Boneset is a perfect example
of a plant used for medicinal purposes as well as magical ones. This
fall harvest stimulates immunity and takes on swellings, colds and
congestion. As a stimultant, febrifuge & laxative, it works best
with illnesses associated with the liver, bowel, stomach and uterus.
It's general use as a tonic to combat rheumatism and cold is well known.
From
the roots a decoction is made and used in a steam bath to settle or
clear out spirits from the body of a person. The Gullah people use this
to treat pneumonia. The Choctaw and Chickasaw tribes called this plant
something that scares spirits away.
