Gravel Root also known as Queen of the Meadow Root or Joe Pye weed grows in marshy areas of Canada and the US and is popular for its host of healing benefits. The herb thrives in moist, rich, loamy and under a full sun. It has beautiful purple flowers, leaves, and stem. However, its roots are majorly used for herbal treatment.
For centuries, Gravel root has been used as a therapeutic herb for a lot of health issues. In fact, a number of the bioactive compounds present in gravel root are already being analyzed for their range of health benefits.
Breaks Down Kidney Stones
Gravel Root has the ability to avert and break down kidney stones. The herb also helps to eliminate sand and gravel in the kidneys. That is how it got the name Gravel Root. Gravel Root was traditionally used for softening, dissolving, and stimulating the passage of kidney stones. The herb is also effective for reducing the size of kidney stones.
Soothes the Nervous System
Gravel Root works very well in the soothing nerves as well as for neuralgia and dropsy.
A Natural Diuretic
Gravel Root is an amazing diuretic that helps to flush out toxins from the body. And if your goal is to shed some extra weight, gravel root can help rid the body of accumulated water and therefore helping you to lose some weight.
Yes, due to natural diuretic properties, Gravel root is sometimes used to treat edema. Since it is a natural diuretic, it is effective for eliminating excess water from the body.
Contains Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Gravel Root is wonderful for curbing inflammation of the kidneys and thus prevents and even treats incessant backaches. In addition, the herb helps treat inflammatory health condition such as arthritis and prostate inflammation. Gravel Root also works well for headaches and migraines.
Relaxes Nerves
Gravel Root is effective for soothing and relaxing the nerves, as well as alleviate stress.
An Alkalizing Agent
For people who do not eat right, Gravel Root can function effectively in changing the body’s PH from acid to alkaline. So the herb can help in staving off inflammation that results in diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and strokes.
Dissolves Crystals
If you suffer from gout and a buildup of crystals in your system, then Gravel Root is your best bet for dissolving these uncomfortable conditions. The herb also eliminates swelling, inflammation, and pain.
Treats Urinary Tract Problems
If people who have problems with their urinary tract, Gravel Root may be of great help as it tones and even stimulates the pelvic area, including all the mucous membranes in the body. The herb also helps prevent urethra and bladder irritation and curbs the urge to urinate too frequently.
As a matter of fact, there are indications that Gravel Root has been used both traditionally and conventionally uses to treat urinary tract problems and bladder infections. And for people with dysuria (painful urination), Gravel root would be of great help in alleviating pain. The herb is able to do this due to its astringent and soothing effect on the mucous membranes of the urinary tract.
Dissolves Gall Stones
Gallstones form as a result of an accumulation of excess substances in the bile, which leads to crystalline, hard stones. In some cultures, Gravel Root is used to dissolve gallstones and prevent new ones from forming.
Lowers Fevers
Gravel Root is very effective in the treatment of typhus and it lowers typhus-related fevers as well.
Treats Arthritis and Gout
While there hasn’t been any research on the efficacy of the herb lately, it is important to note that, for so many years, gravel root was used by treat painful joint conditions such as arthritis and gout. It’s no secret that an excess buildup of uric acid in the joints can result in gout and possibly arthritis. Thankfully, Gravel Root supports the cleansing of the kidneys as well as have an antilithic effect to uric acid crystals.
Gravel Root can also be used for treating renal problems, diarrhea, back pains, menstrual problems.
Takes Care of Liver Problems
Regarding inflammation and pain of the liver, including gallbladder inflammation and the inflammation related to gallstones, Gravel Root can be of immense help.
Gravel Root Supplement
Gravel Root can be consumed in so many forms but the most consumption methods are tinctures, capsules, and of course, teas. No matter how gravel root is prepared, it is believed that it imparts the powerful benefits to the body. It is, however, advisable to only consume gravel root that is certified organic from a tried and trusted source.
Sadly, there are so many low-quality herbs and supplements in the market. So, make sure you get your gravel root supplements from verifiable sources.
The Bottom Line
There is no doubt that gravel root has a host of healing properties has earned a reputation for being a good remedy. Hopefully, with more research going on, the herb’s numerous health effects will be uncovered.
