Osha's therapeutic uses
Osha, also known as Ligusticum porteri, is a natural plant remedy traditionally used by Indigenous Americans for various health conditions, particularly respiratory infections and digestive issues. Native to high-altitude regions of the Southwest and Rocky Mountain states, the root of the osha plant is often recommended at the onset of respiratory infections, functioning as a cough suppressant and expectorant. Users report that it may help induce sweating, potentially preventing the onset of a full cold. Beyond respiratory health, osha is known for its potential benefits in improving digestion, boosting immunity, and possessing antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. While scientific studies, mainly on a related species, L. wallichii, suggest it may relax smooth muscle tissue and inhibit bacterial growth, more extensive human research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. Osha is generally considered safe but is not recommended for pregnant women due to risks of inducing menstruation. Caution is also advised due to the risk of contamination with toxic look-alike plants, such as hemlock parsley.
Osha's therapeutic uses
- DEFINITION: Natural plant product used to treat specific health conditions.
- PRINCIPAL PROPOSED USES: Cough, indigestion, respiratory infections, immune support, digestive aid, anti-inflammatory, adaptogen
Overview
Native to high altitudes in the Southwest and Rocky Mountain states, the root of the osha plant (Ligusticum porteri) is a traditional Indigenous American remedy for respiratory infections and digestive problems. A related plant, L. wallichii, has a long history of use in Chinese medicine, and most of the scientific studies on osha were actually performed on this species.
Therapeutic Dosages
Osha products vary in concentration and should be taken according to directions on the label.
Therapeutic Uses
Osha is frequently recommended for use at the first sign of a respiratory infection. Like a sauna, it will typically induce sweating, which, according to folk wisdom, may avert the development of a full-blown cold. Osha is also taken during respiratory infections as a cough suppressant and expectorant, hence the common name Colorado cough root. However, there have not been any double-blind, placebo-controlled studies to verify these proposed uses.
Chinese research suggests that L. wallichii can relax smooth muscle tissue (perhaps thereby moderating the cough reflex) and inhibit the growth of various bacteria. Whether these findings apply to osha as well is unknown. Like other bitter herbs, osha is said to improve symptoms of indigestion and increase appetite.
Osha demonstrates potential benefits beyond respiratory health, it but requires further human studies for confirmation. It is believed to boost immunity, possess antimicrobial properties, and aid with indigestion, lung diseases, and sore throats. Its antioxidant properties may combat free radicals linked to chronic conditions, while its anti-inflammatory potential might ease arthritis and muscle pain. Additionally, osha is suggested to have adaptogenic properties, helping the body manage stress. However, more research, especially human trials, is needed to substantiate these claims. Scientific study of osha has been limited to ethnobotanical, animal, and laboratory studies.
Safety Issues
Osha is believed to be safe, although the scientific record is far from complete. Traditionally, it is not recommended for use in pregnancy as it may induce menstruation, causing miscarriage. Safety in young children, nursing women, and those with severe liver or kidney disease also has not been established. One potential risk with osha is contamination with hemlock parsley, a deadly plant with a similar appearance.
Bibliography
Bensky, D., A. Gamble, and T. J. Kaptchuk. Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica. Seattle: Eastland Press, 1986.
Cervoni, Barbie. "Can Osha Root Really Fight Infections and Inflammation?" Verywell Health, 17 Apr. 2024, www.verywellhealth.com/potential-benefits-of-osha-4178766. Accessed 22 Sept. 2024.
Moore, M. Medicinal Plants of the Mountain West: A Guide to the Identification, Preparation, and Uses of Traditional Medicinal Plants Found in the Mountains, Foothills, and Upland Areas of the American West. Santa Fe: Museum of New Mexico Press, 1979.
Olsen, Natalie, and Kelli McGrane. "What Is Osha Root, and Does It Have Benefits?" Healthline, 5 June 2020, www.healthline.com/nutrition/osha-root. Accessed 22 Sept. 2024.