Queen's Root
Stillingia sylvatica
PLANT NAME
Queen's Root
COMMON NAMES
Queen's Delight, Stillingia, Yaw Root, Silver Leaf.
BOTANICAL NAME
Stillingia sylvatica
IDENTIFICATION
A perennial herb in the spurge family (Euphorbiaceae) native to the southeastern US. It has smooth stems, alternate leathery leaves, and a terminal spike of tiny yellow flowers. It produces a milky sap when broken.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Root (used fresh or recently dried, as it loses potency with age).
CULINARY USES
Not used as food. Toxic if improperly prepared or ingested in large amounts.
TRADITIONAL USES
A prominent Eclectic remedy and Native American medicine used as an alterative (blood purifier) for chronic skin conditions, syphilis, and glandular congestion. Also used as an expectorant for respiratory conditions.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Found in sandy soils, pine barrens, and dry woods in the US South. Roots are harvested in the autumn after the plant dies back.
SAFETY / CAUTION
The fresh plant and milky sap are highly irritating to the skin and mucous membranes. Large doses of the root cause vomiting, diarrhea, and prostration. Use requires expert guidance. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Other members of the Euphorbiaceae family.