A small bundle of dried leaves is lit then gently extinguished to retain only the smoke, which is directed toward the respiratory passages or into a room to be purified. Good ventilation is recommended during and after the practice. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Fresh leaves are crushed or lightly bruised then applied directly to the affected skin area, held in place with a clean cloth. Reserved for occasional external use. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
A few dried leaves are briefly infused in hot water, to be consumed in small quantities and occasionally. Professional advice is recommended before any regular internal use, as this plant is not a common herbal tea in Europe. Dosage to be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
It is found wild on the hillsides and chaparral of California; in Europe, it remains rare and is mainly found at herbalists specializing in North American plants or in certain aromatic plant gardens.
Leaves are traditionally harvested in late spring and summer, when the foliage is most aromatic, preferably in dry weather.