This member of the aster family has a long history of traditional use among Native American communities and was commonly referred to as “ague weed.” Knowledge of the plant was later shared with European settlers by the Menominee, Delaware, Mohegan, Iroquois, and Cherokee, who prepared infusions of the leaf and bark as part of traditional wellness practices.
During the colonial period, the herb became widely recognized and valued for its versatility, earning a common name that reflects its historical role in early American botanical traditions. Its importance continued into the 19th century, when it was frequently carried by soldiers during the Civil War as a familiar and trusted botanical.
The tannins and alkaloids in this herb contribute to its astringent qualities, making boneset a common ingredient in traditional topical preparations.
