Picking apart the uses of plant roots in herbal infusions, teas and tisanes.
Together we will discuss the medicinal benefits of using dried and fresh roots from various plants listed below. These can be combined with leaves, flowers, seeds and bark to create a range of tisanes for various health and mood concerns as well as illness prevention.
**As with most medicinal herbs, please check with your health care practioner, naturopath or homeopath if your are pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications or have allergies before consuming these herbs**
For fast-tracking click on a root:
Ashwagandha Root, Astragalus Root, Black Cohosh Root, Burdock Root, Chicory Root, Dandelion Root, Dong Quai Root, Ginger (root), Ginseng (root), Liquorice Root, Marshmallow Root, Sarsaparilla Root, Turmeric (root), Valerian Root
Ashwagandha Root
Also known as: Withania, Indian Ginseng and Winter Cherry (in Australia)
The ashwagandha plant is an evergreen shrub with yellow flowers that is native to Southeast Asia, parts of Africa and also India. The species name, somnifera, translates from Latin to mean sleep-inducing. The name ashwagandha is derived from Sanskrit, when translated its meaning is 'smell of the horse', both for its strong horse-like smell of the roots and its said ability to increase strength. But what ashwagandha is most commonly known for, and used for, is to reduce stress and anxiety by calming the brain and lowering blood pressure. Because of this, ashwagandha is classified as a powerful adaptogenic herb and is perfect for those who suffer from insomnia or have sleep issues as well those who suffer from mental stress and depression (counteracting adrenal exhaustion). However, it doesn't end there, ashwagandha has also been used to combat the signs of ageing, support the immune system, reduce pain and inflammation, increase fertility in men, increase thyroid activity and help regulate menstruations.
Drinking a cup of Ashwagandha tea a day for six months is considered safe for human consumption. It is recommended to take a break for three months before commencing again. If you choose to drink ashwagandha recreationally (on and off) then no break is needed. Consult your local naturopath or homeopath for advice.
Astragalus Root
Also known as: Milk Vetch and Huang Qi
The astragalus plant comes from a type of bean or legume with hairy stems and leaves native to China, Mongolia and Korea. While there are multiple species of astragalus, most supplements contain the astragalus membranaceous plant. Very popular in Chinese medicine and called Huang Qi, meaning 'yellow life energy', astragalus root has been mainly used to treat those with heart conditions or to maintain a healthy heart by widening blood vessels to allow for an increase in blood flow from the heart. Another popular use for astragalus in China, is to aid those with type 2 diabetes as it improves sugar metabolism and lowers blood sugar levels. To continue with the great benefits of astragalus, it may also aid with proteinuria (increased protein in urine) with those suffering from kidney disease and may also prevent infection in those with compromised kidneys. And of course astragalus is classified as an adaptogenic herb as it aids in relieving the body from physical and mental stress, as well as being an antioxidant that protects against cell damage and stimulates the immune system to protect against colds and upper respiratory infections. It may also balance oestrogen levels in the body and strengthen your reproductive system.
Drinking a cup of astragalus root tea a day is considered safe, as well as drinking it recreationally. For the treatment of severe health conditions consult a naturopath or homeopath who will guide you with stronger dosages.
Black Cohosh Root
Also known as: Black Bugbane, Black Snakeroot and Fairy Candle
The black cohosh plant (Actaea Racemosa) comes from the Ranunculaceae family with herbaceous tall white spires of wildflowers and deep green foliage that has an odour that repels some insects. Black cohosh is native to eastern North America where forests are moist and deciduous.
Women can rejoice, as this root is used to treat the painful symptoms associated with menopause, peri-menopause and post-menopause by binding the body's opioid receptors, giving it a painkilling effect. Therefore, recently is has been used to combat 'hot flashes' and night sweats with possible positive results for vaginal dryness, vertigo, sleep disturbances, tinnitus and heart palpitations. In women it is said to increase oestrogen levels where menopause causes a decrease. Traditionally, in Chinese medicine, black cohosh is used to specifically reduce pain for arthritis and related muscle problems, menstrual (period) cramps, nervous spasms and musculoskeletal pains and spasms.
