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Bethroot
LILIACEAE
aka: Bath root, Birthroot, Coughroot, Ground lily, Indian balm, Indian shamrock, Jew's harp plant, Lamb's quarters, Milk ipecac, Nodding ground lily, Nodding wake robin, Pariswort, Rattlesnake root, Snakebite, Squaw flower, Three-leaved nightshade, Trillium, Wake robin
(Trillium erectum) and (Trillium pendulum) (Both have been used interchangeably)
The chemical composition of T. erectum is not well documented. The plant is reported to contain tannic acids, oxalates, a cardiotonic glycoside similar to convallamarin, and a saponin called trillarin (a diglycoside of diosgenin). Diosgenin may be chemically converted to pregnenolone and progesterone.A small perennial wildflower of hardwood and mixed forests. The plant is usually under 12 inches high, has 3 rounded green or green and purple mottled leaves, with one large star-like 3-petaled purple or white flower.
Actions
Part Used - Rhizome Rootstock
Herb Forms Bulk herb for tea, tincture.
Affects Blood, Endocrine system, Urinary system
Cautions Avoid during pregnancy. The rhizome is acrid and can cause irritation of the throat, stomach, and intestines in sensitive individuals, or when used excessively.
Beth root is reported to have antiseptic, astringent, expectorant, local irritant, and tonic properties, probably because of its tannic acid content. The plant is also reported to act as a uterine stimulant, which may be attributed to the diosgenin component. Some components of other Trillium species have antifungal properties .
All the seventeen species of the genus are North American plants, distinguished by their possession of three green, persistent sepals and three larger withering petals, of varying color. Trillium erectum or T. pendulum, perennial, smooth herb, has an erect stem of from 10 to 15 inches in height, bearing three leaves, broad, almost rhomboid, and drooping white flowers, terminal and solitary. Grows in the rich soil of damp and shady woodlands, flowering in May and June.
USES
MEDICINAL:
Sweet-sour, astringent, warming, expectorant, diaphoretic, alterative, pectoral, controls bleeding (nose, mouth, stomach, bowels, and bladder); of benefit to the female reproductive system (uterine tonic).
Was used internally for uterine hemorrhage, blood in the urine (combined with Bidens tripartita), and for blood from the lungs. Was used for excessive blood loss during and between menses (combined with Cranesbill or Periwinkle) and blood loss associated with menopause.
A tea of equal parts of Bugleweed(Lycopus virginicus) and birthroot was once used for diabetes
Was used externally for vaginal discharge (douche), ulcers (combined with Ulnus rubra and/or Lobelia inflata) varicose ulcers, skin problems, insect bites and stings. Also used in ointment form for ulcers and wounds.
Native Americans preferred the white flowered variety and used it for treating sore nipples, controlling post partum hemorrhage, vaginal discharge and excessive menstruation (was often combined with Vinca major or Geramium maculatum). Was also used to promote the onset of labor in an overdue pregnancy.
Was once used as a poultice for skin diseases; a handful of leaves was boiled in lard and applied to ulcers and tumors.
Maude Grieve (A Modern Herbal) accounts T. erectum and related species useful in fevers and chronic affections of the air passages due to action of checking secretions of the mucous membranes.
T. pendulum, specifically, was used during the last month of pregnancy in place of raspberry leaf to strengthen and vitalize the uterus and pelvic area. Acts as a mild diuretic and astringent (used to reduce excessive menstrual bleeding). Also used by Native Americans to prevent miscarriage and ease childbirth.
J. Kloss in Back to Eden recommended it for coughs, bronchial problems, pulmonary consumption, hemorrhage from lungs, excessive menstruation, leucorrhea, prolapsed uterus, diarrhea (boiled in milk) and dysentary.
Was often used as part of a compound formula in solution for enemas and douches; was combined with equal part Cranesbill and made into an infusion or decoction (wine glass full dose taken 4 to 5 times daily) for prolapsed uterus and leucorrhea.
Poultice of the root was used for insect stings.
The Potawatomi of North America used an infusion of the root of T. grandiflorum for sore nipples.
