{"id":297311,"date":"2026-02-12T14:24:11","date_gmt":"2026-02-12T14:24:11","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/?post_type=herb&p=297311"},"modified":"2026-04-16T14:06:36","modified_gmt":"2026-04-16T13:06:36","slug":"boneset","status":"publish","type":"herb","link":"https:\/\/www.herbalreality.com\/herb\/boneset\/","title":{"rendered":"Boneset"},"content":{"rendered":"","protected":false},"featured_media":297338,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":"","beyondwords_generate_audio":"1","beyondwords_integration_method":"rest-api","beyondwords_project_id":"47224","beyondwords_content_id":"da746146-079a-414c-b714-65ad0f515a39","beyondwords_preview_token":"07d05131-2b53-4a7a-98be-352227bf2722","beyondwords_player_content":"","beyondwords_player_style":"","beyondwords_language_code":"","beyondwords_language_id":"","beyondwords_title_voice_id":"","beyondwords_body_voice_id":"","beyondwords_summary_voice_id":"","beyondwords_error_message":"","beyondwords_disabled":"","beyondwords_delete_content":"","beyondwords_podcast_id":"","beyondwords_hash":"","publish_post_to_speechkit":"","speechkit_hash":"","speechkit_generate_audio":"","speechkit_project_id":"","speechkit_podcast_id":"","speechkit_error_message":"","speechkit_disabled":"","speechkit_access_key":"","speechkit_error":"","speechkit_info":"","speechkit_response":"","speechkit_retries":"","speechkit_status":"","speechkit_updated_at":"","_speechkit_link":"","_speechkit_text":""},"tags":[],"conditions":[685,701,699,695],"sustainability":[1576],"sense":[18],"western_action":[992,1132,996,1001,1007,1011,1016,1020,1021],"chinese_action":[],"ayurvedic_action":[],"energetics_action":[1498,1383,1487],"writer":[1344],"region":[1893],"class_list":["post-297311","herb","type-herb","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","conditions-digestive-system","conditions-immune-system","conditions-musculoskeletal-system","conditions-respiratory-system","sustainability-green-sustainability-status","sense-bitter","western_action-anti-inflammatory","western_action-antipyretic","western_action-antirheumatic","western_action-bitter","western_action-diaphoretic","western_action-febrifuge","western_action-laxative","western_action-stimulant","western_action-stomachic","energetics_action-bitter","energetics_action-cold","energetics_action-dry","writer-dr-amparo-aracil","region-western-herbs"],"acf":{"last_reviewed":"20260130","herb_author":1344,"banner_text":"Boneset is used to manage fever and infections","latin_name":"Eupatorium perfoliatum","pseudonym_name":"","family_name":"Asteraceae","herb_summary":"Boneset is a diaphoretic that helps to regulate fevers, as well as clear mucus from the respiratory system during an acute infection. ","key_benefits":"","how_does_it_feel":"Boneset is a bitter herb with a predominantly <\/span>diaphoretic<\/span><\/a> action (1). Its effects are most apparent in acute febrile states, where it supports sweating and assists in the regulation of body temperature (2). Taken as a hot infusion, it acts to relieve the heaviness, aching, and congestion associated with influenza and similar infections (1).<\/span>","hdif_image_1":297339,"hdif_image_2":297338,"hdif_image_3":297336,"hdif_video":"https:\/\/youtu.be\/J-V7tjfivb0","sense":[18],"what_can_i_use_it_for":"[caption id=\"attachment_297338\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"510\"]\"Boneset Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nBoneset (<\/span>Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/span><\/i>) is used in the management of acute infectious and febrile conditions, particularly influenza and influenza-like illnesses (3). It is indicated where symptoms include fever, chills, profound fatigue, and deep musculoskeletal aching (1,3). Its primary application is during the early stages of acute illness, where it supports diaphoresis and assists the body in regulating temperature and resolving fever. Boneset is not used as a long-term immune tonic but rather as a short-term medicine during acute infection.<\/span>\r\n\r\nBoneset is also used to support immune function during acute illness (1). Its polysaccharides have been shown to influence immune activity, including enhancement of phagocytosis, while the sesquiterpene lactones contribute to its anti-inflammatory action (4,5). These actions support its use in infections characterised by systemic involvement (like fever and general malaise) and inflammatory symptoms (1,6). Although some constituents demonstrate cytotoxic activity <\/span>in vitro<\/span><\/i>, boneset is not used clinically as a herb with antitumour properties (7).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn the respiratory system, boneset is used for acute conditions involving fever and congestion of the respiratory mucosa (1,3).Taken as a hot infusion, it is used in influenza, acute <\/span>bronchitis<\/span><\/a>, nasopharyngeal catarrh, <\/span>colds<\/span><\/a>, coughs and <\/span>allergic rhinitis<\/span><\/a> (1,8). Its diaphoretic and mild <\/span>expectorant<\/span><\/a> actions assist in clearing congestion and supporting the resolution of respiratory symptoms associated with infection.<\/span>\r\n\r\nBoneset can also be used to improve digestion. In small doses, its bitterness supports digestion, relieving indigestion, wind and bloating (1,3). In larger doses, its bitter principles can contribute to a <\/span>laxative<\/span><\/a> effect and mild hepatic stimulation, supporting elimination during short-term use (1). These actions support its use in conditions associated with metabolic congestion, such as inflammatory joint conditions and certain skin disorders (1).<\/span>","into_the_heart_of":"Boneset carries a distinctly bitter, cooling and drying energetic profile, with an affinity for conditions of cold, stagnation and systemic congestion. Its action moves inward and downward, engaging the core of the body rather than acting superficially. This makes it particularly suited to conditions that feel heavy and exhausting, where fever struggles to resolve and pain penetrates deeply. The plant\u2019s bitterness supports its capacity to stimulate hepatic processes, while its diaphoretic action and heat encourage movement, circulation and release (2).<\/span>","tradtional_uses":"[caption id=\"attachment_297341\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"513\"]\"Boneset Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nBoneset has a long history of use in North America, particularly among Indigenous peoples of the eastern woodlands, where it was regarded as an important remedy for fever and systemic illness (6). Native American tribes used the plant extensively for influenza, febrile conditions, and severe musculoskeletal pain (1,6). The common name \u201cboneset\u201d reflects its traditional use in illnesses where pain was described as penetrating \u2018to the bones\u2019, such as severe influenza and other high-fever conditions.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n\r\nDuring the 18th and 19th centuries, boneset was adopted into European-American medical practice and became a well-established remedy in Eclectic and Physiomedical medicine. It was used in the treatment of intermittent fevers, including malaria, as well as serious infectious diseases such as typhoid and yellow fever (3,6). Boneset appeared in the United States Pharmacopoeia from 1820 until 1916, where it was classified as a stimulant and diaphoretic, reflecting its perceived ability to promote sweating and support the resolution of fever during acute illness (6).<\/span>\r\n\r\nIn addition to its role in febrile conditions, boneset was traditionally used for muscular rheumatism, dyspepsia, and digestive weakness, particularly in older adults (1). Its bitter properties were used to improve digestive function and appetite during convalescence. Other historical applications included the treatment of cutaneous diseases and the elimination of intestinal parasites, such as tapeworm (1).\u00a0<\/span>","what_practioners_say":"

