Medicinal Properties of Lupine

Lupine is a plant in the pea family, which typically features tall, spike-like, colorful flowers and highly segmented leaves. It is always of the genus Lupinus, but comes in a variety of different species, all of which have varying features. Humans have used lupine as a medicinal herb for centuries, and its properties can help treat a wide array of conditions.

Anthelmintic

• The term anthelmintic denotes that a medicine is capable of treating infections of parasitic worms, such as flat worms, round worms and tapeworms. Some species of lupine may posses anthelmintic properties, according to Botanical.com. particularly the white lupine (Lupinus albus). However, you must first bruise and soak the seeds of the plant in water in order to produce an effective remedy.

Diuretic

• Diuretics are substances that stimulate the kidneys to produce urine and expel it from the body. As treatments, they are important for individuals suffering from difficulty urinating, which---according to the Bladder and Bowel Foundation---is likely the result of one of two problems: a weakened bladder or a blocked urethra. According to the Longevity Herb Press, individuals use Coulter's lupine (Lupinus sparsiflorus) for its diuretic properties to help induce urination when urine production is stagnant. White lupine is another known diuretic in the Lupinus genus.

Emmenagogue

• White lupine also displays the characteristics of an emmenagogue, according to Botanical.com. This means it is capable of provoking or encouraging blood flow in the pelvic regions of women, which may in turn stimulate menstruation. Emmenagogues can be helpful for maintaining menstrual regularity.

Skin Conditions

• An infusion of velvet lupine (Lupinus leucophyllus Douglas) may help cure skin rashes when you apply it externally, according to the Longevity Herb Press. In addition, the multifaceted white lupine is also known to cure external conditions, specifically ulcers, or open, painful sores that often contain bacteria.

Sleep Aid

• Blue lupine (Lupinus angustifolius) is known for its tranquilizing properties, and can help calm individuals who are having trouble sleeping or are hyperactive. Today, people commonly take the plant in an infusion or tincture-form. Historically, according to the Longevity Herb Press, individuals would eat the steamed roots of blue lupine, or chew them raw, prior to going to bed to help induce sleep. The plants contain the alkaloid chemical lupinin, which can be poisonous in high doses.