Trillium
Trillium erectum (and other Trillium spp.)
PLANT NAME
Trillium
COMMON NAMES
Beth Root, Birthroot, Wake Robin, Stinking Benjamin.
BOTANICAL NAME
Trillium erectum (and other Trillium spp.)
IDENTIFICATION
A woodland perennial recognizable by its arrangement of leaves and flower parts in threes. Trillium erectum has three broad leaves whorled at the top of the stem and a single dark red or purplish flower with three petals that often emits a fetid odor.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Rhizome and roots.
CULINARY USES
Not used as a food.
TRADITIONAL USES
As the name "Birthroot" implies, it was heavily relied upon by Native Americans to facilitate childbirth, stop postpartum hemorrhage, and treat menstrual disorders. Also used as an astringent for coughing and diarrhea.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Native to rich, moist, deciduous woodlands. The plant grows very slowly from seed. It is widely considered at-risk or endangered in the wild due to habitat destruction and overharvesting, so wildcrafting is strongly discouraged.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Due to its action on the uterus, it should absolutely not be used during pregnancy except under expert supervision during labor. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
White Trillium (Trillium grandiflorum), Painted Trillium (Trillium undulatum).