September 23, 2002

PARTRIDGE BERRY

Latin Name: Mitchella repens

Alternate Names: Squaw Vine, Mitchella, Winter Clove, Checkerberry, Deerberry

Family: RUBIACEAE

Parts Used: Above ground portion, vine.

Properties: Alterative, Astringent, Diuretic, Emmenagogue, Nervine, Parturient, Tonic, Uterine Stimulant, Uterine Tonic.

Internal Uses: Amenorrhea, Childbirth, Colitis, Diarrhea, Dysmenorrhea, Edema, Eye Soreness, Impotence, Insomnia, Irritability, Morning Sickness, Nervous Breakdown, Placenta Delivery, Prolapse, Rheumatism, Spermatorrhea, Threatened Miscarriage, Uterine Infection

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

The astringent properties of Partridge Berry contribute to this plant's effectiveness as a tonic for the female reproductive system, thus helping the body prepare for birth. The herb is used by women for a wide range of gynecological complaints and taken six weeks before birthing to facilitate delivery.

Topical Uses: Nipple Soreness

Topical Applications: Eyewash. Astringent skin wash. Salve for sore nipples in lactating women.

Culinary uses: Native Americans ate the berries and made them into a jelly, which was eaten in case of fevers. Berries are edible.

Energetics: Bitter, Pungent, Cool, Dry.

Chemical Constituents: Alkaloids, glycosides, saponins, mucilage, tannins.

Contraindications: Overdose can cause mucous membrane irritation, but basically Partridge Berry is non-toxic.

Comments: Native to North America, this plant was called Squaw Vine as Native women and pioneers used the herb to facilitate childbirth. The herb is still used by women for a wide range of gynecological complaints. This herb has been listed by United Plant Savers as an 'at risk' plant, so please avoid buying products harvested from the wild. Only use the cultivated herb.

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 23, 2002

Answers

-- Cheryl in KS (klingonbunny@planetkc.com), September 23, 2002.