Stephanomeria spinosa
Thorn Skeletonweed
Taxonomy and growth
- Family
- Compositae
- Genus
- Stephanomeria
- Life cycle
- perennial
- Flower type
- hermaphrodite
Uses
Medicinal uses
Historical medicinal uses. These records describe reported uses. They do not establish safety or effectiveness. Ask a qualified health professional before using any plant medicinally.
The roots are diaphoretic[1]. A decoction of the crushed roots has been used in the treatment of colds[1]. A decoction of the crushed root has been used as a herbal steam bath to cause sweating in the treatment of colds, mumps and tuberculosis[1]. The leaves and stems are antiemetic, astringent and emetic[1]. A decoction of the plant tops has been used in the treatment of diarrhoea[1]. The decoction has been used externally as an eyewash[1]. A poultice of the cottony fuzz (probably the seed floss) has been applied to sores and boils to promote their healing[1]. The cottony fuzz has also been placed in the cavity of an aching tooth to relieve the pain[1].
Environment
- Range
- Western N. America
- Habitat
- Sandy rocky soils under dry conditions at elevations of 1500 - 2800 metres in sagebrush scrub, pinyon-juniper woodland and yellow pine forest communities California[2].
- Light
- full sun
- Shade tolerance
- light shade
- Water
- moderate
- Soil textures
- sandy, loamy, clay
- Soil pH
- acid, neutral, alkaline
- Tolerates Nutritionally Poor Soil
- No
- Drought
- intolerant
Cultivation
207278
References
Moerman. D. Native American Ethnobotany Timber Press. Oregon. 1998-00-00 ISBN 0-88192-453-9
PFAFimport-276
Unresolved citation