Bloodroot
Sanguinaria canadensis
PLANT NAME
Bloodroot
COMMON NAMES
Red puccoon, bloodwort, tetterwort
BOTANICAL NAME
Sanguinaria canadensis
IDENTIFICATION
A perennial woodland plant native to eastern North America. It produces a single deeply lobed leaf and a solitary white flower in early spring. The rhizome exudes a bright reddish-orange sap when cut.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Rhizome (root).
CULINARY USES
None. The plant is toxic.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used historically by Native Americans as a dye (reddish-orange) and medicinal herb for respiratory conditions, inducing vomiting, and topically for warts, ringworm, and skin tags. Used in some modern toothpastes for plaque, though controversial.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Grows in rich, moist, deciduous woodlands. Roots are harvested in autumn after the leaves have died back.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Toxic in large doses. Contains sanguinarine, which destroys tissue (escharotic) when applied topically, leading to severe scarring or disfigurement (so-called "black salves"). Internal use can be fatal. Always consult your doctor.
RELATED PLANTS
Celandine (Chelidonium majus, same family).