Liferoot

This large, cosmopolitan genus contains over 1000 species of annuals, biennials, perennials, evergreen shrubs, trees, and climbers. They contain toxic pyrrolizidine alkaloids, similar to those found in Symphytum officinale (See, Comfrey) which are associated with liver damage. Various species are grown as ornamentals but many others are weeds; those common in pasture cause serious poisoning and ill health in livestock. Senecio aureus (liferoot) is a classic herbal "female regulator", used by several native N American tribes to ease childbirth and treat complaints of the female reproductive system. It was also mentioned by Dr. Charles Millspaugh (American Medicinal Plants, 1892) as a substitute for Ergot (Claviceps purpurea) to control pulmonary hemorrhage. Although declared a "completely safe aid in gynaecological disorders" (Hutchens, Indian Herbology of North America, in 1973), it is no longer considered safe for internal use because of its alkaloids. Senecio vulgaris (Groundsel) has similar uses but is also no longer regarded as safe. Senecio jacobaea (ragwort) is used externally, often combined with Gaultheria procumbens (See, Wintergreen) and Lobelia inflata (See, Indian Tobacco) in lotions to relieve arthritis, rheumatism, muscular pain, and sciatica. Senecio is from the Latin senex, "old man", referring to the white-haired seeds.

Perennial with heart-shaped, blunt, toothed basal leaves, to 15cm (6in) long, and narrow, pinnate upper leaves. Yellow, daisy-like flowers are borne in branched, terminal clusters in spring and early summer.

Common Name:	Liferoot
Other Names:	Squaw Weed, Golden Ragwort
Botanical Name:	Senecio aureus syn. Packera aurea
Genus:	Senecio
Family:	Asteraceae
Native Location:	Eastern N America to Texas
Cultivation:	Damn to wet soil in sun or partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed sown in autumn or spring; by division in autumn or spring.
Harvest:	Plants are cut before flowering and dried for use in infusions and liquid extracts. Roots are lifted in autumn and dried for powder.
Height:	15-75cm (6-30in)
:Width	15-60cm (6-24in)
Hardiness:	Z5-9
Parts Used:	Whole plant, rhizomes
Properties:	A bitter, astringent herb that is diuretic stimulates the uterus, controls bleeding.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally for failure to menstruate, menopausal symptoms, prolonged labor, and pulmonary hemorrhage. Externally for vaginal discharge.
Warning:	Contraindicated during pregnancy. No longer considered safe for internal use. This herb is subject to legal restrictions in some countries.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 366