#bethroot

Bethroot (Trillium erectum)

Family: Liliaceae (Lily)

Common names: Red trillium, birthroot, wake-robin

Related species: Trillium spp.

Location: Eastern North America, Quebec to Ontario and Michigan, south to Tennessee

One of the most easily identified early spring flowers. All floral parts grow in threes (hence “Trillium”)- three sepals surround three petals enclose two whorls of three stamens, three stigmas, and three seeds.

The solitary flowers blooms between April and June and can vary from a rich wine red to pale pink and sometimes white. 

Key Actions: Astringent, antiseptic, uterine tonic, expectorant

Parts used: Root, sometimes leaf

Traditional uses: Used by Native Americans as a labor tonic (hence common name, “birthroot”)- often combined with Black Cohosh and Blue Cohosh to stimulate uterine contractions and promote labor.  Used in formulas to strengthen the female reproductive system.  

A folk remedy for treating respiratory problems, including coughs, congestion, breathing difficulties, and asthma.  

An astringent used to relieve diarrhea, hemorrhage, and excessive mucus secretions.  

A poultice of fresh leaf/root was applied to tumors, slow healing ulcers, insect bites, and gangrenous conditions.

Leaves are edible and can be used in salads.

Current uses: Not a widely available commercial herb due to declining populations and slow propagation.  As a labor stimulant, small amounts of the root are used by experienced herbalists and midwives.  

Used as a stimulating expectorant in respiratory forumlas, helps reduce lung congestion and inflammation.  

Used in acute formulas to reduce menstrual bleeding or to sop excessive diarrhea.  

Harvesting: Root is harvested after flower fades in early summer.

Preparations: Tincture, decoction

Caution: **Low dosage herb**