Boneset

Boneset, commonly known as Eupatorium perfoliatum, is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae (sunflower) family. It is native to eastern North America and is also called thoroughwort. The name boneset reflects traditional beliefs about its use in fevers and illnesses.

Description and morphology: Boneset typically grows to about 1 to 1.5 meters tall. Stems are slender and bear opposite leaves that clasp the stem (perfoliate). The plant produces flat-topped clusters of small white flower heads, which bloom from midsummer to early autumn. Its overall appearance is a tall, branching herb with wispy white flower clusters.

Habitat and range: Boneset favors wet habitats such as wetlands, moist meadows, stream banks, and damp woodland edges. It grows in rich, moist soils and prefers sunny to partly sunny locations. Its geographic range covers much of eastern and central North America, extending from parts of Canada southward into the United States.

Traditional and ethnobotanical use: Boneset has a long history in North American traditional medicine as a febrifuge and remedy for cold- and flu-like symptoms. Indigenous peoples and later European-American herbalists prepared infusions from the leaves or flowering tops for fever and related ailments.

Modern assessment and safety: Today, there is limited high-quality evidence supporting boneset’s efficacy for any medical condition. It is not approved as a medicine by major health authorities, and safety data are variable; preparations can cause side effects such as nausea or vomiting in some individuals. Caution is advised, particularly for pregnant or nursing individuals, and as with all herbal preparations, proper identification and consult with a healthcare professional are recommended before use.