Collinsonia

Name: Collinsonia

Other Names: Canada Horsebalm, Hardhack, Heal All, Horseweed, Ox Balm, Stone root, Richweed

Description: Collinsonia canadensis is a perennial medicinal herb in the mint family. Common names include Canada Horsebalm, Richweed, Hardhack, Heal-All, Horseweed, Ox-Balm and Stone root. .The root of Collinsonia is dark-brown, nearly black, knotty, very heavy, and is covered by a mass of tough, black, wire-like fibers. The green crushed root has a slight, peculiar odor, which disappears on drying. Internally, the dried root is white, odorless, and imparts little taste, even when long chewed.It has a special influence on the nervous system and mucous membranes, removing congestion and improving circulation of the capillaries. This influence is most marked in relaxed conditions of the mucous membranes of the throat and lower bowels. Collinsonia is a valuable remedy in sore throat, laryngitis, pharyngitis, with relaxed and enfeebled capillary circulation. May be combined to advantage with other indicated remedies in atonic dyspepsia, catarrhal gastritis with defective circulation and irritable condition of the heart from weakness. In hemorrhoids, when indicated, it is our best remedy. In these cases it should be used in small doses.