Pagoda Dogwood – Cornus alternifolia

Pagoda Dogwood was employed medicinally by a number of native North American Indian tribes who valued it particularly for its astringent bark which was used both internally and externally to treat diarrhoea, skin problems etc. It is little used in modern herbalism. The dried bark is used as an astringent, to increase perspiration and as a stimulant. The inner bark was boiled and the solution used as an enema and this solution was also used as a tea to reduce fevers, treat the flu, diarrhoea, headaches, voice loss etc. It was used as a wash for the eyes. A compound infusion of the bark and roots has been used to treat childhood diseases such as measles and worms. It has also been used as a wash on areas of the body affected by sexually transmitted infections. A poultice of the powdered bark has been used to treat swellings, blisters etc.

Other uses:

A light to dark-brown dye is obtained from the roots with the addition of vinegar.

Always take advice from a certified herbalist before taking herbal remedies.