Gravel Root goes by numerous aliases; in addition to its scientific name, eupatorium purpureum , it is commonly known as gravelweed, kidneywort, purple boneset and jopai weed – reportedly after an Algonquin Indian from New England whose name was Jopai (“Joe Pye”), a shaman who became known for curing typhoid fever with the use of Native American herbs like cut gravel root.
Eupatorium purpureum is among wildcrafted herbs that are native to the wetlands and meadowlands of North America's Atlantic and Gulf Coasts, an area that stretches from Newfoundland to Texas. The plant from which dried herbs such as gravel root is taken produces a woody, fibrous rootstock and a hollow stem, producing serrated leaves and flowers that range in color from deep purple to pale lavender.
According to traditional herbalism,
powdered gravel root is among natural herbs that are commonly used for a wide range of pelvic issues ranging from urinary difficulties and kidney disorders to reproductive toning, menstrual problems and inflammation of the prostate.
Gravel root is used in its powdered and dried form; like other organic herbs, it may be taken in a capsule or prepared as a decoction and drunk as a form of tea. Native American women would sip this decoction during childbirth in order to ease labor pains.
Although historical evidence for the benefits of herbs such as bulk gravel root is abundant, these claims have not been proven scientifically; the use of eupatorium purpureum has not been endorsed by the FDA. Persons using gravel root or other bulk herbs for medicinal or therapeutic purposes should do so under the guidance of a licensed herbalist or naturopath.
