Bugleweed
Lycopus virginicus
Other names: Bugleweed
Photo credit: Alex Abair
Safety information
Safety information
Toxicity: None known reported.
Contraindications: Caution in thyroid conditions/therapy.
Interactions: May interfere with the action of thyroid hormones (blocks T4→T3; inhibits TSH).
Evidence level
Supported by laboratory or animal studies; not yet confirmed in humans.
Preparations
infusion · aerial parts
Part used: aerial parts
Traditional use: Traditionally used for overactive thyroid (with breathlessness, palpitations, shaking), for heart palpitations of nervous origin, and as a sedative cough reliever.
How to prepare (traditional): Infusion: pour 1 cup of boiling water over 1 teaspoon of dried herb and infuse 10-15 minutes.
Dosage note (descriptive only): Drunk three times a day. Commission E: 1-2 g dried herb daily.
tincture · aerial parts
Part used: aerial parts
Traditional use: Thyroid / cardiac nervine.
How to prepare (traditional): Tincture at 1:5 in 40% alcohol.
Dosage note (descriptive only): 1-2 ml three times a day.
Associated conditions
Healing traditions
Sources (1)
- Hoffmann D., Medical Herbalism (2003) — materia medica, Lycopus virginicus