Family Name: Scrophulariaceae
Botanical Name(s): Leptandra virginica
Popular Name(s): Culvers Root, Culvers Physic, Physic Root,
Veronicastrum Virginica, Tall Speedwell
Parts Used: Rhizome and root
Habitat: Black Root is found in the eastern United States.
Description: Black Root is an herbaceous perennial with a
slender, simple stem which grows to a height of 2 to 5 feet. The plant
possesses lanceolate, serrate leaves that grow in whorls of four to
seven. Its numerous white flowers grow in panicled spikes. The fruits
are oblong-ovate shaped, flattened and contain many seeds.
Uses: Black Root is used as a cholagogue, cathartic, emetic,
laxative and diaphoretic substance. It is used to treat diarrhoea,
chronic dysentery, chronic constipation, nausea and dull frontal
headache.
