Gravel root is astringent, antirheumatic, diuretic, lithotrophic, nervine and tonic. Gravel root was used by the native Americans as a diaphoretic to induce perspiration and break a fever. The plant was quickly adopted by the white settlers and still finds a use in modern herbalism. The whole plant, but especially the root, is astringent, diuretic, nervine and tonic. It works particularly on the genito-urinary system and the uterus. Especially valuable as a diuretic and stimulant, as well as an astringent tonic a tea made from the roots and leaves has been used to eliminate stones from the urinary tract, to treat urinary incontinence in children, cystitis, urethritis, impotence etc. It is also said to be helpful in treating rheumatism and gout by increasing the removal of waste from the kidneys. Gravel root is traditionally used for urinary tract problems such as urinary or kidney stones, infections of the bladder, urethra, and prostate and painful urination. Gravel root is also used for arthritis-like pain (rheumatism) and gout, as well as for fever from malaria dengue virus, or typhus. (1)
The anti-inflammatory activity of the antirheumatic herb Eupatorium purpureum has been demonstrated in both in vitro and in vivo models of inflammation. (2)
The anti-rheumatic herbal drug Cistifolin, an integrin-dependent cell adhesion blocker from, is derived from gravel root (Eupatorium purpureum). (3)
1. PFAF. Eupatorium purpureum 2019.
2. Habtemariam S. Antiinflammatory activity of the antirheumatic herbal drug, gravel root (Eupatorium purpureum): further biological activities and constituents. Phytotherapy research : PTR. 2001;15(8):687-90.
3. Habtemariam S. Cistifolin, an integrin-dependent cell adhesion blocker from the anti-rheumatic herbal drug, gravel root (rhizome of Eupatorium purpureum). Planta Med. 1998;64(8):683-5.