Boneset (eupatorium perfoliatum)
Synopsis of boneset
Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) is a native North American herb traditionally used by Indigenous peoples and early American herbalists to treat fevers, viral infections, and inflammatory conditions. Despite its name, boneset does not support bone health directly—it gained its name from its historical use in treating “breakbone fever” (an old term for dengue fever), due to its ability to relieve the intense aches and body pains associated with febrile illnesses.
The aerial parts of the plant—leaves and flowering tops—are used medicinally and contain sesquiterpene lactones (including euperfolitin), polysaccharides, and flavonoids, which contribute to its effects as:
- A febrifuge – reducing or managing fever
- A diaphoretic – promoting sweating to help break a fever
- An immunostimulant – enhancing resistance to infections
- A mild laxative and digestive tonic
- An anti-inflammatory for body aches and respiratory congestion
Boneset is typically consumed as a hot infusion (tea) to maximize its diaphoretic action, or as a tincture or extract for immune and upper respiratory support.
Historical Use:
Boneset was a staple remedy in Native American medicine, used by tribes such as the Cherokee and Iroquois to treat colds, fevers, rheumatism, and influenza-like illnesses. Its strong association with treating epidemic fevers led to its widespread adoption in 19th-century Eclectic medicine, where it was one of the most commonly prescribed herbs for influenza, typhoid, and malaria.
In early American herbalism, boneset was often described as a remedy to “cleanse the system,” promote sweating, and break fevers, especially when accompanied by chills and muscle aches. It was also used to stimulate sluggish digestion and relieve constipation, particularly in those weakened by infection.
Though it fell out of favor with the rise of pharmaceutical antipyretics, boneset has remained in use among traditional herbalists and modern naturopaths for its broad-spectrum immune-stimulating and anti-inflammatory activity, especially during cold and flu season.
Today, boneset is valued in immune support formulas, especially for managing fever, respiratory congestion, and viral infections. Caution is advised with long-term or high-dose use due to the presence of pyrrolizidine alkaloids, which may be hepatotoxic if consumed in excess. However, when used appropriately and short-term, boneset is a powerful ally in natural fever and infection management.
Boneset is used for these health conditions
Bronchitis (Traditional)
Colds (general) (Traditional)
Congestion (bronchial) (Traditional)
Congestion (lungs) (Traditional)
Congestion (sinus) (Traditional)
Cough (dry) (Traditional)
Cough (general) (Traditional)
Cough (spastic) (Traditional)
Fever (Traditional)
Infection (Traditional)
Infection (viral) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Influenza (Traditional)
Laryngitis (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Pneumonia (Traditional)
Sore Throat (Traditional)
Sweat Baths (herbs for) (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
boneset is used to support these body systems
Digestive System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Lungs (Traditional)
Lymphatics (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Respiratory System (Traditional)
Sinuses (Traditional)
Skeletal System (Bones) (Traditional)
