Wild Crafted Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)

Herbs are Sold By the Ounce, Price is Per Ounce

Bloodroot (Sanguinaria canadensis)

Family: Papaveraceae (Poppy family)
Common Names: Red Puccoon, Indian Paint, Tetterwort
Origin: Eastern North America
Parts Used: Rhizome (root)

Description and Habitat

Bloodroot is a perennial herb native to the deciduous forests of eastern North America. It typically grows in rich, moist soil under the shade of trees. The plant has distinctive, deeply lobed leaves and produces a single white flower in early spring. The rhizome contains a red sap, which gives the plant its name.

History and Folklore

Bloodroot has been used by Native American tribes for centuries, primarily as a dye and for medicinal purposes. The red sap was used as a body paint and to dye fabrics. In folk medicine, bloodroot was traditionally employed to treat respiratory issues, skin conditions, and as a remedy for warts and other growths.

Medicinal Uses and Benefits

Bloodroot is primarily known for its use in addressing skin issues and respiratory conditions. The key active compounds in bloodroot are alkaloids, particularly sanguinarine, which has been shown to possess antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative properties.

Medicinal Actions:

• Antimicrobial: Effective against a range of bacteria and fungi.
• Anti-inflammatory: Can reduce inflammation, particularly in skin conditions.
• Escharotic: Traditionally used in salves for the removal of warts and skin growths.

Uses:

• Topical Applications: Bloodroot is commonly used in external preparations for treating warts, polyps, and other skin growths.
• Oral Health: Sanguinarine is used in some commercial toothpaste and mouthwashes for its antibacterial properties to prevent gingivitis and plaque.

Cautions and Considerations

Bloodroot should be used with caution due to its potent effects. The plant is considered toxic if ingested in large amounts and can cause severe side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and damage to mucous membranes. Topical application should be done carefully, as it can cause skin irritation and even tissue damage if not properly diluted.

Scientific Studies

1. Antimicrobial Properties: A study published in Phytotherapy Research explored the antimicrobial properties of sanguinarine, demonstrating its effectiveness against various pathogens, including those responsible for dental plaque and gingivitis .
2. Skin Growths: Research in Dermatologic Therapy highlights the use of bloodroot in escharotic preparations, noting its effectiveness in removing benign skin lesions but emphasizing the need for caution due to potential side effects .
3. Anti-inflammatory Effects: A study in Journal of Ethnopharmacology discusses the anti-inflammatory properties of bloodroot, particularly in relation to its traditional use in treating skin conditions.