Bloodroot is used internally in the gastrointestinal tract to treat nonspecific acute diarrhea and so-called bacterial dysentery. This is an inflammatory disease of the colon caused by certain bacteria (shigella).
Bloodroot for external use
Externally, the drug is used in the form of gargle solutions or rinses for mild inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat. Also applied externally, bloodroot is also said to help heal wounds and stop bleeding, and to help with various skin conditions.
Bloodroot in folk medicine
In folk medicine, bloodroot has been used internally since the 16th century as a remedy for diarrhea (antidiarrheal), and externally for inflammation of the mucous membranes of the mouth and throat and for wound healing.
Bloodroot is hardly used in homeopathy.
Ingredients of bloodroot
Tormentil rhizome contains 15-20% of mainly condensed catechin tannins. These convert to less soluble phlobaphene over time during storage. Small amounts of elllagittannins and phenolic carboxylic acids also occur, as well as the triterpene glucoside tormentoside as a lead substance.
Bloodroot: for what indication?
Bloodroot may be helpful in the following indications:
- Diarrhea
- Bacterial dysentery
- Inflammation of the mucous membrane in the mouth and pharynx
- Sore throat
- Wounds
- Skin diseases
