Yerba Santa

At a Glance

Common name

Yerba Santa

Scientific name

Eriodictyon californicum

Family

Boraginaceae

Region

North America

Plant part

Leaves

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Insufficient

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A shrub of the western American hills with narrow lance-shaped leathery leaves coated in a sticky resin, and clusters of small white bell-shaped flowers; the leaves are the part used.

Also known as: Holy Herb, Mountain Balm, Bear's Weed

Historical Background

Yerba santa ('holy herb') is a resinous-leaved shrub of California's hills, cherished by Indigenous peoples — Chumash, Cahuilla, Miwok — for respiratory and digestive comfort. Spanish missionaries adopted its name, and its sticky leaves remain a valued respiratory tea and syrup herb.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous Californian (Chumash, Cahuilla, Miwok) traditions for centuries; Spanish settlers translated its name to 'holy herb.'

Traditional Uses

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

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Resinous, earthy, slightly bitter, green

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Yerba santa has a long Indigenous tradition for respiratory and digestive comfort. Clinical evidence is insufficient; preclinical work shows antioxidant and expectorant activity, but it is not a treatment for asthma, cough, infection, or any disease.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.