Yerba Mansa

Identity

Common Name

Yerba Mansa

Scientific Name

Anemopsis californica

Botanical Family

Saururaceae

Native Region

Southwestern United States and northern Mexico

Cultivation Regions

Southwestern United States, Northern Mexico

Plant Parts Used

Aerial parts, Root

Synonyms

Gentle Herb, Lizard Tail, Swamp Root

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A low spreading wetland perennial with large basal grey-green oval leaves and a conical white flower spike surrounded by a ring of white petal-like bracts, and a thick creeping aromatic root; the whole plant is used.

Historical Background

Yerba mansa ('gentle herb') is a wetland plant of the American Southwest, used for centuries by Indigenous Pueblo, Navajo, and Cahuilla peoples for respiratory, urinary, and skin comfort. Spanish settlers adopted its gentle, aromatic tea, and it remains a Southwestern folk favorite.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Southwestern (Pueblo, Navajo, Cahuilla) traditions for centuries; adopted by Spanish settlers and Eclectic physicians.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, slightly peppery, aromatic, green

Tea Information

Research Summary

Yerba mansa has a long Indigenous tradition for respiratory, urinary, and skin comfort. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity, but it is not a treatment for infection, sinusitis, or any disease.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources