Herbs, Plants, Trees and Roots | July, 2011

You entered Coughroot, the more common name is...

A decoction made from the root of Birthroot is used to reduce bronchial conditions, bloody coughs, common coughs, lung weakness, and diarrhea (particularly when consumed with milk). A poultice is made from the root, leaves and flowers to apply topically to treat insect bites. A tincture is used to treat female reproductive system conditions.  In the earlier times, a tincture made from the root of ths plant was used to help a woman in labor. Which is probably how it got many of its names.

Birthroot

SCIENTIFIC NAME:
(Trillium pendulum, Trillium erectum)


Natïve to east and northeast North America this perennial blooms in the spring. The stem grows 10 to 15 inches tall with leaves at the top of the stem. The three petal flower grows on the top of the stem in the spring and early summer in colors ranging from pale yellow to deep red. The root is bulbous and used to treat many ailments.



Common Names:

American Ground Lily, Bethroot, Coughroot, Ground Lily, Indian Balm, Indian Shamrock, Jew’s-Harp Plant, Lamb’s Quarter,  Midwife Root, Milk Ipecac, Nodding Wakerobin, Red Trillium, Trillium, Wake-Robin


Birthroot

Uses:

A decoction made from the root of Birthroot is used to reduce bronchial conditions, bloody coughs, common coughs, lung weakness, and diarrhea (particularly when consumed with milk). A poultice is made from the root, leaves and flowers to apply topically to treat insect bites. A tincture is used to treat female reproductive system conditions. In the earlier times, a tincture made from the root of ths plant was used to help a woman in labor. Which is probably how it got many of its names.



Applications:

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.

Poultice:
Use roots, leaves and flowers to make poultice and apply to area.


Warnings:

With any herb, there is the risk of an allergic reaction. Small children and pregnant women should use additional caution when considering the use of herbal remedies.