MEDICINAL USES:
Clematis is diaphoretic, diuretic and stimulant. It constricts the blood vessels of the brain lining, but dilates the venous system, and works to soothe headaches, especially migraines, and ease frazzled nerves. Reports on the medicinal properties of the two species are similar as to use, but vary quite a bit on the strength, toxicity and parts used. Some recommend using all of the aerial parts, though the First Nations used only the flowers. White and Blue Clematis are similar in application. Although some herbalists claim that the Blue is more powerful, First Nations Peoples in BC considered White the stronger. Perhaps this is due to differences in the plant parts used. Advocates for the blue use the whole plant, while First Nations used only the flowers. My own experience with them is too limited to allow me to comment: I have not seen it used or used it as a diuretic and its efficacy as an analgesic and sedative seems to be variable. While not effective in all cases, it can often bring relief from the worst cases, especially if taken early in the episode. Clematis is a member of the Buttercup family and the fresh juice has the acrid quality that is a trademark of this family. Although the fresh juice may cause some people to blister, the plant is used as a counterirritant for itching and skin irritations, and as a topical analgesic. First Nations Peoples more often utilized the plant as a smudge or a smoke for internal applications, though they also used the tea. The leaves seem to contain more of the acrid juice than the flowers, so for internal application, the flowers only may be the best and safest use. Dosage is one tablespoon of herb or 10 – 40 drops of the tincture.
CAUTION: Like other members of the Buttercup family, Clematis extract has a rather acrid nature that can burn sensitive skin or mucus membranes. Personally, I have found that the undiluted tincture gives a burning sensation in the mouth, but no blistering. All the same, the tincture is best diluted with water when taken.
OTHER USES: First Nations Peoples used the bark of White Clematis to weave into baskets, bags, mats and other such items. The seed floss makes excellent tinder for starting fires; it also works well as insulation, packing or padding, for dressings, diapers etc. The roots can be used to make a shampoo.