Drinking a cup of black cohosh root tea a day is considered safe for up to one year. If using to combat severe pain and menopause a stronger does may be needed, consult your naturopath or homeopath who will assist you in determining the right dosage.
Burdock Root
Also known as: Arctium, Beggar's Button, Burr Seed, Bardana, Bogo Root, Clotbur
The burdock plant is part of the Asteraceae (daisy) family and is native to Northern Asia and Europe, but can now be typically found all over the world as a wild weed. Burdock is a tall plant with large heart-shaped leaves, sticky fruit covered in spiky burrs and purple thistle-like flowers. With long thick deep roots, similar to the look of carrots, burdock root is actually enjoyed raw or freshly cooked as a vegetable in Asia, however it is also very commonly used in Chinese Medicine in its dried form as a tea or decoction. Its main use it to detoxify the blood in our body, therefore burdock has been dubbed the "blood purifier" by aiding the lymphatic system with drainage and detoxification of lymph nodes, making it the optimum root to ward off disease. It is said burdock has active ingredients that are known to rid the body of heavy metals which aid the liver and kidneys in detoxification. It also promotes blood circulation to the skins surface, which improves skin health. Combine this with burdocks natural anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and antioxidant properties, burdock root has been used to treat various skin conditions like acne and eczema. A last wonderful use for burdock root is its aid in reducing inflammation and lowering oxidative stress related to osteoarthritis making the ageing-life just a little be easier each day.
Do not take burdock root if you have allergies pertaining to the asteraceae/compositae family (ragweed, daisies, chrysanthemums, or marigolds)
Drinking a cup of burdock root tea a day is considered safe. Some even drink up to three cups depending on what the burdock is needed to combat. For strong dosages consult a naturopath or homeopath for assistance.
Chicory Root
Also known as: Blue Weed, Blue Sailor, Succory, Wild Bachelor's Buttons and Wild Endive
The chicory plant is a perennial herbaceous somewhat woody plant of the Asteraceae family with bright blue flowers. Chicory is native to Europe where its fleshy root is boiled and eaten with butter and its leaves used to make salads (similar to leafy greens). Chicory root is a rich source of water-soluble fibre called inulin and is usually added to foods to increase the fibre content and help promote healthy digestion. Chicory root is also a prebiotic that helps to feed the good bacteria in your gut, therefore it can aid those with constipation by also releasing bile from the gallbladder to the bowels. Chicory root has also been shown to help those with type 2 diabetes, as it appears to help reduce blood pressure, improve glucose and calcium stability and aid in liver function. Chicory may also aid in weight loss, in alleviating kidney damage by lowering uric acid levels and releiving inflammation associated with arthritis.
Dried chicory root when roasted gives a dark nutty and bitter flavour when steeped, making it (for some) a perfect healthier substitute for coffee and possibly black tea (eliminating caffeine). These days, roasted chicory root is easily found in your local health food store whereas the raw dried chicory root is a little harder to come by (not as widely sort after), however is just as beneficial.
Drinking a cup of chicory root tea a day is considered safe. When considering it as an inulin powder consult your naturopath or doctor for the correct dosage, especially if you want to treat severe health issues.
Dandelion Root
Also known as: Lion's tooth, Monks-head, Priest's Crown, Puff-ball, Cankerwort
The dandelion plant is one of the most common weeds found in your backyard, with bright yellow flowers stemming from a flat rosette of leaves. When fully matured the flowers become the joy of children with fluffy white balls of seeds. Dandelion is part of the Asteraceae family and has similar usages to chicory and burdock. Dandelion root is also roasted and used as a healthy coffee substitute like chicory. The root is also a high source of inulin like chicory and thus has the same benefits. However, dandelion root is also known for its ability to detoxify like burdock by aiding in the cleansing of the liver (releasing bile) and in the removal of kidney stones by helping the body to break them up for easy passing through the body. Dandelion root has also been shown to aid in the prevention and treatment of certain types of cancer (it's worth looking into) and aid in reducing cholesterol and lowering blood pressure. This is only a glimpse into the health benefits of dandelion, as the leaves and flowers also have their own function on the body, which makes dandelion one of the most versatile plants and an overall fully body healer.
