Life everlasting, a summer annual from the Asteraceae family, is a hardy, low-maintenance plant featuring creamy white, aromatic blooms. However, its appeal extends far beyond its pleasant fragrance. Historically, Native American tribes valued the entire sweet everlasting plant and used it for medicinal purposes. Are you curious about its healing properties? Or do you wonder whether it’s safe to drink as tea? This article explores the traditional uses, health benefits, and possible side effects of the sweet everlasting herb and its preparations.
The Significance of Sweet Everlasting
Also known as rabbit tobacco, cudweed, cotton grass, and sweet everlasting, this plant’s scientific name actually is Pseudognaphalium obtusifolium. Indigenous groups, particularly the Yuchi tribe, referred to it as tsodasha, or spirit medicine, and used it in healing rituals.
Notably, the Yuchi performed specific ceremonies when harvesting the plant. During the ritual, people fast from midnight until the plant is harvested, which means that this type of herb is revered in their culture and medicine.
Benefits of Last Everlasting Tea
Relief for Sore Throats. Sweet everlasting tea may help ease the discomfort of sore throats, which often accompany respiratory infections like the common cold or strep throat. Its soothing properties can relieve irritation while addressing the underlying cause.
Support for Asthma and Chest Ailments. Though scientific evidence is limited, traditional use suggests that cudweed tea may relieve symptoms and other respiratory complaints. While this tea may not become a substitute for medical treatment, it may help alleviate symptoms temporarily.
Promotes Relaxation. Sweet, everlasting tea is known to have gentle sedative effects. It can support relaxation and help reduce anxiety. Traditionally, dried cudweed flowers were added to pillow stuffing to promote better sleep.
May Reduce Fever. Some Native American groups, such as the Kosati tribe, used rabbit tobacco decoctions to help lower fevers. Similar uses were recorded in Peru, where indigenous people employed the bark in treating malaria-related fevers. Still, fever can indicate acute illness, so you should contact a professional medical doctor.
Diuretic Effect. Sweet everlasting may act as a natural diuretic, helping to manage high blood pressure and reduce fluid retention. This treatment was a frequent application among several Native American tribes.
Gastrointestinal Support. The herb has been traditionally used to treat intestinal parasites and soothe symptoms associated with inflammatory bowel conditions.
How to Brew Life-Everlasting Tea
Brewing a cup of this herbal tea is simple. Steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of the dried flowers and leaves in a cup of boiling water for approximately 7 minutes. For added health benefits and flavor, consider sweetening with honey rather than sugar.
Potential Side Effects
Although consumption in moderation is generally considered safe, sweet everlasting has not been thoroughly studied for safety or toxicity. Individuals who are pregnant or breastfeeding are advised to avoid using this herb, as there is not enough reliable data on its safety.
Those on blood pressure medication or with liver conditions should consult a healthcare provider before using this herb. Additionally, individuals allergic to plants in the Asteraceae (daisy) family may experience undesirable reactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cudweed safe to consume?
It is likely safe in moderate amounts, though comprehensive research is lacking.
Is sweet everlasting easy to grow?
Yes. It requires minimal care; it attracts beneficial pollinators, making it a great addition to any garden.
Can it be used topically?
Yes. Due to its antioxidant and fatty acid content, sweet everlasting may help nourish the skin and reduce signs of aging. It is generally safe even for sensitive skin.
Conclusion
The life everlasting herb offers various traditional medicinal benefits, from easing respiratory symptoms to promoting relaxation. While further research is needed to confirm some claims, its historical use and soothing qualities make it a noteworthy natural remedy. As a precaution, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating any new herb into your health regimen.
Sources:
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/asthma
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/10880-fever
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/inflammatory-bowel-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-20353315
Associative pictures ©canva.
