Herb · Asia
Little ironweed
Vernonia cinerea
Traditionally attributed effects: fever-reducing, induces sweating, cleansing; decoction promotes sweating in fever; seeds antidote, expel worms, for leprosy and chronic skin diseases; plant for bladder cramps, difficult urination, haemorrhoids; flowers for conjunctivitis.
Safety notes
Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Ayurvedic materia medica: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
Preparation
Tea 14–28 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; seed powder 0.5–1 g; leaf compress.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica. Sanskrit name: Sahadevi. A small, common herb that in Kerala belongs to the ten sacred herbs (dashapushpam) that women wear in their hair. It is used for fever and skin diseases.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Fever-reducing, induces sweating, cleansing; decoction promotes sweating in fever; seeds antidote, expel worms, for leprosy and chronic skin diseases; plant for bladder cramps, difficult urination, haemorrhoids; flowers for conjunctivitis; root for oedema.
Preparation and amount
Tea 14–28 ml; decoction 56–112 ml; seed powder 0.5–1 g; leaf compress.
Caution: Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
- Ways to prepare herbs
- Tea (infusion)DecoctionCompress, poultice and pastePowder and kitchen