Latin Name: Sanguinaria canadensis
Alternate Names: Sanguinaria, Red Root, Indian Paint, Tetterwort, Red Pucoon
Family: PAPAVERACEAE
Parts Used: Rhizome, root.
Properties: Alterative, Antibacterial, Cathartic, Diuretic, Emetic, Escharotic, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Sedative, Stimulant, Tonic.
Internal Uses: Arthritis, Asthma, Bronchitis, Cancer, Catarrh, Fever, Intestinal Dryness, Laryngitis, Rheumatism, Tuberculosis, Tumors, Vaginal Dryness, Whooping Cough
Internal Applications: Tincture, capsules, cough syrups.
Bloodroot helps to relax bronchial muscles.
Topical Uses: Athlete’s Foot, Eczema, Fungal Infection, Melanoma, Nasal Polyps, Plaque, Ringworm, Sore Throat, Tooth Decay, Warts
Topical Applications: Salve for eczema, fungi, inhibition of plaque, ringworm, skin cancers and warts. Toothpaste and mouthwash for sensitive teeth, reducing plaque and tooth decay. Gargle for sore throat. Snuff for nasal polyps. Wash made with vinegar for athletes foot.
Extract of bloodroot interferes with bacterias’ ability to convert carbohydrates into a gum-eating acid. It also blocks an enzyme that destroys collagen in the gum tissue, hence its ability to reduce plaque buildup.
Energetics: Bitter, Hot, Dry.
Chemical Constituents: Isoquinoline, alkaloids (sanguinarine, berberine, whelidonine, chelerythrine).
Contraindications: Use with professional council. The fresh root is a skin irritant and somewhat caustic. Combined with vinegar it is more effective. Avoid during pregnancy, nursing and if suffering from glaucoma. Large doses can cause vomiting. Somewhat toxic if used improperly. Use only very small doses internally, as large doses can be deadly.
Comments: Native to North America, this is an early spring wildflower. It exudes an orangish-red sap when picked that was used in ceremonies and also used as body paint by Native Americans. This herb has been listed by United Plant Savers as an ‘at risk’ plant, so please avoid buying products harvested from the wild. Only use the cultivated herb.