Bayberry Root
Also known as- Myrica cerifera, wild cinnamon, Candleberry, Myrica, Myrica cerifera, Myrica pensylvanica, Southern Bayberry, Southern Wax Myrtle, Tallow Shrub, Vegetable Tallow, Waxberry. Not to be confused with barberry.
Introduction
Bayberry is a marshland plant of the eastern United States. Growing 3 to 8 feet (75 to 200 cm) high, it has lance-shaped, waxy, green leaves, tiny flowers, and globular berries of numerous grains coated in green wax. The leaves release an intense, pleasant fragrance when rubbed. This scent is a safe insect repellent for dogs.
Constituents
Alpha-pinene, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, betulin, calcium, chromium, cobalt, fiber, gallic acid, magnesium, manganese, myricitrin, niacin, phenolic acid, tannins and tannic acid.
Parts Used
Dried leaves and leaf fragments, mixtures frequently include flowers.
Typical Preparations
Powders, teas, tinctures, and poultices. The tea should be drunk hot. Poultices are usually made by combining bayberry and slippery elm.
Summary
The original use of bayberry was in treating "cankers," at one time understood to be accumulations of cold at various sites in the body. Tannins make bayberry bark astringent, sealing over sites of inflammation and infection in the mouth, gums, and throat, and stimulant, inducing productive coughs that release phlegm. An alcoholic tincture of the bark may reduce sensitivity of the prostate to testosterone; research is ongoing.
Precautions
For occasional use only. Since bayberry can stimulate uterine contractions, avoid during pregnancy. If you are allergic to bayberry wax, use with caution.
