Asarum caudatum or canadensis
| Wild ginger Asarum caudatum or canadensis |
Wild ginger - Asarum caudatum or canadensis (in the Aristilochiaceae or Birthwort family)
Part used: Root.
Taste/smell: Bitter, acrid.
Tendencies: Warming, stimulating.
Dosage: Infusion: 1/2 - 1 teaspoon per cup of water; or 1:0.95 fresh strength liquid extract: 10-30 drops 1-4 times per day.
Use: (a) Antiviral, (b) Immunomodulator, (c) Diaphoretic.
Wild ginger is used in viral infections, to induce sweating and for crampy and slow-starting menses.
Contraindications: It can cause nausea in some individuals. Wild ginger is contraindicated in pregnancy due to the emmenagogue and abortifacient effects. It should not be used long term or exceed the recommended dosage.