Yerba Santa
Eriodictyon Californicum
Wildcrafted in California
Yerba Santa (Eriodictyon Californicum), meaning "holy herb" in Spanish, is a California native plant treasured by indigenous peoples and herbalists for its powerful respiratory benefits. This aromatic shrub grows wild in the dry hills and mountains of California and has been used for centuries to support lung health and clear congestion.
Traditional Uses
Yerba Santa is one of the most important respiratory herbs in Western herbalism. It acts as:
- Expectorant - Helps loosen and expel mucus from the lungs and bronchial passages
- Decongestant - Clears sinus congestion and opens nasal passages
- Bronchial support - Soothes irritated bronchial tissues
- Anti-inflammatory - Reduces inflammation in respiratory tissues
What is Yerba Santa Used For?
Respiratory conditions: Bronchitis, chest colds, COPD, asthma support, persistent coughs, and lung congestion. Yerba Santa is particularly helpful for wet, productive coughs where mucus needs to be expelled.
Allergies and sinus issues: Seasonal allergies, hay fever, sinus pressure, and nasal congestion. Works synergistically with Nettles and Eyebright for allergy relief.
Chronic respiratory support: For those with ongoing respiratory challenges, Yerba Santa can help maintain clear airways and healthy lung function.
How It Works
The leaves of Yerba Santa contain resins and volatile oils that have an affinity for the respiratory system. When taken as a tincture or tea, these compounds help thin mucus secretions, making them easier to expel while soothing irritated tissues.
Forms Available
At Homemade Herbals, Yerba Santa is featured in:
- Allergy Re-Leaf - Combined with Nettles, Eyebright, Ginkgo, Rosemary, and Goldenseal for comprehensive allergy support
- Wild Cherry Bark & Yerba Santa Cough Tincture - Paired with Wild Cherry Bark and Cinnamon for dry, persistent coughs
Dosage
30-60 drops 2-3x daily, or as directed. Can be taken in water or juice. For acute respiratory conditions, may be taken more frequently.
Safety
Yerba Santa is generally considered safe for most adults. As with all herbs, consult with a healthcare provider if pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. Not recommended for children under 2 without professional guidance.
Wildcrafting Notes
Our Yerba Santa is ethically wildcrafted from California hillsides, harvested at peak potency and prepared fresh to preserve its medicinal qualities. This California native thrives in our local ecosystem and represents the deep tradition of plant medicine in the Western United States.