Stone root, also known as collinsonia root, is a perennial herb which grows in damp woodland areas in North America. The herb, which has an unpleasant smell, is made of roots and rhizomes that are used to make medicines.

Historically, stone root was used as a digestion aid, treatment for congestion in the respiratory tract, and to boost circulation. In modern times, the herb is popular for its effectiveness in treating a host of health conditions that concern poor blood circulation, including hemorrhoids and varicose veins.

There aren’t many modern studies on the medicinal properties of stone root as most of the studies and research carried out on the health benefits of the herb were conducted in the late 19th century. However, users of the herb believe it to contain sedative, tonic, diuretic, and astringent abilities. It is also believed to possess a natural antioxidant, making the herb a possible storehouse of an impressive range of health benefits.

Health Benefits of Stone Root

Now, let’s take a closer look at the health benefits of stone root.

Acts as an Antioxidant

We all know that the importance of getting the right amount of antioxidants into our body cannot be overemphasized. Antioxidants help to nullify the damage done to the cells of the body by free radicals. There are several natural sources of antioxidants and stone root is one of them.

Stone root contains powerful antioxidant abilities as it is rich in compounds like saponins and tannin. These potent compounds have an impressive effect on a person’s overall health and can safeguard the body against diseases resulting from oxidative stress. Apart from protecting the system against diseases, a natural antioxidant like stone root can improve skin appearance and slow down the process of aging.

Prevents Hemorrhoids and Varicose Veins

One of the most prominent benefits of stone root is its ability to improve circulatory conditions, including relieving hemorrhoids pain and preventing varicose veins. There are claims that the herb can effectively lower the pressure in engorged veins which reduces inflammation and also protect against varicose veins. In simple terms, stone root helps to improve blood flow by preventing the contraction of blood vessels, fortifying the walls of the veins, and reducing the pooling of blood.

Most times, people who suffer from poor circulatory conditions feel cold even when the temperatures around them are high. Thankfully, the herb does not only alleviate the symptoms of poor circulation, it also improves circulation, and can make a person feel warmer.

Aids the Digestive System

The digestive system is designed to convert the food we eat into nutrients, which the body uses for energy, growth, and the repair of cells. But most people who use stone root to improve digestion do so based on anecdotal evidence as there is no scientific evidence that the herb can actually do this.

However, even with the lack of scientific evidence, many people believe that stone root is capable of relieving a number of health conditions linked to digestion, including constipation, bloating, heartburn, diarrhea, indigestion, and gas. The herb’s positive effects on the digestive system may be due to its major ability to boost circulation. In fact, there are reports of athletes finding the herb beneficial for restoring their energy after intense exercise routines.

A Remedy for Sore Throats

Sore throats are usually accompanied by an itchy feeling or irritation of the throat and often get worse when you try to swallow. One of the most common causes of a sore throat is a cold or the flu. The symptoms of a sore throat may include coughing, pain, and problems with talking. Usually, a sore throat caused by a virus gets better without any intervention.

For centuries, stone root has been used as a remedy for treating various throat conditions that typically cause problems in the throat or vocal cords. According to some studies, stone root is very effective in providing relief for sore throats and can be used as a gargle in this case.

Alleviates Stress and Anxiety

Everybody will experience stress and anxiety at some points in their life. Stress is simply when you place excessive demands on your brain or body. Most people feel stressed when many competing expectations are placed on them. The feeling of being stressed can also be as a result of a nervous breakdown or an event that causes frustration.

On the other hand, anxiety is a feeling of fear or worry which can actually be a reaction to stress. Some of the common symptoms of stress and anxiety include headaches, lack of concentration, feelings of doom, irregular heartbeat, stomachache, panic attacks, sweating, fatigue, irrational anger, lack of appetite, dizziness, insomnia, frequent irritation, restlessness, and diarrhea.

Fortunately, a herb like stone root may help people who are stressed and suffer from anxiety to overcome them and boost feelings of overall health. There are also claims that the herb can improve libido in women and provide them with more energy.

When it concerns emotional health, the abilities of herbal supplements like stone root is dependent on a number of factors, including the severity of the condition. The effects will also vary from person to person and there is really no assurance that the herbal remedy will work for you.

Side Effects of Stone Root

Generally, stone root is considered a safe remedy for the treatment of gastrointestinal and circulatory issues. However, the herb can lead to a number of undesirable side effects after use. Before using stone root, it is important to take note of the following:

• When consumed in large quantities, stone root can lead to nausea, diarrhea, dizziness, stomach cramps, or painful urination.
• Pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should steer clear of the herb as it may not be safe for them.
• People who suffer from high blood pressure should use stone root with caution.

Like we mentioned earlier, there are very few side effects associated with stone root. However, as with most herbal products and supplements, stone root products aren’t regulated by the FDA. If you are considering stone root or any herbal supplement, it is important to consult a herb expert or medical doctor first.

Dosage

The right dose of stone root is often dependent on several factors such as the user’s health, age, and many other conditions. Currently, there is not enough scientific evidence to determine the right range of doses for the herb. It is important to understand that natural products are not necessarily safe and dosages can be vital. Keep in mind also that relevant instructions on product labels should be followed. As with other herbs, consult a pharmacist or medical doctor before using stone root.

Bottom Line

Stone root is an herb that has an overwhelmingly unpleasant smell. The herb’s root and underground stem are used to make medicine.

Stone root is popular for its ability to treat headaches and alleviate urinary tract problems, including pain in the bladder, inflammation in the bladder, kidney stones, and excess uric acid in the urine. The herb is also used to improve the flow of urine and for relieving edema (water retention).

Stone root is also used by some people as a tonic and in the treatment of stomach and intestinal issues including indigestion, constipation, diarrhea, bloating, and heartburn.