Medicinal Plants : Trillium pendulum

Name

Birthroot

Biological Name

Trillium pendulum

Other Names

Bethroot, coughroot, ground lily, Indian balm, Indian shamrock, jew's-harp plant, lamb's quarter, milk ipecac, nodding wakerobin, pariswort, rattlesnake root, snakebite, three-leaved nightshade, trillium, wakerobin, birthroot

Parts Used

rootstock

Remedies For

Antiseptic, astringent, diaphoretic, emmenagogue, expectorant, tonic.

Birthroot is said to be used for coughs, bronchial problems, hemorrhage from the lungs, pulmonary consumption, and, especially when boiled in milk, for diarrhea. It is also used, both internally and externally, for female problems. For insect bites and stings, a poultice or a salve is used. American Indians used it as an aid in childbirth.

Description

Birthroot is a perennial plant found in rich soils and shady woods of the central and western states of the U.S. Growing to a height of 10 to 15 inches, the simple stem arises from an oblong, tuberous rootstock and bears, only at the very top, a whorl of three round-ovate, acuminate leaves. Single yellow-white to reddish-white flowers appear in May and June above the leaves.

Dosage

Decoction: Use 1 tsp. root with 1 cup water (or milk). Drink either hot or cold just before going to bed. Take 1 to 2 cups a day.

Tincture Take 1/4 to 1/2 tsp. at a time.

Safety

No information available.