Herbier des Anciens — Detailed RecordFR · EN
red maple
Acer rubrum
Please read before use: the information below describes traditional and informational uses — it does not replace the advice of a healthcare professional. In case of doubt, pregnancy, breastfeeding, ongoing treatment or use in children, seek advice before use.
Enhanced precautions for this plant: Do not use during pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical advice, as some traditional uses are related to women's health and are poorly documented. Fresh or improperly prepared bark may present some toxicity; only properly prepared forms should be considered. Avoid any ocular use without supervision by a healthcare professional, as the risk of irritation or contamination is real. Seek the advice of a healthcare professional before any prolonged internal use, particularly in case of ongoing medication.
Decoction — Bark
Bark decoction for external use
Dried bark is gently boiled in water for about fifteen minutes, then strained and cooled before application as a compress or skin wash. A healthcare professional or qualified herbalist should be consulted before any regular use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Decoction — Root
Root decoction
The root, cut into small pieces, is decocted for a long time over low heat then strained. This traditional preparation, poorly documented in modern literature, requires the advice of a professional before use. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Where to find it
Obtaining the plant
Red maple grows naturally in moist forests and wetland areas of eastern North America; its dried bark is sometimes found at herbalists specializing in North American plants.
Harvest season
When to harvest it
The bark is traditionally harvested in spring or fall, while roots are collected outside the frost period from sufficiently mature specimens.
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