BISTORT

(Polygonum bistorta)


Part used: root
Properties: astringennt, stypic, antiseptic.
What it affects: bowels, lungs, and stomach.

Preparation and amount
Decoction: simmer 5-15 min. Take 1 tbsp. several times daoly.
Tincture: take 5-15 drops several times daily
Fluid extract: take 1/2-1 tsp. several times daily
Powder: Take 1-5 #0 capsules (5-30 grains) several times daily.

Puposes:
Internally: bistort is a powerful astringent. A teaspoon of the powdered root in a cup of boiling water, steep for 10 minutes and drinking freely several times a day, is a successful treatment for diarrhea,dysentery, and hemorrhages from the lungs and stomach, even bloody diarrhea. It can be used as a wash for internal sores and hemorrhage. A douche can be used for leukorrhea

Externally; bistort is good for sprains, tonsillitis, wounds, and hemorrhoids. The decoction can be used as a mouthwash for gum problems and for inflammations of the mouth(stomatitis). It can be used as gargle for throat infections. When directly applied to a wound, the powder will stop the bleeding.