Product Description
Osha Root (Ligusticum porteri): A Powerful Ally for Respiratory Health
Osha root, scientifically known as Ligusticum porteri, is a revered medicinal plant native to the Rocky Mountains and southwestern United States. Traditionally used by Indigenous cultures and herbalists, it is renowned for its profound benefits in respiratory health, immune support, and overall well-being.
Botanical Profile and Key Compounds
Osha belongs to the Apiaceae family, sharing similarities with angelica and lovage. Its aromatic, resinous root contains potent bioactive compounds, including:
- Z-ligustilide and other phthalides – exhibit anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties
- Coumarins – support circulation and act as mild blood thinners
- Alkaloids and saponins – enhance immune modulation
- Essential oils – provide antimicrobial and expectorant effects
Osha Root and Respiratory Health
Osha has a long history of use for respiratory ailments, making it a staple in treating coughs, colds, and lung congestion. Its benefits include:
1. Expectorant and Decongestant Actions
Osha helps loosen and expel mucus from the lungs, facilitating easier breathing. It is particularly beneficial for those with bronchitis, pneumonia, or deep-seated congestion.
2. Antiviral and Antibacterial Properties
The root contains compounds that combat viral and bacterial infections, making it an excellent remedy for colds, influenza, and respiratory infections.
3. Bronchodilatory and Antispasmodic Effects
Osha relaxes the bronchial muscles, easing tightness and wheezing in conditions like asthma, COPD, and chronic coughs.
4. Oxygenation and Circulatory Enhancement
By improving blood flow and oxygen uptake, Osha supports overall lung function, which is particularly helpful in high-altitude environments or for those with compromised respiratory function.
5. Throat Soothing and Cough Suppression
Its mild numbing effect helps soothe sore throats and suppress dry, irritated coughs, making it a preferred remedy for persistent coughing.
Traditional and Modern Uses
- Tea or decoction: Simmered root is commonly used for colds and congestion.
- Tincture: Alcohol or glycerin extractions provide a concentrated respiratory tonic.
- Steam inhalation: Helps clear nasal passages and ease breathing.
- Lozenges and syrups: Used for throat irritation and persistent coughs.
Safety Considerations
While Osha is generally well-tolerated, it should be used with caution in individuals on blood thinners due to its coumarin content. It is not recommended during pregnancy. Sustainable sourcing is crucial, as Osha is wild-harvested and its populations are at risk due to overharvesting.
Conclusion
Osha root remains one of the most powerful natural allies for respiratory health. Its unique combination of expectorant, antimicrobial, and bronchodilatory properties makes it invaluable for colds, flu, congestion, and chronic respiratory conditions. When used mindfully and ethically, Osha continues to serve as a potent tool in herbal respiratory care.
COMMON NAME: Osha, Porter's Lovage
BOTANICAL NAME: Ligusticum porteri
PLANT FAMILY: Apiaceae
Osha root is a Rocky Mountain herb and has been used by the Native Americans for treating respiratory infections and conditions of the digestive system. Today the herb is used in alternative medicine for treating colds and symptoms of viral infections. Osha root extract also induces sweating, and for fevers that will not go away, it works to kick out viral infections before they can become full-blown. It is known for its diuretic action and may help to relieve urinary problems such as stones and excess retained water. Like other bitter herbs, Osha stimulates appetite "feeds a cold".
Many people struggle daily with mucus and congestion problems, and it is a wonder that the benefits of Osha root tinctures are not more well-known. The herb can help to clear mucus from the sinuses and lungs, thereby helping to relieve congestion and make breathing much easier. It contains a number of volatile oils, including camphor, essential oils, saponins, terpenes, ferulic acid, phytosterols and lactone glycoside. It has been found to have the ability to elevate body temperature and induce sweating. It is used for such conditions as head colds with dry or wet cough, irritating coughs, sore throats, bronchial infections, early stages of tonsillitis, pneumatic complaints and pharyngitis. Also helpful in asthma to keep the lungs clear and the bronchial dilated. Combined with Echinacea against leukocytosis, an increase in white blood cells, it can be extremely beneficial as a powerful antiviral, and antibacterial herb, but mild for the other body systems.
It has been used internally in the treatment of digestive complaints, painful menstruation, and retained placenta. It has also been used to in cases of TB and headaches. An infusion of the roots is used externally to treat body aches. It aches like a mild anesthetic and numbs the area to reduce toothache pain.
Ingredients: Wildharvested Osha root, grain alcohol 60%, spring water We get our osha root from a small herb supplier out west where it is sustainably harvested, then we grind it down to a powder to make a very potent extract.
Instructions: Teens and adults, use 1-2 ml (each ml is approximately 15 drops); osha root works well at a lower dose than most herb extracts, so keep that in mind. Add to some water or juice and drink; hold in the mouth and swish around to get more of the pain-numbing effect if you have a sore throat. Take 3-4 times daily as needed, being sure to take your last dose before bed, as it raises oxytocin and is calming and also quiets the nagging cough that can keep you awake. As it does have relaxing properties, keep your doses lower during the day if you need to be alert. If you're sick and able to rest, all the better to take it. Children: small amounts (just a drop or two) work well for young children; for older children titrate the dose upwards, with a 10 year old getting may 5-10 drops. Call me if you need more personlized guidance: 603-439-2603.
Contraindications: Pregnant and nursing women should not use Osha Root as it may act as an abortive in the first five days of pregnancy. It should not be used by those who have impaired or inflamed kidneys. Do not use if you have edema (swelling) as a result of kidney or heart disease. Excessive use (many times the recommended dosage) may cause kidney damage.
Disclaimer: The information presented is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own healthcare provider.
*This statement not evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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8 Reviews
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osha root extract
Makes a cough go away in 3 days
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osha root extract
Cleared my ear and throat pain in 3 days. Normally takes a week.
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OSHA root
I have been coughing my brains out from post nasal drip for the past week...at best sleep for a half hour and would be awakened with a coughing fit...was seriously wearing me down! I bought this and took some right away when I got out to my car and another dose when I got home...slept for 2 1/2 hours straight and woke up feeling so so much better! This is the most dramatic effect from any herb or medicine I have taken thus far.
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Osha root
Got this last week for my allergies, taste is ok but this is magic in a bottle.
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OSHA root
So thankful my mom turned me on to this stuff! Nips a sore/scratchy throat in the bud and it’s super effective for knocking out nasal/bronchial congestion. I keep it stocked in my cupboard and use it year round for allergies and cold/flu season.
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osha root
I get terrible allergy headaches every spring and osha root has given me my life back!!
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Great for allergies
I have year round allergies, but the Osha root helps calm the sinus and throat symptoms. I only wish it tasted better.
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OSHA root
I find ver effective when I have a cough!
