Habitat: Canada.

Collection: Roots and rhizome are unearthed in the autumn.

Part Used: Root and rhizome.

Constituents: * Essential oil * Tannins * Saponins * Alkaloid * Resins * Organic acid
In the root there is resin, starch, mucilage and wax. In the leaves, resin, tannin, wax and volatile oil. The alkaloid discovered in the root appears to be a magnesium salt.

Actions: Sedative, anti-lithic, antispasmodic, astringent, tonic, diaphoretic, diuretic.

Indications: As its name suggests, Stone Root finds its main use in the treatment and prevention of stone and gravel in the urinary system and the gall-bladder. It can be used as a prophylactic but is also excellent when the body is in need of help in passing stones of gravel. It is also a strong diuretic.

Ellingwood gives the following symptomatology: "In piles with a sense of fullness, or of a foreign body in the rectum, in all relaxed conditions of the mucous membranes of the lower bowel, Collinsonia is the remedy. It works more promptly if there is a passive congestion with blueness or dark coloration of the membranes, showing imperfect venous capillary circulation. Collinsonia is given where there is a sensation of constriction, heat and weight in the rectum; where there is deficient secretion from imperfect capillary circulation in the mucous membranes, the patient passing the feces in the form of dry scybala."

In his extensive monograph, Ellingwood gives the following indications: "Hemorrhoids, catarrhal gastritis, pain in the rectum, hearttonic, rheumatic inflammation, laryngitis, pharyngitis, clergyman's sore throat, dysentery, ulcers, fistula, inflammation of the middle ear, acute cystitis, vaginismus.

Combinations: For urinary stone and gravel, it may be combined with Parsley Pier, Gravel Root,  Nettle or Hydrangea.

A decoction of the fresh root has been given in catarrh of the bladder, leucorrhcea, gravel and dropsy. It is largely used by American veterinary surgeons as a diuretic. It is valuable in all complaints of urinary organs and rectum, and is best combined with other drugs.

It can be used externally, especially the leaves, for poultices and fomentations, bruises, wounds, sores, cuts, etc., and also as a gargle, in the strength of 1 part of fluid extract to 3 of water.

• Preparation/Dosage

Decoction:  Put 1-2 teaspoonfuls of the dried root in a cup of water, bring to boiling and simmer for 10-15 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day.
Tincture:  Take 1-2 ml of the tincture three times a day. Or as directed.