Bayberry is an astringent, diaphoretic, antipyretic, and stimulant agent. It has been used to treat high fever, chronic sinusitis, gastric troubles, diarrhea, sore throat, and respiratory problems. Thanks to its stimulant and astringent properties, it is a home remedy for diarrhea. The intake of bayberry helps to release nasal mucus during sinusitis and helps relieve gastric problem, sore throat, and numerous other infections. In China, it is used as an astringent and pain reliever; while Native American peoples use bayberry for dysentery, diarrhea, fevers, gynecological conditions, bleeding in the uterus, and as a toothache remedy.

Bayberry has been used in folk medicine in Asian, Native American, European, and African cultures. The early American colonists also used bayberry fruit to make candles, soaps and cosmetics.

Some people take bayberry for head colds, painful and swollen intestines (colitis), diarrhea, and nausea. In large amounts, bayberry is used to cause vomiting. Some people also use it to stimulate the circulatory system. Bayberry is sometimes used as a gargle for sore throat, as a douche for vaginal discharge, and as an ointment for skin ulcers and wounds.