Bayberry As Alternative Medicine

Bayberry As Alternative Medicine

Bayberry is one of the most useful herbs in alternative medicine. It is also called candleberry, wax myrtle and waxberry. In China the leaves are made into an infusion to ease stomach complaints.

1. Its tea is an effective douche to treat excessive vaginal bleeding.
2. It stimulates blood circulation.
3. In poultice form it is used to treat skin disorders such as cuts, ulcers, wounds, bruises and insect bites.
4. Snuffing bayberry powder can clear sinuses.
5. It is a treatment for canker sore in the bowel, mouth, stomach and throat.
6. It fights infection by inhibiting bacteria.
7. It is a remedy for hemorrhages.
8. It is effective in treating diarrhea, fever, coughs, colds and jaundice.
9. It is a powerful decongestant and expectorant.

Bayberry is available as tea, capsules, liquid extract and powder. It is often used in combination with other herbs. To treat cholera it is mixed with ginger. For colds and fevers it is usually taken with capsicum. It is sometimes combined with peppermint, yarrow, sage or catnip to treat colds and flu. Its tea is also used as a wash for bleeding gums.

A tea can be made by steeping one teaspoonful of bayberry bark powder in 250ml of boiling water for 10 to 15 minutes. This herb must be used under an herbal practitioner’s instructions. Excess consumption can cause liver and kidney damage. However, bayberry is rarely used as an alternative medicine today.