Morella cerifera Origin- USA

Also known as- Myrica cerifera, wild cinnamon, Candleberry, Myrica, Myrica cerifera, Myrica pensylvanica, Southern Bayberry, Southern Wax Myrtle, Tallow Shrub, Vegetable Tallow, Waxberry. Not to be confused with barberry.

Introduction: Bayberry is a marshland plant of the eastern United States. Growing 3 to 8 feet (75 to 200 cm) high, it has lance-shaped, waxy, green leaves, tiny flowers, and globular berries of numerous grains coated in green wax. The leaves release an intense, pleasant fragrance when rubbed. This scent is a safe insect repellent for dogs.

Constituents: Alpha-pinene, ascorbic acid, beta-carotene, betulin, calcium, chromium, cobalt, fiber, gallic acid, magnesium, manganese, myricitrin, niacin, phenolic acid, tannins and tannic acid.

Parts Used: Dried root bark and sometimes just the root.

Typical Preparations: Powders, teas, tinctures, and poultices. The tea should be drunk hot. Poultices are usually made by combining bayberry and slippery elm.

Summary: The original use of bayberry was in treating "cankers," at one time understood to be accumulations of cold at various sites in the body. Tannins make bayberry bark astringent, sealing over sites of inflammation and infection in the mouth, gums, and throat, and stimulant, inducing productive coughs that release phlegm. An alcoholic tincture of the bark may reduce sensitivity of the prostate to testosterone; research is ongoing.

Precautions: For occasional use only. Since bayberry can stimulate uterine contractions, avoid during pregnancy. If you are allergic to bayberry wax, use with caution.

For educational purposes only This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease

Folklore Information

Information Obtained from mountain rose herbs @ http://www.mountainroseherbs.com/