Aster Herbs

eHow
July 8, 2011

Aster is a perennial plant native to Eurasia. Its roots are used in homeopathic treatments as an expectorant to relieve cough and loosen phlegm. The word “aster” is from the Greek meaning “star,” referring to the shape of its flowering head. There are many species of aster, most of which grow in North America. Aster is a hardy plant that thrives in most climates.

Physical Characteristics
The name “aster” refers to the star shape of the flowering head. Aster herbs have many petals surrounding yellow stamens. The daisy is a member of the aster genus, and most species resemble it. Aster occurs in many colors, commonly blue, purple and white. Their green stems can grow several feet tall. The roots, used for medicinal purposes, are purple in color and stringy.

Varieties
Nearly 250 species of aster are known. Some common North American species are heart-leaved aster (cordifolius), white wood aster (divaricatus), smooth blue aster (laevis), New England aster (novae-angliae), New York aster (novae-belgii), white heath aster (pilosus) and flat-top white aster (umbellatus). The aster genus is native to Europe and Asia. While many species grow in the United States, none are truly native. Many that were once thought to be North American native species were later classified under another genus.

Medicinal Uses
Ancient Chinese medicine used aster root as an expectorant, calling it “zi wan.” Pliable purple or red roots of flowering aster braided and dried in the sun, then fried or baked with honey and consumed to combat lung dryness, coughing and phlegm obstructions. Echinacea is a well-known aster herb, used in Western culture for immune boosting and treating upper respiratory infections. Sales of Echinacea account for 10 percent of the American dietary supplement market, though the efficacy of the herb is dubious.

Warnings
People with allergies to plants in the Asteraceae or Compositae families, such as ragweed or daisies, may suffer allergic reactions to Echinacea and aster root. Reactions can range from skin rash and itching to anaphylaxis, which can cause death. Side effects of Echinacea include nausea, sore throat, dizziness and headaches. Echinacea is not recommended for people with immune disorders, cancer, tuberculosis, multiple sclerosis or rheumatologic disorders, or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

References
Mayo Clinic: Echinacea
Neuropathy Digest: Aster (zi wan)
Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation: Native Herbs
Jade Institute: Zi Wan