Healing Properties of Clematis

Clematis grows in almost 300 varieties, according to Drugs.com. The plant grows in North America and Asia, as a cultivated and native plant. Gardeners find the climbing, perennial shrub an attractive plant that can be trained to create shaded shelters and bowers. The plant has historical use as a medicinal and also is used as a Bach Flower Remedy.

Flower Essence

• Clematis flower essence is used therapeutically to relieve post-partum depression, according to the "Bach Flower Therapy: Theory and Practice." It can help bring the withdrawn and detached person back to reality and revive the creative talent within. The individual who needs clematis seems to live in his own world, preferring to avoid the realities of this world. Physically he may have cold hands and feet, feel empty-headed and have problems with memory.

  Use of the flower essence may help her harness creative energies and a fertile imagination to reach the success of which she dreams. It may help her develop unexplored talents and build an interesting and fulfilling life.

  "Bach Flower Therapy: Theory and Practice" notes that clematis may help infertile couples conceive. Add several drops of the flower essence to a glass of water and drink each day.

Medicinal Uses

• "PDR for Herbal Medicines" describes two clematis varieties: Clematis recta and Clematis vitalba. Both plants exhibit fungicidal properties and are poisonous, if consumed fresh in large doses; they both can cause skin blisters.

  Herbalists used Clematis recta as a treatment for syphilis, chronic skin disease, rheumatism, gout and bone disorders, according to "PDR for Herbal Medicines." Healers also applied it as a poultice to blisters, festering wounds and ulcers.

  Healers used Clematis vitalba to treat diseases affecting the male genitals and wounds that heal poorly. Some may use it in very small, internal or external doses to treat migraines, according to "PDR for Herbal Medicines."

  American pioneers probably learned to use clematis from Native Americans, according to Drugs.com. Tribal healers crushed its leaves to treat cancerous tumors, ulcers, fevers and to induce vomiting.

Homeopathic Uses

• Clematis recta is available in homeopathic form to treat venereal disease, orchitis, urinary issues and intense headaches. Homeopaths may choose it to combat sleep disturbances and ease nerve pains in various parts of the body. They may also recommend it for red, burning, scaly skin that is extremely itchy.

  Homeopathic use is best determined by a qualified homeopath.