Astringent, tonic, alterative, cholagogue, diuretic, sialagogue, emetic (large doses), haemost styptic, vulnerary, errhine, sternutatory, discutient. Wax: mildly astringent, somewhat narcotic. Leaves: astringent, aromatic.

Bayberry and lobelia are considered by many as the most useful herbs in botanic medicine. Bayberry forms the base for the famous Composition Powder, which comes as near to being a cure-all as anything we have. It is a powerful stimulant, astringent and tonic, influencing the alimentary tract, toning and promoting glandular activity, all the while thoroughly cleansing and restoring the mucus secretions to normal function. It is an effective deobstruent, and it is a useful cleansing tonic for the liver. Its stimulant properties promptly arouse the whole circulatory system, with a persisting influence upon the arterial and capillary circulation and a toning action to the tissues. Its astringent action is very potent, yet it does not dry the mucous membranes as the inorganic chemical agents such as alum do. Bayberry is an excellent tonic for the uterus (especially during pregnancy), and is a valuable agent for arresting hemorrhage of the uterus, bowels or lungs. When used with cayenne, it is very effective in reviving the heat in the body and in inducing diaphoresis.