A native of eastern North America, Eupatorium serotinum is currently listed as endangered in New York. The Houma Native American tribe of Louisiana used a decoction of the flowers for typhoid fever. Other members of the Eupatorium genus has been used widely for medicinal purposes for treatment of fever, colds, bronchitis, and skin diseases. The plant has been shown to stimulate resistance to viral and bacterial infections and reduces fevers by stimulating sweating. It is a common ingredient in homeopathic medicines for treatment of the flu. 

The leaves have been used to treat dengue fever.  Modern German research suggests that Common Boneset may act as a general immune system stimulant.  It has also been used as a diaphoretic and weak anti-inflammatory.  

Caution: Common Boneset is emetic and laxative in large doses, and it may contain pyrrolizidine alkaloids that are potentially harmful to the liver. 

Formulas & recipes
The leaf, stem and flowers are made into a tea or tonic, usually with other herbs to temper bitterness. Combine with sweet herbs, flowers and fruits in tea blends.. 

How to make boneset tea

• Add boneset to a tea ball and steep in boiled water
• Cover for 8-10 minutes.
• Sweeten with honey to taste.

Boneset tincture recipe

• Add boneset to a clean container with a good seal such as a mason jar
• Pour vodka about 1 inch over the top of the herb
• Seal and allow to sit in a cool dark place for 4-6 weeks
• When it reaches your preferred intensity, strain out the boneset tincture

Adult dosage: 1/4 to 1 teaspoon of tincture 2-3 times daily or 1-2 rounded
teaspoons of powder 2-3 times daily

Safety: Boneset can be toxic in high doses. Do not use during pregnancy, breastfeeding or if you have liver problems or if you have a known allergy to plants in the daisy family.