The Menominees grated the root for a poultice to use on swollen eyes; also grated, steeped and drunk as a tea for cramps and irregular menses. DOSE:
The official description of the rhizome is 'oblique, globular, oblong or obconical, truncate below., terminated by a small bud surrounded by a sheath of scarious leaf bases annulated by leaf scars and fissured by stem scars. It is from 0.6 to 5 cm. in length, and from 0.6 to 3.5 cm. in width, more or less compressed laterally, rootlet scars in several concentrie rows on the underside in the upper portions. Externally yellowish to reddish brown; internally of a pale yellow; fracture somewhat uneven with a more or less spongy appearance. Odor distinct; taste bitter and acrid, with a sensation of warmth in the throat, and when chewed causing an increased flow of saliva. Trillium yields not more than 5 per cent. of ash.'
The drug is one of those prepared by the Shakers.
---Constituents---There have been found in it volatile and fixed oils, tannic acid, saponin, a glucoside resembling convallamarin, an acid crystalline principle colored brown tinged with purple by sulphuric acid, and light green with sulphuric acid and potassium dichromate, gum, resin, and much starch.
The fluid extract is an ingredient in Compound Elixir of Viburnum Opulus.
Professor E. S. Wayne isolated the active principle, calling it Trilline, but the preparation sold under that name has no medicinal value, while the Trilline of Professor Wayne has not been used.
---Medicinal Action and Uses---Is said to have been in use among the aborigines and early settlers of North America. It is antiseptic, astringent and tonic expectorant, being used principally in haemorrhages, to promote parturition, and externally, usually in the form of a poultice, as a local irritant in skin diseases, or to restrain gangrene.
The leaves, boiled in lard, are sometimes applied to ulcers and tumours.
The roots may be boiled in milk, when they are helpful in diarrhea and dysentery.
---Dosages---Of powdered root, a drachm three times a day. Of fluid extract, 30 minims, as astringent and tonic expectorant. Trilline, 2 to 4 grains.
---Other Species---Most of the genus Trillium have medicinal properties, especially T. erythrocarpum, T. grandiflorum, T. sessile, and T. nivale.
The acrid species are useful in fevers and chronic affections of the air-passages. Merely smelling the freshly-exposed surface of the red Beth roots will check bleeding from the nose.
Reported Uses
Trillium Complex is used in Australia to treat menorrhagia. The dried rhizome is used by some herbalists as a uterine stimulant. Beth root is a popular cure for bleeding, skin irritations, and snakebite. It has been used as an ant diarrheal, an astringent to reduce topical irritation, and a tonic expectorant.
Beth root is used for vaginal infections, cramping, menorrhagia, and diarrhea. It is said to facilitate childbirth and regulate the menses. The astringent properties of beth root have made it useful for bleeding from the stomach or lungs and for excessive menstruation. Externally it is useful for wounds, sores, and varicose veins and as a douche for leucorrhea. Beth Root has a taste of PUNGENT, BITTER and a temperature of WARM.
Treating Facilitating Labor with Beth Root
Treating Leucorrhea with Beth Root
Beth Root Proper Dose
Type Dossage
Beth Root Decoction 1/4-1/2 cup 2-3 x daily
Beth Root Tincture 1 dropperful 2-3 x daily
Beth Root for a Healthy Birth
Beth root, also known as birthroot, has been used by Native American for many years. It’s actually been used historically for many health issues. But its main use has been for women’s health.
Previous uses of Beth root include using poultices for ulcers, tumors, and other skin disorders. It was also used to treat problems with the digestive system such as diarrhea and dysentery. In addition, Beth root was used to treat problems with nosebleeds and other hemorrhages.
Beth root was also used to treat breathing problems resulting from chronic respiratory infections. It was also applied to snakebites and insect bites to help treat the skin. Gangrene was also once treated by Beth root because it was thought to bring blood to the surface and restore circulation.
Beth root is known to help control bleeding. As a result, it’s been used to induce childbirth and to help move labor along. It’s also been used to treat menstrual problems such as irregular and heavy bleeding.
Modern research has found that Beth root actually mimics hormones in the body. That is probably why it works to induce labor and regulate menstrual cycles. In fact, while Beth root isn’t used for quite as many ailments as it once was, it is used still for childbirth and other female problems.
If you’re suffering from an irregular menstrual cycle or excessive bleeding as a result of a fibroid tumor, Beth root may be the herb that will help you the most. You may find that you have fewer problems with irregular hormonal problems and bleeding by adding this to your routine.
