Osha Root (Ligusticum porteri) is a mountain plant native to western North America and can be found from the mountain ranges of Idaho and Wyoming down to the northwest regions of Mexico. It’s a member of the carrot family and is also called wild parsnip, Porter’s Lovage, or wild celery. While there are twelve types of Ligusticum species out there, only porteri is recognized as “true” Osha. 

Due to its known antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, indigenous people have used Osha Root medicinally for centuries to support the body’s response to a variety of respiratory and digestive concerns.  

Osha specifically promotes the activity of white blood cells in the lungs and is a potent bronchodilator. Because it has long been known to promote easy breathing, those traveling to high altitudes or endurance training will turn to Osha to enhance their breathing. 

Osha Root is also known to contain oxytocin, sometimes called the “love hormone,” because it promotes social bonding and healthy reproductive function. 

Osha Root contains a wide variety of constituents with unique properties, including alkaloids, phthalides, furanocoumarins, terpenoids, and phenolic compounds. The constituents found in Osha Root may: 

• Serve as an expectorant, clearing the upper respiratory tract 
• Provide antimicrobial properties to help the body rid itself of foreign invaders 
• Provide antioxidant support by increasing glutathione and antioxidant enzymes 
• Protect lung cells from damage  
• Promote a general sense of well-being 

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Remember, the Swiss watch of the body’s systems is a delicate balance! For more information, to test your systemic functions, and to discover possible triggers, contact a Wellness Way clinic. We can help you understand how your body is functioning and the best ways to support it!