Skunk cabbage or polecat weed is a member of the Araceae family. The roots of the signature species S. foetidus contain volatile oils, resins and a slightly narcotic substance called 5-hydroxytryptamine which is an alkaloid found in a few other plants. The pharmacology of action has yet to be ascertained.
The root hairs were used by North American tribes people to stem bleeding whilst they inhaled the crushed leaves to reduce headaches.
Properties:
- Has a pungent, warming action.
- Expectorant
- Diuretic
- Increases perspiration
Uses:
Internally taken for bronchitis, asthma, whooping cough, catarrh, hay fever and irritating coughs. The rhizomes and roots are used.
Combines well with Grindelia camporum and Euphorbia hirta for treating bronchitis and asthma.
Contraindications
Causes vomiting if taken too frequently or in too large a quantity although this has yet to be defined.
Growth
Grown as an ornamental and very hardy. It prefers deep rich humus and moist soil which is acidic or rather lime-free. Lives in sun or part shade. Tolerates a minimum of -35°C.
Propagate by seed, kept wet until sown in autumn of spring because it germinates in the latter season. Plants can be divided during the dormant growing period but it does not enjoy this sort of radical change. The roots and rhizomes are lifted during dormancy and dried for use in various decoctions, infusions, liquid extracts, powders and tinctures.
I was looking for herbal remedies based on this plant but I really struggle to access any. I hear it is really good at treating asthma but is there any truth about this plant. I dont trust the medicines now after I had such a nasty bout of sickness from them. Any information would be really helpful. By the way, does the yellow and white leaved skunk cabbage have the same effects. We grow it in the pond in Cannon Beach.