\"Respiratory<\/b>Respiratory system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nBoneset is widely recognised for its effects on the respiratory system. It has been used for influenza, acute bronchitis, and fevers accompanied by deep body aches, and was even used successfully during yellow fever outbreaks according to Bartram (6). For children with colds or feverishness, it is often combined with <\/span>yarrow<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Achillea millefolium<\/span><\/i>) or <\/span>elderflower<\/span><\/a> (<\/span>Sambucus nigra<\/span><\/i>) and traditionally administered three times daily (6). <\/span>\r\n\r\nIt is also indicated for conditions such as nasopharyngeal catarrh or influenza with congested respiratory mucosa and pronounced aching (3). A hot infusion is considered the most effective way to promote diaphoresis and sweating, supporting the body\u2019s natural response to fever (3). Hot infusions are also used to ease symptoms of allergic rhinitis, bronchitis, catarrh, colds, and coughs, and externally, a tea made from boneset can be applied to the skin to help reduce fevers (1).<\/span>\r\n

Immune system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nBoneset is indicated for flu as it promotes sweating, clears heat, and helps the body eliminate toxins (1). Laboratory studies suggest that its polysaccharides and sesquiterpene lactones can enhance white blood cell production and stimulate phagocytosis, providing measurable immune support (1). It also has anti-inflammatory properties, and some constituents, including sesquiterpene lactones and eupatorin, exhibit cytotoxic activity<\/span> in vitro<\/span><\/i>, although these effects are not applied clinically (1).<\/span>\r\n

Digestive system<\/a><\/h3>\r\nThe bitterness of boneset can lead to a laxative effect, especially when used in larger doses, supporting digestive function (3). Because of boneset\u2019s bitter compounds, this herb can relieve indigestion, bloating, wind and spasmodic abdominal pain (1). Additionally, boneset supports the body\u2019s elimination processes through mild hepatic stimulation, and asa mild laxative, which explains its traditional use in arthritis, skin conditions and intestinal worms (1).<\/span>","research":"[caption id=\"attachment_297337\" align=\"alignright\" width=\"443\"]\"Boneset Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/em>)[\/caption]\r\n\r\nResearch into the effects of boneset in humans has not been conducted.\u00a0<\/span>\r\n

