DOUGLAS IRIS

Thrives in well-drained, slightly acidic soil, ideally planted in partial shade or morning sun. These native, drought-tolerant plants should be placed 1-2 feet apart with rhizomes just barely below or at the soil surface, especially in late fall or early spring.

• Has a rich history of traditional medicinal use among Indigenous peoples, particularly for treating infections, toothaches, and respiratory issues. 
• A poultice of the raw rhizome is especially effective against staph sores. Externally, iris is successfully used in infected wounds, ulcers, and fistulas, plus to take away freckles.
• Only the dry root should be used internally. Iris is active as a cathartic, has a stimulating effect on the production of both pancreatic enzymes and bile, is a strong diuretic, and will stimulate both saliva and sweat.
• This is a useful medicinal plant, but in general should be used with care and preferably in combinations where less energetic plants form the bulk of a medicinal formula. Tea from iris roots was used for kidney trouble by several California Indian peoples (Murphey 1959). The Yana chewed iris roots to cure coughs. The Modoc used an iris root decoction to soothe sore eyes. A piece of iris root was inserted in a tooth cavity to kill the nerve, so the tooth will come out. Tests showed slight bactericidal effects, slight effects on rabbit pneumonia, and an ascorbic acid content of 4% (Archer 1957).
• Roots were burned and the smoke inhaled to alleviate dizziness.
• A root decoction was used as a cathartic and emetic, but large doses could cause severe digestive problems.

* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.

No recommadations at this time.