Bloodroot, an herb whose rhizome, or plant stem, reveals a bright red center when cut, is widely available in the United States in tincture, paste, tablet and cream form. Although alternative health practitioners hail bloodroot's innate internal and external healing abilities, your use of the herb in any form can initiate harmful side effects. Naturopathic medicine promotes a holistic approach to health with minimal use of surgeries and drugs. Please make sure to consult your physician before attempting naturopathic remedies at home.
Identification
Bloodroot, also called Sanguinaria canadensis, Indian paint and red puccoon, is a perennial herb indigenous to Canada and the eastern United States. A member of the poppy family, bloodroot grows between 6 and 8 inches tall and produces a solitary white flower within a gray-green leaf. Herbalists and other alternative health professionals use bloodroot for medicinal purposes.
History
Eastern Native American tribes used bloodroot to treat ulcers, skin conditions and to purify the blood. The tribes also poured bloodroot juice over a maple sugar lump and sucked on the lump to soothe sore throats and coughs. In the 19th century, bloodroot entered the medicinal world in topical ointments for warts, polyps and skin cancers. Bloodroot was also a prominent ingredient in toothpaste and mouthwash purported to prevent plaque and gum disease during the 1980s. However, the use of bloodroot in oral care products was discontinued because of concerns that it may be toxic in this form, says Drugs.com. Native Americans also used bloodroot's red juice as face paint for battles and inner-tribe rituals and as a clothing dye.
Uses
Alternative health practitioners use bloodroot to treat bronchial and throat infections, warts and fungal skin infections. Bloodroot proponents also use the herb to treat migraine headaches, dental plaque, ringworm and heart conditions, according to the North Carolina Consortium on Natural Medicines. Bloodroot is even believed to repel insects.
Active Components
Bloodroot contains sanguinarine, an element with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antigingivitic or antigum-inflaming properties. Sanguinarine is also a natural antiseptic, expectorant, diuretic and respiratory stimulant. Bloodroot also contains berberine, a substance that may fight cancer and brain tumors, notes AltNature.com.
Considerations
Bloodroot may cause side effects such as vertigo, or severe dizziness; edema, or fluid retention; dizziness; nausea and vomiting. Do not take bloodroot if you are pregnant, have glaucoma or gastrointestinal inflammation. Also, do not fall victim to online scams that promote bloodroot-containing "magic potions" for cancer, warns the American Cancer Society (ACS). The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved these creams, tablets, teas or tinctures for the prevention or treatment of cancer, says the ACS.
Member Comments