.
- In North America, it is also used to treat wounds and digestive problems.
Effects & Properties
Aralia specializes in mucous membranes. Its main active ingredients are essential oils and aralia saponins. Because of its effect on the mucous membranes, it is usually included in complex mixtures—it is not typically used on its own.
Features: anti-inflammatory, anti-inflammatory, expectorant, soothing to the mucous membranes, beneficial for the intestines, soothing.
Applications
Based on its effects on the body’s mucous membranes, several indications have emerged for which Aralia is often considered a remedy in naturopathy.
Aralia racemosa for Asthma
In asthma, the bronchial and lung tissue overreacts—it goes into spasm and the mucous membranes swell. Because Aralia has an expectorant and decongestant effect on the mucous membranes, it is a common ingredient in compound mixtures for asthma. The narrowed airways open up again, the excess mucus can be coughed up, and breathing becomes easier.
American Spikenard for hay fever and allergies
In allergic reactions such as hay fever, the allergen triggers an excessive response from the immune system. The result is swelling of the mucous membranes, accompanied by a runny nose, watery eyes, and the urge to sneeze. Aralia helps regulate the swelling of the mucous membranes and reduces mucus production. The allergic reaction subsides, and hay fever becomes more bearable again.
Aralia racemosa for Coughs & Bronchitis
With coughs and bronchitis, the upper respiratory tract becomes infected—usually by a virus—and becomes inflamed. The mucous membranes swell and produce more mucus—the body tries to cough this up. Aralia helps reduce the amount of mucus and loosen it, so that the airways become clearer again. This usually shortens the duration of the cough, as the mucus cannot build up.
American Spikenard for sore throats
The entire throat and pharynx are lined with mucous membranes. When you catch a virus, this is usually the first area to become inflamed. If you start treatment early enough, there is a chance that the infection will not spread further. Aralia helps the body better manage a sore throat, reduces the amount of mucus produced, and relieves throat pain.
Aralia racemosa for the common cold
A cold affects the mucous membranes of the nose and sinuses. Typically, these membranes become infected with a cold virus, which causes them to swell significantly and produce a lot of mucus. Aralia helps reduce mucus production and loosens existing mucus so that it can be expelled. This significantly reduces the risk of prolonged sinus infections.
Instructions for Use
Homeopathic or spagyric, usually as a component of Complex mixtures. Single doses are uncommon. In acute cases, it may be taken as often as every hour. Therapeutic supervision is recommended.
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding
There is insufficient data available regarding use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Use should be discussed with a doctor or alternative practitioner.
Special feature: mucilaginous plant
American Spikenard is known for its beneficial effects on all the body’s mucous membranes—the respiratory tract, the gastrointestinal tract, and the bladder. This makes it a valuable component of complex formulations for treating related conditions.
Plant Profile
- Scientific name: Aralia racemosa
- Plant family: Araliaceae
- Other names: American spindle tree, grape aralia
- Flowering period: June through August
- Origin: North America
- Toxicity: Not specified (use only in diluted form for therapeutic purposes)
