Commonly referred to as yerba santa, eriodictyon glutinosum and Eriodictyon californicum is an evergreen shrub native to California and Northern Mexico. The leaves are the part of the herb with the medicinal properties.

The term yerba santa means sacred herb in Spanish and it’s not hard to understand why. For hundreds of years, the sacred herb has been used to treat a number of different conditions including bronchitis, colds, coughs, diarrhea, and stomach problems.

The herb has also been shown to be effective in treating gastrointestinal disorders and fatigue as well.

Mostly recognized for its ability to treat respiratory conditions, yerba santa remains a recommendation among many as a decongestant, especially for conditions involving a large amount of mucus stuck in the body. It works as an expectorant by breaking up thick mucus and initiating mucus expulsion from the body.

Yerba santa also works well as a muscle relaxant for those suffering from asthma as it dilates the bronchial tubes, allowing air to flow more freely into the lungs.

Fresh yerba santa leaves can be used as a poultice to externally treat sprains, bruises and mosquito bites. It has also been used to purify the blood.

Recent studies on yerba santa have disclosed twelve new flavonoids that showed promise as anti-carcinogens. The herb is also believed to have chemo-protective properties.

Yerba santa also aids digestion by working as a substance that promotes salivation known as a sialagogue. Production of saliva in excess aids the digestive process and can provide relief from symptoms associated with digestive problems.

As a stimulant, yerba santa reduces fatigue and curbs the appetite.

Yerba santa can be taken as an infusion by adding 1 tbsp of the leaves to 1 c of boiling water and allowing it to sit for 10 minutes. As a tincture, each dose should range from 10–30 drops, four times a day.

* Important notes: No side effects or interactions have been reported from using yerba santa. However, the use of yerba santa during pregnancy and breast-feeding should be avoided.

It is recommended that you seek the advice of a qualified healthcare practitioner prior to using yerba santa or any alternative therapies. The recommended doses are for those over age 18 unless otherwise stated. Always check herb and vitamin use with your child’s health care practitioner prior to administering them.