Bayberry Uses
Answered by: Conrad Richter
Question from: Renetta
Posted on: February 16, 2001
I’d like some further information on bayberry as I’m reading about it and getting conflicting information about its uses.
Bayberry is one of several species of Myrica. The one we sell at Richters is M. pensylvanica. Another common name is wax myrtle or candleberry for its waxy berries which can be used to make candles.
The bark, leaves and wax are used medicinally. The herb is astringent and so it can be used to make astringent teas, gargles, douches and poultices. It is used for sore throat, diarrhea, dysentery, hemorrhages, and wounds.
Typically, the bark, leaves or wax are made into a decoction (boiled in water) or made into a tincture. For more information, see John Lust’s book, "The Herb Book" (available from Richters).
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