Bowman's
Root, Indian Physic,
and many others
( Gillenia trifoliata,
Porteranthus trifoiatus )
The origin of the name "Bowman's" is murky. It's not at all clear whether it refers to a family name- Bowman or even Beaumont- or a title- a man with a bow and arrow or a sailor in the bow of a boat. And to obscure the issue even further, there are a numer of other species that are also called Bowman's Root.
The one thing they do have in common is a place in alternative medicine. Bowman's root in one form or another has been used as a tonic, a cathartic, purgative, tonic, laxative, and expectorant. It has been used to treat indigestion, colds, asthma, hepatitis, dyspepsia, dropsy, rheumatism, and bee stings. Truly a plant worth knowing by whatever name.
Provided by:
Glenn P., Arboretum
Volunteer
Photo by: Angela B., Arboretum Staff