Lomatium, known by various names such as fern leaf biscuitroot, desert parsley, and giant lomatium, is a perennial herb characterized by its thick, woody taproot. It is native to western North America and has a rich history of use among Native American tribes, who regarded it as a source of food, medicine, and a ceremonial plant. The root of lomatium, which possesses an aromatic quality and is considered energetically warming and drying, is highly valued for its ability to support overall well-being and its affinity for the respiratory system. Traditionally, the tender young shoots and taproots of lomatium were consumed as food or brewed into a beverage, offering a strongly resinous and somewhat bitter flavor. Lomatium tincture can be taken alone or mixed with juice or water.
According to a report from the University of California, Lomatium dissectum, a potent antiviral plant used by Native Americans during the 1918 influenza epidemic, may serve as a robust remedy for contemporary cold and flu cases. The root exhibits antiviral properties and possesses respiratory-clearing abilities that are particularly effective in addressing secondary infections associated with multiple strains of influenza.
Lomatium stands out as one of the most powerful M2 inhibitors known, surpassing the pharmaceutical drug amantadine in strength.
Throughout history, Native Americans extensively used lomatium, primarily for treating respiratory ailments. It is recognized for its antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic qualities, and is commonly utilized by naturopathic physicians for internal use in the treatment of cervical dysplasia. Lomatium has demonstrated efficacy against human papillomavirus (HPV), herpes simplex virus (HSV), and has been studied for its effects on human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). It is often employed to address “slow” viruses accompanied by immune suppression and is frequently combined with other immune-enhancing herbs. Additionally, lomatium is topically applied to soothe gum and mouth inflammations and used as a douche for vaginal infections.
Lomatium Root Tincture has been utilized in homeopathy as a treatment for various sexually transmitted diseases and has also shown effectiveness against HIV/AIDS.
Lomatium, an all-natural herb with potent antiviral properties, is a must-have for every herbalist, from beginners to masters. Its efficacy in remedying and expediting the healing process of viral infections is well-documented. When combined with other antiviral herbs, its effects are truly remarkable.
In 1920, Dr. Ernst Krebs, a young physician, shared his experience with lomatium in the Bulletin of the Nevada State Board of Health. Dr. Krebs was stationed at the Washoe reservation during the outbreak of the Spanish flu, an avian strain that claimed the lives of over 500,000 Americans and millions worldwide. Remarkably, not a single death from influenza or its complications occurred among the Washoe tribe, where lomatium grew abundantly. Dr. Krebs, intrigued by this coincidence, conducted further investigation and found that a preparation derived from lomatium proved highly effective in treating influenza, including severe cases with accompanying pneumonia, among both the Native American population and the wider community. Other physicians who tried lomatium reported similar results. Its therapeutic efficacy in combating epidemic influenza and associated pneumonia was firmly established, with hundreds of cases successfully treated. The value of lomatium in treating influenzal pneumonia was unparalleled.
The next significant account of lomatium comes from Percy Train, a researcher sent by the U.S. government to Nevada in the mid-1930s to explore local plants for potential drug development. Over six years, Train discovered that lomatium possessed unparalleled germ-killing capabilities, proving effective against a wide range of microbes. As herbalist Michael Moore noted, lomatium was even safe to use on rats without causing harm.
Lomatium’s antiviral properties are particularly effective against respiratory tract viruses. Many of the plant’s antiviral compounds are excreted through the lung mucosa, allowing them to reach the targeted area. It acts as a mild expectorant, effectively thinning congested mucus. However, lomatium’s true strength lies in its ability to eradicate deep lung infections as a potent germ-killer.
Notably, lomatium has demonstrated great success in combating Candida albicans, effectively resolving most yeast infections. Additionally, it can be applied topically between the toes to eliminate athlete’s foot.
Scientific investigation into lomatium has revealed that the volatile oil fractions found in the root possess antiviral and antibiotic properties. It also exhibits potent antibacterial and antifungal effects. Lomatium dissectum extract exerts a viro-static effect, halting the growth of various viruses, bacteria, and fungi within the body, while eliminating harmful microorganisms without harming those necessary for good health.
Extensive research on Lomatium dissectum has been conducted by numerous universities, confirming its powerful, non-toxic, viro-static effects against influenza viruses, the trachoma virus, the Lansing Polio viruses, and many other viral strains. A 1944 report from the Journal of Bacteriology stated, “The anti-biotic activity of oil fractions separated from the root of Lomatium dissectum was determined on 62 strains and species of bacteria, molds, and fungi. The heat-stable active agent was bactericidal for gram-positive bacteria at 10-4 dilutions and at 10-3 for gram-negative bacteria.”
When using lomatium, it is crucial to maintain proper hydration by consuming plenty of water. This enables the body to effectively flush out toxins. Fresh, green juices are also beneficial for nourishing the body during the detoxification process. It is advisable to avoid fried food, junk food, processed food, soda, milk, dairy, and most meat while detoxing. Giving the body a break from solid food for 2-3 days, consuming only fresh juice, can significantly expedite the resolution of a rash. If a juice fast is not feasible, it is essential to consume clean, nutritious food.
For adults, the recommended dosage of lomatium tincture is 3 to 10lomatium root drops, taken 3 to 5 times daily or more, with a gradual increase in dosage over the first 7 days. For children, the dosage is 3 to 4 drops, taken 4 to 6 times daily, also with a gradual increase in quantity and frequency. In the case of babies, 1 to 2 drops can be added to water or juice.
It is worth noting that approximately 1% of individuals who use lomatium may experience a skin rash. The rash can range from mild to full-body and may cause severe itching and discomfort. However, this reaction can be alleviated by taking Dandelion Root, Vitamin C, and Pantothenic Acid. Additionally, a two-day juice fast has been found to expedite the detoxification process, and the inclusion of freshly squeezed wheatgrass juice is highly beneficial.
Two remarkable aspects of lomatium are worth mentioning. Firstly, the body does not seem to develop immunity to lomatium, allowing it to be taken for extended periods during the healing process of systemic viral, fungal, or yeast issues. Many individuals opt to take a preventative dose of lomatium daily during cold and flu seasons or when traveling, particularly by airplane. A recommended preventative dose for adults is 25 drops once or twice a day. Secondly, the dosage of lomatium can be safely increased until the desired effect is achieved. Lifelong users of lomatium have reported using 25-50 drops per dose every hour to successfully treat urinary tract infections, ear infections, colds, flu, and other acute infections.
It is important to exercise common sense when using herbal medicine for self-treatment or treatment of family members. If chronic conditions persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a qualified healthcare professional.