Bayberry, also known as candle berry, katphala, myrica, tallow shrub and wax myrtle, is a fragrant smelling plant, with a bitter taste, according to Botanical.com. It is used for a variety of medicinal purposes. Bayberry is purportedly a stimulant and an astringent used to treat a host of ailments. However, more medical research needs to be done on this versatile herbal plant to assess its efficacy and safety for ingestion for treatment of medicinal purposes, particularly in treating respiratory conditions.
Medicinal Uses
According to an article published by "Herbs 2000," there are many reported uses for bayberry. Bayberry is used by some as a stimulant to increase nasal secretions, clear sinus congestion and respiratory congestion including flu and cold symptoms, to stimulate cardio-vascular circulation, prevent bacterial infection, and promote perspiration to relieve fever. Other medicinal uses focus on gastrointestinal health, as it is used to treat ulcers, irritable bowel syndrome and colitis.
Other Uses
Bayberry is probably best known for its aromatic properties. The bayberry plant has tiny blue berries that turn red in the fall, and are used to make scented Christmas candles. They are also used as an aromatic scent for aromatherapy, as the familiar scent, when inhaled, provides both relaxation and rejuvenation from its stimulant properties. Aromatherapy may be used to clear sinus congestion, as well as ingestion of this herbal medicinal.
Prevalence and Availability
According to "Herbs 2000, the bayberry plant is found in the eastern and southern United States as far west as Texas. This hearty plant thrives in marshlands and swampy areas along the Atlantic Ocean and the shores of Lake Erie. According to "HolisticOnline," the root bark, leaves, and flowers are all used to make medicinal herbal compounds from the bayberry plant.
Dosage
The recommended dose of bayberry, according to "Herbs 2000," is 1 tsp. of bayberry bark boiled in 1 cup of water. The mixture is then steeped and cooled for 10 to 15 minutes before consumption. This can be repeated up to three times per day. Bayberry is available in whole, powder, tincture and elixir forms.
Warning
Though little scientific research has been performed on the herbal bayberry plant, it has been found to contain tannins, which when consumed in large doses, have been found to be carcinogenic or cancer causing. Whenever taking herbal medicinal, it is always best to consult a licensed herbalist, naturopath or homeopath, as these treatments have not been fully researched for safe dose and efficacy.
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