False Unicorn Root, like many herbal remedies, goes by different names depending on the region and production company. Some common names for False Unicorn Root are True Unicorn Root, Devil's Bit, Blazing Star, Helonia's Root and False Unicorn. This herbal remedy has been used for centuries for natural cures for female reproductive problems, including threatened miscarriage.
How it Works
False Unicorn is a plant in the lily family that grows in the southern United States. It was a common herbal remedy in the 1700s for female complications such as morning sickness during pregnancy and menstrual cramps. Due to its ability to balance hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, some herbalists still use False Unicorn Root to prevent threatened miscarriage. Since many women miscarry due to hormonal imbalances, this herb is useful when a mother-to-be is known to have such imbalances or has had previous miscarriages.
Forms
There are three common forms of False Unicorn Root -- a tincture, a capsule form and a bulk form. Tincture is a liquid substance, usually in a bottle with a dropper. Tinctures are useful to add to teas and other liquids. The capsule form is typically clear dissolvable capsules with the herb inside, and is taken orally. The bulk herb is the dried and processed root without a capsule and can be taken orally or made into teas.
Dosage for Preventing Miscarriage
Some herbalists recommend taking False Unicorn Root for preventing miscarriage because of its healing properties and its reported ability to stop hemorrhaging. Additionally, it is thought to have anti-aborting properties. It has been used for centuries to cure many uterine-related problems and has been known to stop bleeding in pregnancy. Herbalist Dr. Eugene C. Watkins advises that pregnant women take 40 drops of False Unicorn Root tincture three times daily and 60 drops every three hours if bleeding has already started. Tea can be made by adding 1-2 tsp. of tincture into a cup of boiling water and allowing it to cool. The dosage for dried root in bulk form is 1/2 tsp., three times per day.
Safety
False Unicorn Root has not been approved by the Food and Drug Administration, meaning it has not been tested by the government for safety when consumed. Excessive doses have been shown to be lethal in animals, particularly cows. It has not been evaluated for safety in pregnant and nursing mothers. This herb should never be taken without consulting a doctor before consumption, especially in pregnancy. Never take any medication without talking to your obstetrician or primary care physician first.