Drinking one to three cups of dandelion root tea a day is considered safe. For use to fight diseases and illness consult your local naturopath or homeopath for the correct dosages and strengths.
Dong Quai Root
Also known as: Female Ginseng, Angelica Sinensis, Chinese Angelica Root
The dong quai plant grows at high altitudes in the mountains of China, Korea and Japan. This fragrant plant with small clusters of umbrella-shaped white flowers, is part of the perennial family like carrots and celery, with the yellow-brown thick branched roots used in traditional Chinese medicine. It is dubbed as the "female ginseng" because of over a thousand years of usage to aid women after childbirth, during and after menstruation for issues relating to premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and cramps, as well as the symptoms of menopause (hot flashes). Dong quai root is also known to benefit those with high blood pressure, heart conditions, inflammation, headaches, nerve pain, infections, kidney and liver problems and constipation due to it containing compounds that reduce pain, open blood vessels and stimulate and relax the muscles of the uterus. Dong quai is usually taken in conjunction with Black Cohosh and other medicinal herbs so it is best to consult a traditional Chinese medicine practitioner to understand how to take this root safely and correctly.
Drinking a cup of dong quai root tea a day is considered safe for up to six months, however this root has not been widely used in the western world and little is really known about it. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse side affects.
Ginger (Root)
Also know as: Rhizome
The ginger plant is a herbaceous perennial plant of the Zingiberaceae family with one meter tall narrow leaf blades with upright shell flowers and pungent aromatic rhizomes (what we call ginger root). Native to Asia, ginger root has been used in Chinese and Indian medicine for thousands of years. The main two components in ginger are gingerol (greater in fresh ginger) and shogoals (greater in dry ginger) as well as being very high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory. Therefore, ginger root is known to reduce age related oxidative stress (aids in healthy organ functions), relieve nausea (also for post cancer treatment and morning sickness), combat seasickness (and related issues), aid in healthy digestion (indigestion and overall gut health), aid in pain relief (from menstrual cramping and osteoarthritis), lower cholesterol levels, improve brain function (protect against alzheimers), keep your gums healthy by fighting bacteria (gum disease), boost immunity (preventing disease) and lastly, prevent and fight some forms of cancer. It's safe to say that adding ginger into your diet holds vast benefits for the body and it's so easy to come by.
Drinking a cup (or two) of ginger root tea a day (fresh or dried) is considered safe. You can consume a stronger dosage but consult your local naturopath to be cautious.
Ginseng (root)
Also known as: Korean Ginseng, Asian Ginseng, Chinese Ginseng
Surprisingly there are actually three types of ginseng used worldwide, although only one is considered true ginseng and that is Asian ginseng (Panax Ginseng), the other two being Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus Senticosus) and American ginseng (Panax Quinquefolius). For simplicity we will only be discussing the benefits of Asian ginseng here, although the other two are considered quite similar in characteristics.
Ginseng is a very slow growing plant with oval shaped green leaves on short stalks with the root resembling the shape of a human body. The root is harvested after several years, usually between 4-6, and depending on how it is dried we get white ginseng and red ginseng. With white ginseng, the skin in removed and dried in the sun, whereas with red ginseng, the whole root is used (with skin) and is steamed at a high temperature then dried giving it its red colouring. The main two components found in ginseng are ginsenosides and gintonin giving this root its amazing health benefits. Ginseng is known to increase energy by stimulating mental and physical activity, while also reducing oxidative stress. It also boosts cognitive function by reducing brain fog and aids in the brain function and behaviour of those with Alzheimer's disease. Ginseng has strong immune boosting qualities with the treatment and prevention of influenza and cancer. Lastly, ginseng has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that aid in reducing free radicals in the cells and lowering blood sugar for those with diabetes.
