Pleurisy Root
Asclepias tuberosa
PLANT NAME
Pleurisy Root
COMMON NAMES
Butterfly Weed, Orange Swallowwort, Chigger Flower
BOTANICAL NAME
Asclepias tuberosa
IDENTIFICATION
A species of milkweed native to North America. It grows 1 to 2 feet tall with clustered, vibrant orange or yellow flowers and alternate, hairy, lance-shaped leaves. Unlike other milkweeds, its sap is not milky.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Roots.
CULINARY USES
Not traditionally used for food; considered toxic in food quantities.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used extensively by Native Americans and early settlers as an expectorant and to treat respiratory issues, specifically pleurisy, bronchitis, and pneumonia. Promotes sweating and coughing up phlegm.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Grows in dry, sandy or gravelly soils in full sun. Essential for monarch butterflies. The large tuberous root is harvested in the autumn after the seed pods have opened.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Contains cardiac glycosides. Overdose can cause nausea, vomiting, and cardiac arrhythmias. Not for use during pregnancy or by individuals with heart conditions. Always consult your doctor before using.
RELATED PLANTS
Common Milkweed (Asclepias syriaca).