Cenizo

Cenizo (Leucophyllum frutescens), also known as purple sage (even though it is not related to true sage (the Salvia genus) or sagebrush (members of the Artemisia genus), is a shrub with ash green leaves, and flowers in different shades of purple. It is widely cultivated as an ornamental and grows wild in the southwestern U.S. (Especially Texas) and northern Mexico. Because it is believed to flower before a rainstorm, it is also called the barometer bush. This ability to predict rain may have to do with its ability to perceive changes in humidity. It is very drought-hardy and can tolerate poor and alkaline soils.  Although it is ubiquitous in gardens of the Southwest, it is less known as an herbal medicine, even though its widespread use as a cold remedy and mild sedative goes back centuries. The small, silvery-blue-green leaves can be used as a tea, which is said to help with congestion, cough, fever, and chills of the common cold. I can say from experience that it has very little taste, and for colds, it is usually sweetened with honey. There have been a few studies that suggest cenizo may be hepatoprotective, but this has not been verified in humans and continues to be studied. I have also not heard of any side effects when it is consumed as a tea in reasonable quantities, but as always, people in special risk groups should consult a medical professional with any questions or concerns before consuming it.