LIFE ROOT
Senecio aureus
COMMON NAMES: Squaw weed, ragwort, false valerian, golden senecio, female regulator, cocash weed,
groundsel.
FEATURES: Life root and various other composite herbs of the genus Senecio are common in most parts of
the world. In North America they are found mostly in the eastern states. As these species possess the same
medicinal properties, they can be used interchangeably. These perennial, coarse, yellow-flowered plants
are allied to the thistles. Can be found in low marshy grounds and on the banks of creeks. The stems are
erect and smooth, 1–2 feet high; radical leaves are simple and rounded, upper leaves are few, dentate, and
sessile. Flowers in May and June. Popular with Native Americans, homeopaths, and herbalists.
MEDICINAL PARTS: Root, whole herb.
SOLVENT: Diluted alcohol.
BODILY INFLUENCE: Stimulant, diuretic, emmenagogue, pectoral, astringent, tonic.
USES: We of the modern age are bewildered by so many female abnormalities, from granddaughter to
grandmother. The time-honored “female regulator” (Senecio aureus), of specific use and without
complications, is still reliable. Senecio stimulates the pelvic organs relieving engorgement by removing
pressure stemming from the perineum, bladder, and rectum. A completely safe aid in gynecological
disorders such as dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation), menorrhagia (excessive menstruation),
suppressed menstruation, atonic leukorrhea (excessive mucous secretion), and other disturbances of the
pelvic organs, including various functional irregularities of menopause. It strengthens flabby uterine
ligaments and has a use for diseases of men when prostatic enlargement is of the soft, boggy, and atonic
type. It is also valuable in gravel, stones, and diarrhea.
In pulmonary complaints it is advisable to combine 1 teaspoonful of the fluid extract with other
pectorals in sweetened water. Life root is indicated for many different uses as a household remedy.
CAUTION: Toxic in doses larger than those indicated below.