Description
Like other Agave family plants, Beargrass’s dense, leafy mass is one of its most notable characteristics. This perennial has numerous, long, narrow leaves with minutely serrated margins. Dense thickets of the plant are possible due to underground stem growth and the development of numerous above ground leaf rosettes. Given ample size, nutrients, and water Beargrass flowers in the spring sending 1 or more 3-6 foot long stalks into the air. The open inflorescence is approximately 3 feet long. The compartmentalized seed capsules contain up to 6 small light brown seeds.
Distribution
From several isolated patches in Texas, west of the Pecos River, Beargrass spreads west through central New Mexico along the Rio Grande and Gila River Drainages. Through Arizona, Beargrass’s range cuts a diagonal swath from the Colorado River area, below the Mogollon Rim to Pima and Cochise Counties. The plant is found on rocky slopes and hillsides, in canyons and along drainages. From 3,000-6,000 feet Beargrass inhabits several diverging vegetation zones making it a common plant in varying areas.
Chemistry
Saponins: nolinospiroside, ruscogenin, and doubtlessly others
Medicinal Uses
Through a comparable saponin content, Beargrass’ medicinal effect is similar to Butchers broom’s (Ruscus aculeatus). Initially cued to the plant by Michael Moore, I have observed several cases where venous laxity in the leg and trunk area has improved. Applying the oil or salve tends to improve varicosities, spider veins, associated leg heaviness, and edema. The effects on vasculature of these Butchers broom-Beargrass saponins are well documented. Apparently, they have an adrenergic-like effect on veins and venules of the lower body, subsequently providing a tightening effect. There is reason to believe that taken internally Beargrass diminishes arthritic joint pain, similarly to other Agave family plants.
Indications
Venous stasis/varicosities/spider veins (internal and external)
Leg heaviness, fatigue, and fluid retention (internal and external)
Rheumatoid arthritis
Collection
Collect Beargrass’s new leaves throughout the spring and summer. The newer leaves originate from the center of the plant and tend to rise vertically from this point. These are long, flexible, and sharp-edged. Paper-type cuts are easily received when harvesting.
Preparations
Dry the long leaves intact then cut them into 1-½ inch pieces for storage.
Dosage
Oil/salve: as needed
Leaf decoction: 2-4 ounces 3 times daily
‘00’ capsules: 2-3, 3 times daily
Cautions
Do not use during pregnancy.
Other Uses
The young, immature, 1-2 foot high flower stalks can be clipped at their bases, peeled and eaten either cooked or raw. Being slightly bitter and soapy, they are not the best edible fare, but are at least interesting.