Bloodroot Alternative

The dainty woodland wildflower known as bloodroot boasts a long tradition in Native American healing. Named for its dark red roots, Sanguinaria canadensis is still prized by some herbalists. The roots' primary compound, sanguinarine, may help reduce swelling and provide disinfectant protection. If you're concerned about the warnings associated with bloodroot, consider using herbs with similar properties. Always consult your doctor before attempting any herbal self-treatment.

History

Some Native American nations, especially those in the eastern parts of the country, employed bloodroot for both external and internal problems, according to Drugs.com. Complaints treated with bloodroot included skin irritations and wounds, as well as coughs and colds. Practitioners also prescribed bloodroot for dental problems. The plant appears to have disinfectant qualities, explaining its use in treating dental and skin problems. Its use as an expectorant for coughs or emetic for stomach distress likely stems from its ability to promote a productive cough in lower doses, and vomiting at higher doses.

Concerns

There may be risks associated with using bloodroot as an herbal cure, warns Drugs.com. It may cause tissue damage when applied to skin. Researchers also point to possible links between oral leukoplakia and mouth and gum contact with bloodroot. Clinical trials involving possible problems with bloodroot as an oral or intravenous medication are ongoing. While no definitive research about bloodroot as an internal or external medication exists, "caution is warranted," notes Drugs.com.

Dental Alternatives

The University of Maryland Medical Center lists chamomile and yarrow tea as possible treatments for gum disease and mouth sores. Both have anti-inflammatory properties. The cooled infusions are considered safe enough to drink or use as mouth rinses. According to herbalist Lesley Bremness, other herbal options for dental issues include clove oil for pain and sage and peppermint for general cleaning and plaque removal.

Skin Care

To treat the kind of skin infections for which bloodroot is traditionally employed, UMMC suggests topical applications of tea tree oil, which kills bacteria and fungus. Cooled chamomile or yarrow tea also effectively treat skin disorders such as cellulitis. UMMC recommends combining the antiseptic powers of slippery elm powder with the bacteria-killing and anti-inflammatory properties of goldenseal root extract by making a paste from the two substances and applying directly to your skin. For oral treatment, echinacea, gota kola, thyme and pycnogenol extract are all herbal supplements available in capsule form, and may help your body fight skin infections.

Coughs

To loosen up phlegm and ease coughing, consider a "Vapo-rub" from the drugstore. Alternatively, prepare Bremness' massage oil formula by combining 10 drops each eucalyptus and niaouli essential oils with 5 drops each hyssop and sandalwood drops. Add these essential oils to 2 oz. olive, jojoba or sweet almond oil. Thicken with a tbsp. of melted beeswax, if desired. Bremness also suggests making herbal teas from dried coltsfoot leaves or the roots of the horehound or elecampane plant.