Latin name: Sanguinaria canadensis
Other names: bloodwort, coon root, Indian paint, Indian plant, loodroot, paucon, pauson, red paint root, red paint puccoon, red puccoon root, red root, saguinaria, tetterwort
What is Bloodroot?
Bloodroot is a plant native to Eastern North America and noted for its large, delicate white flowers. It is named for its roots, which are bright red and contains a red juice when fresh. It has a history of being used by the Native Americans in herbal remedies, and also as a reddish-orange dye for body paint and fabric coloring.
What are the health benefits of Bloodroot?
Traditionally used by Native Americans for treating fevers, sore throats, joint pain, skin cancers, and to induce vomiting, bloodroot has emerged in contemporary herbalism with a reputation for internally treating respiratory conditions and externally treating skin issues. Bloodroot is used as an expectorant to promote coughing and the clearing of mucus from the respiratory tract. Bloodroot can be helpful for gum health; a substance found in bloodroot called sanguinarine is used in toothpastes as a plaque inhibitor Additionally, bloodroot is used to treat benign skin tumors and warts.
Are there any precautions for taking Bloodroot?
Bloodroot, when taken in large doses, is particularly toxic. Taking excessive doses of bloodroot can cause nausea and vomiting, as well as tunnel vision and foot pain. Excessive doses may depress the central nervous system and prove fatal, and as such it is crucial to use only under the guidance of a qualified practitioner.
Where can I find Bloodroot?
Bloodroot can be found online, in herbal specialty stores, and in the offices of certain holistic medical practitioners.
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