shopping Pleurisy - one variety
Pleurisy root, c/s imagelearn more
[ 858 ]Asclepias tuberosa

Pleurisy Root Cut & Sifted

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1/4 Pound:  $31.02 Pound:  $68.94  100+ Pounds:  contactout of stock   |   ETA: UNKNOWN  
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Wholesale Pleurisy

Asclepias tuberosa
plant overview
banquet for butterflies

Pleurisy, also known as chigger flower and silkweed, is a species of milkweed distributed throughout the woodlands of eastern North America. Because the plant’s fragrant and colorful flower clusters serve as food for various species of butterfly larvae, the herb is commonly called butterfly weed. Early European settlers learned how to use the plant from the Menominee, Cheyenne and other Native American tribes, who harvested not only the leaf but also the long, white, fleshy taproot. Pleurisy root is traditionally decocted to produce teas, infusions and tonics, sometimes in combination with other herbs. Pleurisy root is also used to produce tinctures and extracts.

Clicking "learn more" next to each variety will take you to individual product pages for details.

01.
A Bit of Botany

a little botanical information on pleurisy

description
Asclepias tuberosa is a perennial plant of the Apocynaceae family. The pleurisy root plant reaches modest heights of 0.3–1 meter (1 ft 0 in–3 ft 3 in) tall, and has clustered orange or yellow flowers that bloom from early summer through early fall. The leaves are spirally arranged and lanceolate. They are usually approximately 5–12 cm long and 2–3 cm broad.

common names & nomenclature
Pleurisy is commonly known as Butterfly Weed, as pleurisy's color and its copious production of nectar attract butterflies. It is indeed the larval food plant of the Queen and Monarch butterflies.

Also known as:
chigger flower, silkweed, butterfly weed

Pleurisy, the banquet for butterflies

02.
Where in the World

habitat and range for pleurisy

Asclepias tuberosa is a species of milkweed native to eastern North America.

03.
Cultivation & Harvesting

considerations for growing and harvesting pleurisy

climate
Pleurisy requires full sun. The plant grows on the sides of roads or in dry, sandy, gravelly or grassy places.

soil
Prefers dry, sand or gravel soil or the soil on the edges of stream.

growing
Plants should be pot-grown from seed and planted out in their permanent locations when young. Pleurisy doesn’t grow well from division.

harvesting
The root is harvested in the autumn and can be used fresh or dried.

preserving
Store dried pleurisy root plant pieces in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

04.
The Rest of the Story

pleurisy history, folklore, literature, & more

Pleurisy root (Asclepias tuberosa), also commonly known as butterfly weed, is a perennial botanical native to North America. Recognized by its vibrant orange flower clusters, the plant has been a significant part of Indigenous botanical traditions for centuries. While it is found throughout the Americas, it remains a specialized root within the broader world of herbalism.

Historically, pleurisy root was prepared as a tea or tincture and featured in traditional practices centered on the respiratory system. In historical folklore, the root was valued for its specific aromatic and botanical properties, often utilized in traditional infusions and decoctions. Beyond its historical association with the chest, the root has a legacy of use in traditional digestive preparations.

In historical applications, pleurisy root was often utilized to encourage perspiration, a practice sometimes referred to as diaphoretic use in older herbal texts. Today, it is primarily available in dried, bulk form for those interested in traditional herbal preparations.

Because pleurisy root is a potent botanical, it should be used in moderation. It is not suitable for use during pregnancy, and excessive amounts may lead to digestive upset. As with any traditional herb, it is important to consult a healthcare provider before incorporating pleurisy root into your routine to ensure it is appropriate for your individual needs.

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for educational purposes only

This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

please be advised:  Before making any changes to your diet you should always consult with your doctor, especially if you are pregnant, nursing or have existing conditions.

All reviews solely reflect the views and opinions expressed by the reviewer and not that of Monterey Bay Herb Co. We do not verify or endorse any claims made by any reviewer. None of these statements have been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.