 |
Bistort is one of the strongest astringents in the herbal kingdom, and because of its high tannin content, the herb in folk medicine has been used for diarrhea (even bloody diarrhea), dysentery, bedwetting, hemorrhoids, colitis, vomiting, cholera, smallpox, measles, skin eruptions, canker sores and mouth infections. In folk medicine Bistort is also used to control or stop bleeding when used internally and externally (cuts). When used internally, it is said to treat bleeding ulcers, decrease and regulate excessive menstrual bleeding, and stanch nosebleeds and hemorrhaging from the lungs and stomach. Bistort is considered a fine herbal diaphoretic that promotes heavy sweating, which not only cools the body and reduces fever, but also helps to drive out poisons from the body through the skin. As an herbal diuretic, Bistort further helps to clear toxins and infection from the system by promoting urine flow, and Bistort's antiseptic qualities additionally help to drive out infection in the increased urine. This has been especially useful in cases of cystitis, vaginal discharge and other urinary tract infections. Bistort has been used in mouthwashes to ease inflammation of the mouth. Its astringency and anti-inflammatory qualities are said to treat spongy gums, loose teeth, laryngitis, pharyngitis and ulcerated tonsils. The herb is also thought to soothe the inflammation of running sores and insect bites.
|
|
