Grindelia herb refers to grindelia squarrosa, which is only one species about about 25 or so that botanists have classified under the genus grindelia, a group of resinous perennial shrubs native to the western U.S. and South America. The grindelia squarrosa plant can be identified by its triangular leaves and bright, orange-yellow flowers that resemble daisies. Powder grindelia herb that is sold here at Starwest is also known as hardy grindelia, California gum plant, rosin weed and scaly grindelia. Like other wildcrafted herbs, this plant was virtually unknown to medical science prior to the 19th Century, when Dr. C.A. Canfield of San Francisco first used sliced grindelia herb to treat patients.
Grindelia herb is among those dried herbs that are traditionally used as homeopathic remedies; leaves of the grindelia squarrosa plant are prepared as a tincture. Herbalists and American Indian shamans have used extract of organic grindelia herb as well as other Native American herbs as an expectorant and in the treatment of other respiratory ailments. According to modern herbalists, grindelia herb is one of the natural herbs that may desensitize nerve endings in the bronchial passage and slow the heart rate, aiding the ability to breathe in patients suffering from bronchitis, asthma and chest cold.
Tincture of grindelia herb is among the medicinal herbs that have also been used in the topical treatment of burn injuries and genito-urinary tract disorders.
Claims about the benefits of grendelia herb and other
organic herbs have not been scientifically proven, and grindelia squarrosa is not approved as a remedy by the FDA. Although non-toxic when taken in recommended doses, there is a risk of interactions with pharmaceutical (prescription or OTC) medications with many herbs. The effects of grendelia herb on pregnant or lactating women and young children as well as those suffering from kidney or liver disease is not known.
