DrFeb
Health Guide

Rubber Rabbitbrush

Rubber Rabbitbrush (*Chrysothamnus nauseosus*) is a hardy perennial shrub native to the arid western United States. While you won't find it in the produce aisle, it has a rich history in traditional Native American medicine and is currently being researched for its potent essential oils and bioactive compounds. Often referred to as 'incense sage' due to its aromatic properties, this plant is gaining attention in the supplement world for its potential anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. Think of it as a wild-crafted botanical that supports the body's natural defense systems.
Evidence BasedDietary Supplement
Rubber Rabbitbrush
VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Antioxidant Capacity (ORAC Value Comparison)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis
Antioxidant Score (µmol TE/100g)
Botanical Source →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

  • Natural Defense Support: Contains compounds that may help combat harmful bacteria and fungi.
  • Inflammation Response: Traditionally used to soothe irritation and support a healthy inflammatory response.
  • Antioxidant Power: Rich in volatile oils that help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Deep Dive

Rubber Rabbitbrush is unique because of its high concentration of essential oils, specifically those containing camphor and thujone. In laboratory settings, extracts from the plant have shown the ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. For the everyday person, this translates to a potential boost in immune resilience. It acts as a botanical modulator, helping the body maintain balance (homeostasis) when environmental stressors are high. It is not a magic cure, but a supportive tool for the immune system.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike vitamins found in common vegetables, Rubber Rabbitbrush is a specialized botanical. You are unlikely to consume it as a food. However, other plants rich in similar terpenes include:

FoodAmount% DV
SageHigh (Essential Oil)N/A
RosemaryHigh (Essential Oil)N/A
EucalyptusHigh (Essential Oil)N/A

Supplementation

Because this is a potent shrub, it is best consumed as a standardized extract in capsule form or as a highly diluted tincture.

Dosage:

  • Standardized Extract (4:1): 300–500mg daily.
  • Tincture: 1–2 ml daily.

Who Should Take It: Individuals looking for herbal immune support or those seeking natural antimicrobial properties during seasonal changes.

Top Food Sources

Rubber Rabbitbrush Extract
300-500mg (Supplement form only)
Sage (Common)
Contains similar terpenes
Rosemary
Contains similar terpenes
Thyme
Antimicrobial properties
Oregano
Antimicrobial properties

Frequently Asked Questions

Generally, no. While Native American tribes used it medicinally and for incense, it is bitter and contains potent chemicals. It is not considered a culinary food source.
The plant produces a milky sap that was historically used as a chewing gum or rubber substitute by indigenous people.
Due to the presence of thujone, it is recommended to cycle this supplement (e.g., 2 weeks on, 1 week off) rather than taking it continuously every day.
It may interact with sedatives or seizure medications due to its effect on the nervous system. Consult a doctor if you are on prescription meds.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Interactions

CRITICAL SAFETY WARNING: Rubber Rabbitbrush contains thujone, a chemical compound also found in wormwood. In high doses, thujone can be neurotoxic (toxic to the nervous system).

  1. Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: AVOID. There is not enough safety data.
  2. Seizure Disorders: AVOID. Thujone can lower the seizure threshold.
  3. Liver Health: Use with caution if you have existing liver conditions, as high concentrations of essential oils can stress the liver.

Do not attempt to brew tea from wild-harvested leaves, as the chemical concentration varies wildly. Stick to reputable commercial supplements.

Scientific References

  • [1]Journal of Ethnopharmacology: 'Antimicrobial activity of Chrysothamnus nauseosus extracts'
  • [2]USDA Plants Database: 'Botanical profile of Rubber Rabbitbrush'
  • [3]Phytotherapy Research: 'Essential oil composition and bioactivity of Asteraceae family'