Medicinal Plants : Alnus rubra

Name

Red Alder

Biological Name

Alnus rubra

Other Names

Oregon alder, red alder

Description

Red alder grows as a shrub or tree. It has elliptic- ovate leaves that are dark green on top and rusty-haired underneath. It is found in evergreen and redwood forests from Northern California to Alaska.

Parts Used

bark, leaves

Remedies For

Astringent, bitter, emetic, hemostatic

Fresh alder bark will cause vomiting, so use dried bark except for emetic purposes.

A decoction of the bark makes a good gargle for sore throat and pharyngitis. The powdered bark and the leaves have been used as an internal astringent and tonic, and the bark also as an internal and external haemostatic against hemorrhage. Boiling the inner bark in vinegar produces a useful external wash for lice and for skin problems such as scabies and scabs. It can be used to clean your teeth.

Dosage

Decoction: Boil 1 tsp. bark or leaves in I cup water. For internal use, take 1 to 2 cups a day, in mouthful doses.

Tincture: A dose is from 1/2 to 1 tsp.

Powder: A dose is from 8 to 12 grains.

Safety

Some herbs are known to react with your medication. Please consult your physician before starting on any herb.