Drinking a cup of ginseng root tea a day is considered safe, however, long term use diminishes the effect of ginseng on the body, therefore consider taking a break every 2-3 weeks for 1-2 weeks or drink it sparingly. Also refrain from drinking ginseng at night, best drunk in the morning. For stronger dosages consult your local naturopath or homeopath.
Liquorice Root
Also known as: Sweetwood, Black Sugar, Mulaith, Sweet Root, Licorice
The liquorice root plant, common name being Glycyrrhiza Glabra, is a herbaceous perennial legume from the bean family Fabaceae. With beautiful mauve pea-shaped flowers and long oblong fruit pods that contain several seeds, this shrub is used specifically for its deep roots. These roots contain compounds that influence its strong sweet taste and smell that most of us are probably familiar with (jelly beans, liquorice bullets etc.), although commonly now the flavouring in lollies is made with aniseed (not even a close relation) instead. Therefore, originally liquorice root was used in a wide variety of sweets and as a flavouring for tobacco, so if your want the true liquorice flavour look for this root as the ingredient.
The main compound in liquorice root is glycyrrhizin, a form of plant glycoside (saponin) that is 30-50 times sweeter than sucrose which has no effect on the glycemic index and would be a sweetener substitute if not for its strong liquorice flavour. Because of this compound, liquorice root has been used in traditional medicine to treat stomach upsets, sore throats, inflammation and upper respiratory problems. Thus in contemporary society, it has been reported that liquorice root has been used to treat stomach (peptic) ulcers (related to an increase in the H. pylori bacterium), issues related to indigestion (heartburn, acid reflux and GERD), in the treatment of asthma, strep throat and sore throats, in the prevention of tooth cavities and decay (by fighting the Streptococcus mutans bacteria), in the treatment of Hepatitis C and liver disease, as well as possibly aiding in menopausal symptoms (hot flashes).
Drinking a cup of liquorice root tea a day is considered safe, it is when you go beyond this that liquorice root may pose some health issues. It is recommended to take a break after a couple of months and then start again, however is you drink it sparingly then no break is necessary. Consult your local naturopath or homeopath if you would like to use liquorice root to treat health concerns.
Marshmallow Root
Also known as: Mallards, Mortification Root, Cheeses, White Mallow, Schloss Tea, Mallow
The marshmallow plant is a herbaceous perennial plant that is native to Northern Africa, Western Asia and Europe with the botanical name Althaea Officinalis. Typically found at the edge of sandy marshes, this pale-lilac to white flowering plant with soft velvety leaves and large seed pods that resemble cheese wheels, is widely used for it's long tap roots.
These roots are high in mucilage, a sap-like substance that the plant produces, which is traditionally used for the soothing of irritated mucous membranes in the body. Therefore, marshmallow root has been used to treat coughs from colds, bronchitis and respiratory tract diseases by loosening mucous and inhibiting bacteria, for the alleviation of chronic dry mouth (xerostomia) from the use of medication or other diseases that cause diminished saliva production, for the prevention and treatment of gastric/peptic ulcers by protecting the mucous lining of the stomach thus aiding also in leaky gut syndrome, for the relief of digestive issues like heartburn, diarrhoea, constipation and indigestion due to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory mucilage, and lastly as a topical skin treatment of UV damaged skin after sun exposure, as well as eczema and dermatitis.
Drinking one cup of marshmallow root tea a day is considered safe. It is recommended every two weeks to have a week break. If you are drinking it sparingly then no break is needed. Discontinue use if you experience any adverse reactions.
Sarsaparilla Root
Also known as: Smilaxes, Catbriers, Greenbriers
The sarsaparilla plant is a tropical vine in the genus Smilax, with small red edible berries, heart shaped leaves and starchy roots. Many species of Smilax plants fall into the sarsaparilla category, therefore as long as the sarsaparilla root you have is part of this family then you have the correct plant. It is important to not confuse this with Indian sarsaparilla (Hemidesmus indicus) which is another plant entirely and is referred to as fake sarsaparilla, although Indian Sarsaparilla does have its own benefits too.
