Larkspur
Parts Usually Used
Flowering plant, root, seeds
Description of Plant(s) and Culture
Larkspur is an annual plant; it has a slender taproot that produces the leafy, branching stem growing to a height of 2-4 feet and bears both petioled and sessile, finely divided leaves. The blue or purple flowers feature a spur projecting backward from the upper part and grow in terminal racemes from June to August. Another variety: Red larkspur (D. nudicaule), also known as sleep root.
Root has narcotic properties, which are made use of in causing an opponent to become stupid in gambling. Tea from root.
Where Found
Grows in rich or dry woods and on rocky slopes throughout the United States but most commonly in the western states; it is also common in Europe.
Medicinal Properties
Anthelmintic, cathartic, emetic, narcotic, parasitcide, purgative
Biochemical Information
A poisonous alkaloid, calcatrippine, which is the same as aconitine
Uses
Historically, herbalists prepared larkspur as a topical lotion or tincture intended to address lice and other parasites. Traditional practices avoided internal administration, and modern medicinal use of the plant declined due to its perceived limited action.
Warning
Several species are poisonous. Poisoning is possible if large quantities are consumed; seeds and the young plants are dangerous. Do not use internally.
Bibliography
The Herb Book , by John Lust, Bantam Books, 666 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY. copyright 1974. Indian Herbalogy of North America , by Alma R. , Lotus Press, PO Box 325, Twin Lakes. , 15 Columbus Circle, New York, NY 10023