Traditional Uses: Traditionally used by Native American tribes and early settlers to induce sweating and break fevers from influenza, malaria, and dengue (“breakbone fever”), as well as for rheumatism, respiratory infections, and as a mild laxative.
Potential Benefits: Laboratory studies suggest antiviral (influenza A, dengue) and anti-inflammatory properties due to compounds such as eupafolin and polysaccharides, but no high-quality human clinical trials exist to confirm efficacy.
Warnings: The plant contains hepatotoxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids; internal use may cause severe diarrhea and vomiting, and it is contraindicated during pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in individuals with liver disease, with the FDA classifying it as an “Herb of Undefined Safety.”
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