Pleurisy root (Asclepias tuberosa), also known as butterfly weed, has a long history of use in North American traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American tribes and later in early American herbalism. It was commonly employed as a remedy for various respiratory ailments, including pleurisy (inflammation of the tissues that line the lungs and chest cavity), bronchitis, and sometimes tuberculosis (TB). The root was believed to act as an expectorant and to help reduce inflammation in the lungs, thereby easing symptoms such as cough and chest discomfort.

However, there is little to no scientific evidence supporting the use of pleurisy root for the treatment or support of tuberculosis specifically. Modern pharmacological studies on pleurisy root are limited, and there are no clinical trials demonstrating efficacy against Mycobacterium tuberculosis or proving its effectiveness for TB-related symptoms. Its historical use for tuberculosis appears to be based on symptomatic relief of respiratory issues rather than an actual antimicrobial effect against the causative agent of TB.

In summary, pleurisy root’s association with tuberculosis is rooted in tradition rather than scientific validation. Contemporary medical guidelines do not recommend pleurisy root for TB, and it should not be considered a substitute for standard anti-tuberculosis therapies.