The Uses of Osha Root

The osha root, Ligusticum Porteri, has many medicinal uses in alternative medicine. Osha in plant form is a perennial, with white flowers and stands almost 3 feet in height. Osha is a perennial and member of the parsley family. The brown root has a hairy appearance with a yellowish inner pith and a smell similar to celery. Osha root can come in many forms such as capsule or be even tea in its powdered form. It is not recommended to take large amounts of Osha over extended periods of time, because it may cause kidney or liver toxicity.

Flu or Cold

• Osha tends to induce sweating because of the camphor oil in it. Camphor elevates body temperature, making it a diaphoretic and thereby helping to eliminate toxins.. This property helps to strengthen the immune system and help treat the common cold and/or flu. Osha not only increases oxygen but can also soothe the throat. One homemade remedy for the throat is to take the ground root and mix it with double the amount of honey. After letting it sit out for an hour, press it out and take as needed.

Diuretic

• Osha can be used as a diuretic, increasing the renal excretion of sodium and chloride, and increasing the rate of urination. It can be used to relieve urinary problems such as water retention, and help with the passing of kidney stones. If used with anti-diabetic drugs, dosage adjustments may need to be made by your physician.

Digestive

• Osha can be a remedy for stomach indigestion and digestive complaints. Osha root in tea form helps ease cramping, stomach upset and pain. The leaves and seeds can also be used in cooking to add flavors to a dish. It is also said to be increase appetite.

Anesthetic

• Osha can be used as a local anesthetic, internally and externally. In the Native American culture it was commonly used as a gargle for sore throats and canker sores. Externally the osha is used to treat body aches, the roots can be made into a paste to be applied as needed.