Eupatorium perfoliatum <\/i>counteracts TNF-\u03b1 mediated pathogenesis in chikungunya virus infection (9)<\/h3>\r\nThis study aimed to evaluate whether an ultradiluted hydroethanolic preparation of <\/span>Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/span><\/i> could counteract TNF-\u03b1-mediated pathogenic processes in chikungunya virus (CHIKV) infection, focusing on inflammatory mechanisms rather than direct antiviral effects. <\/span>\r\n\r\nNo human participants were involved; the research was conducted using <\/span>in silico<\/span><\/i> molecular docking, <\/span>in vivo<\/span><\/i> transcriptional and translational analyses, and <\/span>in vitro<\/span><\/i> cytopathic assays in experimental models to simulate disease processes and treatment effects. The primary outcome was reduction of TNF-\u03b1 transcription and translation levels, with secondary outcomes including lowered expression of hub genes implicated in CHIKV pathogenesis and reduced cytopathic effects following infection. <\/span>\r\n\r\nResults showed strong predicted molecular interactions between boneset\u2019s constituents and TNF-\u03b1, and treatment with the candidate preparation was associated with lowered TNF-\u03b1 expression, attenuation of inflammatory pathology, and reduced cytopathic impacts in the models used, suggesting potential to modulate inflammation linked to CHIKV pathogenesis (9).<\/span>\r\n

Anti-inflammatory activity of Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/i> L. extracts, eupafolin, and dimeric guaianolide via iNOS inhibitory activity and modulation of inflammation-related cytokines and chemokines<\/h3>\r\nThis study investigated the anti-inflammatory effects of <\/span>Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/span><\/i> extracts and isolated compounds (eupafolin and a dimeric guaianolide) using LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 macrophage cells (<\/span>in vitro<\/span><\/i>). The extracts and compounds were tested for inhibition of nitric oxide (NO) production and modulation of pro-inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe dichloromethane extract and the isolated compounds showed significant inhibition of NO and reduced expression of cytokines including IL-1\u03b1, IL-1\u03b2, CCL2, CCL22, and CXCL10, while TNF-\u03b1 was moderately affected. These results demonstrate measurable anti-inflammatory activity at the cellular level, providing experimental support for boneset\u2019s traditional use in inflammatory conditions, although no human or animal subjects were involved (10).<\/span>\r\n

Antiviral activity of hydroalcoholic extract from Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/i> L. against the attachment of influenza A virus<\/h3>\r\nThis study investigated the antiviral activity of hydroalcoholic extracts from <\/span>Eupatorium perfoliatum <\/span><\/i>against influenza A virus in MDCK II cells (<\/span>in vitro<\/span><\/i>). No human participants were involved. The extract was tested for its ability to inhibit viral attachment, plaque formation, and hemagglutination. <\/span>It significantly reduced viral binding and plaque formation at concentrations of ~1\u201310\u202f\u00b5g\/mL, with low cytotoxicity, and high-molecular-weight polyphenols were identified as likely active compounds. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThese results suggest that boneset extracts can inhibit influenza A virus attachment in cell culture, supporting further investigation as a potential antiviral agent (11).<\/span>","did_you_know":"The name <\/span>Eupatorium perfoliatum<\/span><\/i> comes from the unique way its leaves grow. The stem appears to pass through a single pair of joined leaves, a feature called \u201cperfoliate\u201d leaves, which is uncommon and makes the plant easy to identify in the wild (12).<\/span>","additional_information_right":{"illustration":297340},"additional_information_left":{"botany":"Boneset is a perennial herb in the Asteraceae family, growing 0.6\u20131.8\u202fm tall with erect, branching, hairy stems. It arises from a fibrous root system and is found in moist habitats such as marshes, wet meadows and stream banks. <\/span>\r\n\r\nThe leaves are opposite, lance-shaped to triangular, with serrated margins. Mid- and lower-stem leaves are perfoliate, with their bases joined around the stem, giving the appearance that the stem passes through the leaf. Stems are green and hairy, sometimes reddish at the base. <\/span>\r\n\r\nWhite flowers are grouped in flat-topped or slightly convex clusters (corymbs) at the ends of stems from mid-summer to early fall. Each cluster contains 9\u201323 small disk flowers. The fruit is a small, dry achene with fine hairs that helps wind dispersal (13).<\/span>","common_names":"