Beth root is usually taken as an infusion or a powder. The infusion can be taken once a day. The powder can be taken in a capsule form or sprinkled over food. Another herb, cohosh, is also used to induce labor. However, many people believe that Beth root is a safer alternative.
Commentary
Beth root has been used as a folk remedy to promote parturition and control postpartum bleeding as well as to treat skin irritation, snakebites, and many other problems, but there is little clinical or scientific evidence to support these claims. The chemistry and dosage range of beth root have been poorly documented. Controlled animal and human studies are needed before beth root or its constituents can be considered medically useful.
Dosage
Various dosages have been used, including 1 tbsp of powder in 1 pt of boiling water taken "freely in wineglassful doses;' 1 dram of powdered root P.O. , or 30 minims of liquid extract as an astringent or a tonic expectorant. t.i.d.
TRADITIONAL DOSAGES FOR PROFESSIONAL NOTE ONLY
!All others buy commercial preparations and follow directions carefully!
EQUIVALENT = 1 drachm of powdered root, 3 times daily, OR, 30 grains, OR, 0.5 to 2 grams
INFUSION = 1 tbsp dry, powdered root to 2 cups of boiling water, steeped 15 minutes; 1/2 cup taken 3 times daily.
DECOCTION = 1 tsp powdered root to 1 cup water (or milk for diarrhea) taken hot or cold before bed
FLUID EXTRACT = 30 minims
TINCTURE = 1/4 tsp daily in 1 cup water
COUGHS = 10 to 20 grains of powdered root in a little water 3 times daily
ANTISEPTIC POULTICE = Equal parts Bethroot and Slippery Elm combined; poultice applied to open wounds. Effect can be boosted with a pinch of powdered Lobelia seed in the mixture.
HOMEOPATHIC:
Used for bloody cough, catarrh of the bladder, climacteric, diabetes, bleeding fibroma, dribbling of urine after labor, hemorrhage associated with childbirth (threatened abortion), menorrhagia, metrohagia, writers cramp.
OTHER:
An infusion of the root was taken by the Menominees to cleanse any supposed defilement caused by engaging in sexual intercourse during menses.
Adverse Reactions
CV: potential cardiotoxicity (convallamarin -like glycoside).
GI: GI irritation, vomiting (oxalates and saponins).
Interactions
Anti arrhythmic (such as digitalis): May increase or antagonize effects of some anti arrhythmic. Avoid administration with Beth root.
Contraindications And Precautions
Avoid using beth root in pregnant patients because of reported uterine stimulant properties.
Special considerations
Monitor for GI irritation and nausea. Treat symptomatically if these effects occur and consider discontinuation of beth root.
Caution the patient taking drugs for a cardiac condition to avoid use of beth root because of its potential to influence cardiac function.
Advise women to avoid using beth root during pregnancy.
Magic Herb Root
SOUTHERN JOHN ROOT (DIXIE JOHN, BETH ROOT)
In Hoodoo Folk Magic, Spell-Craft, and Occultism
DIXIE JOHN ROOT (Southern John) is also called TRILLIUM or BETH ROOT. It is used for luck, love, sex, and family. Carry a whole root for Luck. To draw Love, make a tea from it and drink it nightly while burning Love Me Incense with the root “hairs.” For Marriage, carry Southern John in a red bag with Violet leaves, Lodestone, and Magnetic Sand, dressed with Hoyt’s Cologne and Stay With Me Oil. For Good Sex, tie DIXIE John in a muslin bag and launder it with your bed-clothes. To Break Up an Affair troubling your marriage, mix the root with the Hair or Clothes of you and your spouse, burn them to ashes, and use the ashes to mark the corners and center of your bedroom and bed, praying the 91st Psalm for the intruder to go away. We make no claims for DIXIE or Southern JohN, and sell it as a Curio only.
Beth Root Trillium erectum
Ruled by Saturn, who is ever mindful of limits, this magick herb is concerned with borders. It is used in witchcraft to protect one's borders by turning back negative magick or to strengthen and protect the family. The fresh root was also cooked and eaten as an aphrodisiac by Native people, so it clearly has a strong Venus aspect and is important in love magick. A perennial of the woods, Beth root is also known as Birth root because Native Americans used it to aid in birth. It acts on the female reproductive system and contains a precursor of female sex hormones; in the past, it was used to stop excessive uterine bleeding. This herb is also known as Lamb's Quarters, Wake-Robin, Indian Balm, Indian Shamrock, and Ground Lil
CAUTION!!
