Milkweed is a fascinating plant with a long history of medicinal use. While many people recognize milkweed for its role in supporting monarch butterflies, few realize that it has also been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Various species of milkweed have been valued for their healing properties, helping to treat respiratory issues, digestive problems, skin conditions, and even heart ailments. This article explores the medicinal benefits of milkweed, how it has been used historically, and how you can identify different types of milkweed.
What is Milkweed? (With Photos!)
Milkweed (Asclepias) is a group of flowering plants native to North America. It gets its name from the milky white sap that oozes out when the plant is cut or broken. There are over 100 species of milkweed, but only a few are commonly used for medicinal purposes. The plant is known for its distinctive flowers, which come in shades of pink, orange, and white. Milkweed is also famous for being the primary food source for monarch butterfly caterpillars.
Milkweed plants typically grow in open fields, prairies, and along roadsides. Their tall stems, broad leaves, and unique flower clusters make them easy to identify. Some species thrive in dry environments, while others prefer wetlands. Because of its many uses, milkweed has been a valuable plant in both ecological and medicinal contexts.
How is Milkweed Used for Medicine?
For centuries, people have used milkweed in herbal medicine to treat various ailments. Native American tribes were among the first to recognize its healing properties, and early European settlers adopted some of these remedies. The plant’s roots, leaves, and sap have been used to create teas, poultices, and tinctures.
Milkweed has been used to treat conditions such as:
- Coughs and respiratory infections
- Digestive problems
- Wound healing
- Skin irritations and rashes
- Heart conditions (in small, controlled amounts)
While some species of milkweed contain toxic compounds, certain parts of the plant can be safely prepared for medicinal use. However, it’s crucial to understand which species are safe and how to use them properly.
Milkweed Benefits: Why Do People Use It?
Milkweed has several medicinal benefits, making it a popular plant in traditional herbal medicine. Some of its key benefits include:

- Respiratory Health – Milkweed tea was traditionally used to treat coughs, colds, and bronchitis. Some Native American tribes made a decoction from milkweed roots to relieve lung congestion.
- Digestive Aid – Certain milkweed species have been used to treat digestive disorders like bloating, constipation, and stomach cramps.
- Skin Healing – The milky sap of milkweed has been applied to warts, cuts, and burns to promote healing. However, it should be used cautiously, as some species contain irritants.
- Heart Support – Some species of milkweed contain cardiac glycosides, which have effects similar to digitalis, a medication used for heart conditions. However, improper use can be dangerous.
- Pain Relief – Milkweed poultices have been used to ease joint pain, muscle aches, and swelling.
Due to its potential toxicity, milkweed should only be used medicinally under expert guidance.
Types of Milkweed Used for Medicine
Not all milkweed species are safe or beneficial for medicinal use. Below are some of the most commonly used types of milkweed in traditional medicine.
Common Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias syriaca
Uses: Common milkweed is one of the most widely recognized species. It has been used to treat lung conditions, fevers, and skin problems. The young shoots and flowers are sometimes eaten after careful preparation, but raw parts of the plant can be toxic.
Butterfly Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias tuberosa
Uses: Unlike other milkweed species, butterfly milkweed does not produce milky sap. It has been used as a remedy for respiratory infections, pneumonia, and digestive problems. It is sometimes called “pleurisy root” because of its traditional use in treating lung inflammation.
Swamp Milkweed
Scientific Name: Asclepias incarnata
Uses: Swamp milkweed grows in wet environments and has been traditionally used to treat digestive issues and heart conditions. It contains compounds that can have a mild laxative effect. While some herbalists have used swamp milkweed for medicinal purposes, it should be used with caution due to its toxic properties.
How to Identify Milkweed (With Photos!)
Identifying milkweed is essential for those interested in its medicinal uses. Here are some key characteristics to look for:
- Leaves: Most milkweed species have broad, oval-shaped leaves arranged in pairs along the stem.
- Flowers: Milkweed flowers form in clusters and come in colors such as pink, orange, or white.
- Sap: When the stem is broken, most milkweed species release a thick, white sap. However, butterfly milkweed does not produce sap.
- Pods: Milkweed produces seed pods that split open when mature, releasing fluffy seeds that float in the wind.
Photographs of milkweed species can help with identification. However, always double-check with a reliable field guide before using any plant medicinally.
Is Milkweed Safe for Everyone?
Milkweed contains natural compounds that can be toxic if consumed improperly. While some species have been used medicinally, others can cause poisoning. Here’s what you need to know about milkweed safety:
- Toxicity: Some milkweed species contain cardiac glycosides, which can be harmful in large amounts.
- Skin Irritation: The sap of some milkweed plants can cause skin irritation, especially in sensitive individuals.
- Proper Preparation: Cooking or drying milkweed can reduce its toxicity, but it should only be used medicinally by those who understand proper preparation methods.
If you are considering using milkweed for health purposes, consult with a knowledgeable herbalist or healthcare provider first.
Milkweed in Native American Medicine
Milkweed has played an important role in Native American herbal medicine for centuries. Different tribes used the plant for various ailments, often preparing it as a tea, poultice, or tonic.

How Did Native Americans Use It?
- The Cherokee used butterfly milkweed to treat lung infections and fevers.
- The Omaha and Ponca tribes used common milkweed roots for digestive issues.
- The Chippewa applied milkweed sap to remove warts and skin lesions.
Is It Still Used Today?
While modern medicine has largely replaced traditional herbal remedies, some herbalists and natural medicine practitioners still use milkweed. However, its use is less common today due to concerns about toxicity and safety.
Where to Find Milkweed in the U.S.?
Milkweed grows throughout North America, especially in prairies, meadows, and along roadsides. Some of the best places to find milkweed in the U.S. include:
- Midwest: States like Kansas, Nebraska, and Illinois have abundant milkweed.
- Northeast: Milkweed can be found in fields and gardens in states like Pennsylvania and New York.
- Southern U.S.: Butterfly milkweed thrives in Texas, Florida, and Georgia.
- Western U.S.: Certain species grow in California, Arizona, and New Mexico.
If you plan to harvest milkweed, make sure you are collecting it from an area free of pesticides and pollution.
The Bottom Line
Milkweed is more than just a plant for butterflies—it has a rich history in traditional medicine. While it offers potential health benefits, it must be used with caution due to its toxic properties. If you’re interested in using milkweed medicinally, proper identification and preparation are crucial. Always seek expert advice before trying any herbal remedy.