Sarsaparilla root contains saponins, plant sterols and flavonoid antioxidants that give this plant its great health benefits. Therefore, sarsaparilla has been used to treat those with rheumatoid arthritis due to its potent anti-inflammatory (saponin) properties and relieving associated pain and the swelling caused by gout. The root also supports liver and kidney health by lowering oxidative stress and detoxifying by binding endotoxins to the GI tract. These endotoxins if absorbed back into the blood can lead to liver disease, arthritis, gout and psoriasis, hence why sarsaparilla root is used as a detoxifier. Evidence also shows that sarsaparilla root aids in healing skin lesions caused by psoriasis and has shown to have cancer fighting properties by inhibiting cancer-cell growth.
Drinking a cup (or more) of sarsaparilla root tea a day is considered safe. There is no reported limit on it, however it is always best not to over do it. For strong dosages consult a naturopath or homeopath for advice.
Turmeric (root)
Also known as: Curcumin, Curcuma, Indian Saffron
The turmeric plant, with the botanical name Curcuma Longa, is a perennial tropical plant of the ginger family. With creamy white flowers in upward floral spikes and long strappy leaves, turmeric is used for its rhizomes (roots). Turmeric is native to India and parts of South Asia and has been used for over a thousand years to treat health ailments, as well as a ceremonial paste and a dye for clothing.
The most important compound in turmeric that gives it its most beneficial healing properties is curcumin, an active ingredient that has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, for curcumin to be absorbed by the body properly another ingredient is needed, and that is piperine, a bioactive compound found in black pepper. Because of turmerics strong anti-inflammatory ability, it is ideal in reducing oxidative stress that can lead to many chronic diseases, thus it has been used for conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBS), pancreatitis and arthritis. Studies with curcumin have shown anit-arthritic effects with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Curcumin has also been shown to aid with depression and Alzheimer's disease due to it reported ability to increase brain levels of BDNF protein (brain-derived neurotrophic factor) which are lowered by these conditions. Lastly, turmeric is also used to help prevent heart disease, to treat skin conditions like psoriasis, acne and eczema, and in fighting cancer.
Drinking a cup of turmeric root tea a day (fresh or dry) is considered safe. Consult your local naturopath or homeopath if you would like to take stronger dosages.
Valerian Root
Also known as: Setwall, Garden Heliotrope, Baldrian, All-heal
The valerian plant, botanical name Valeriana Officinalis, is a perennial plant native to Europe and Asia, with small lightly sweet-smelling pale pink/white flowers. The origin of the name valerian comes from the Latin word Valere which means, "to be strong, healthy". A small downside is the roots strong smell can be off-putting for some people, therefore it is recommended it be combined with another herb to make it palatable. When purchasing valerian root, most products will have 'sleep aid' on the packaging and essentially that is what it is mainly used for, however there are also other great benefits that valerian root can have on conditions that call for a 'calming' effect. Therefore, valerian root has been used to treat those with insomnia, anxiety, stress and depression because of the valerenic acid and valerenol compounds found that increase levels of GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid), a neurotransmitter that reduces brain-cell activity, as well as antioxidant flavonoids (Hesperidin and Linarin) that have sleep enhancing effects. These may also aid those with ADHD and OCD disorders as some research has shown positive results. Lastly, valerian root has also been used for menopausal symptoms such as hot-flashes and for alleviating menstrual cramping and PMS behavioural symptoms.
Do not take valerian root for long periods of time or at strong dosages (the body can become addicted).
Drinking a cup of valerian root tea a day is considered safe, however due to its addictive nature and the body becoming used to this substance, it is recommended to have a break after 1-2 months for at least 2-3 weeks. Consult your local naturopath or homeopath for correct dosages when treating health issues.
A last note...
Although the roots discussed above are the most common you will find, there are still more out there in the world. Most likely there will be a part 2 to this blog but for now I hope you find this informative enough to continue your own research and determine what is best suited for you. Always consult a health care professional when treating health issues, the information above is not meant to be a treatment or cure, but a guide. I hope you will enjoy the benefits of herbal roots for tisanes just as much as I do.
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