Must be used DRY. Fresh root and leaves possibly toxic CONTAINS: Yields no more than 5% ash, also volatile and fixed oils, tannic acid, steroidal saponins (diosgenin - related to human sex hormones and cortisone), a glucoside (similar to convallamarin), steroidal glycosides, gum, resin, starch. Rootstock of T. erectum exhibits hormone-like activity.A North American perennial member of the Lily family with 3 broad, rhombic leaves, 3 green sepals, an erect stem up to 15 inches and a single, 3-petaled flower, varying from white to maroon, petals ovate and acute, styles erect, stigmatas recurved; fruit a pink or red, 3 or 6 angled berry. It is found growing in damp, shady woods. The rhizome(an oblong tuberous root) has a distinct odor with a faint scent of turpentine about it, and an odd taste that is sweetish and astringent when first chewed, but quickly becomes bitter and acid, causing salivation.
T. erectum was first mentioned by Constantine Rafinesque in his Medical Flora (1828-30; 2 vols) and is native to the northeastern to eastern central portions of North America. It was listed in the NF from 1916-1947. Was grown by the Shakers as a medicinal. The fluid extract was an ingredient of the Compound Elixir of Viburnum Opulus.
Cultivation Info
T. pendulum is found growing in rich soils and shady woods from the central to the western United States.
PROPAGATION: By seed sown in spring (must be stratified and flowers take 3 to 4 years to appear; first year growth consists of a single leaf), or by division during dormancy.
NEEDS: Grown as an ornamental in moist, well-draining, neutral to slightly acid, humusy soil in part shade. Hardy to -31 degrees F. Susceptible to slug damage.
HARVEST: Rhizomes are dug after the leaves have died back in late summer, then dried for use in liquid extracts, decoctions and tinctures.
FLOWERS: May and June. Unpleasant odor and pollinated by flies.
PART USED: Rhizome
SOLVENT: Diluted alcohol, water.
RELATED SPECIES:
T. kamtschaticum: Contains steroidal saponins which have hormonal effects; used gynecologically.
T. tschonoskii: Same as T. kamtschaticum
T. erectum var album: White flowering variation.
Natural Herbal Help For Pets
- Introduction and disclaimers
The information contained on these pages has been obtained from a number of different sources.
As with all materials and information, use common sense. I have only collected this information. I claim no
responsibility for anything that happens because of information used from this collected information.
I cannot be held responsible for any actions or outcome of use of these folk remedies, taken by persons using this inforation as reference. Please be aware that some of these remedies may be toxic or cause an allergic reaction if taken in incorrect doses/internally. In all cases before resorting to use of the herbs listed, please consult a medical or holistic practioner.
- Legal Stuff:
Information provided is not designed to diagnose, prescribe, or treat any illness, or injury and is provided for informational purposes only. Always consult a medical doctor, or other alternative medical practitioner when suffering from any disease, illness, or injury, or before attempting a traditional or folk remedy. Keep all products away from children. As with any natural product, they can be toxic if misused.
photo: BethRoot
Herb Index A to Z
AKA: BIRTHROOT, COUGHROOT, GROUND LILY, INDIAN BALM, INDIAN SHAMROCK, PLANT, PURPLE TRILLIUM, SNAKEBITE, SQUAW ROOT, TRILLIUM PENDULUM, WAKE-ROBIN
AKA: Vitex, Monk's Pepper and Wild Pepper
AKA: Knitbone, common comfrey, symphytum, blackwort, healing herb and bruisewort
Elder -AKA: American Elder , Sweet Elder and Common Elder
AKA: Virgaurea, Herba Solidaginus
AKA: Gravelweed, Joe-Pye Weed, Queen of the Meadow, purple boneset, trumpet weed, kidney root
AKA: Alehoof, Cat’s foot, Creeping Charlie, Gill-over-the-ground, Gillrun, Hay maids, hedge maids
AKA: Guaiac, Lignum vitae, pockwood
Gotu kola
AKA: Haw, May Blossom, Maybush, May Tree, Quick-set, Shan-cha
AKA: Marrubium, Hoarhound, White Horehound
AKA White Mustard, Yellow Mustard, Black Mustard, Kedlock
AKA: Balsamodendron
AKA: Milkwort, Rattlesnake Root, Seneca Snakeroot, Snake Root