The white root is a medicinal plant used since ancient times, which in the meantime had fallen somewhat into oblivion. Because of its appearance, there is a risk of confusion with the lily of the valley. The berries can be confused with blueberries.
Occurrence and cultivation of the whiteroot
Because of its appearance, the whiteroot can be confused with the lily of the valley. The berries can be confused with blueberries. Whiteroot (Polygonatum odoratum, Polygonatum officinale, Polygonatum multiflorum), also called Solomon’s seal, is a member of the asparagus family. It is found throughout the northern hemisphere of the earth. There grows mainly the many-flowered whiteroot and the fragrant whiteroot, which is also called true Solomon’s seal. The name whitewort refers to the whitish roots of the plant. Solomon’s seal is the name given to the plant because the scars that appear on the root tubers when the previous year’s flower sprouts die off are said to resemble the seal on Solomon’s ring. The plant grows with curved stems up to 60 centimeters high. The leaves are green and ovate. Several, white, pendulous, usually bell-shaped flowers sit on the stems. The whiteroot blooms from May to June. The blue-black berries ripen between August and September. These berries are poisonous. The whiteroot grows mainly in deciduous forests. Many-flowered and fragrant whiteweed differ in their stems and the number of flowers that grow together. Many-flowered whiteweed has round stems and three to five flowers, while fragrant whiteweed has only one to two flowers and an angular stem. Most parts of the whiteroot plants are poisonous. Only the roots and young shoots can be used. You can also plant whiteroot in the garden. It needs a not too dry, calcareous soil and a location in partial shade.
Effect and use
The plant contains saponins. These reduce the surface tension of water. In the human body, they lead to a hemolytic effect. This means that the red blood cells can be broken down more quickly, for example, in the case of a bruise. The allantoin in whitewort promotes cell build-up and cell regeneration. It also has a soothing effect on the skin. Whitewort has decongestant, mild diuretic, expectorant, cough suppressant, sedative, blood sugar-lowering and astringent (astringent) effects. In the 17th century, it was used as a beauty remedy for age spots and freckles. It was also used as an aphrodisiac in love potions. Because of its hemolytic effect, it was also used on cuts and wounds for faster wound healing. Due to its astringent effect, white root is also used as a remedy for diarrhea and hemorrhoids. This astringent effect is due to the tannins contained in the plant. It deprives bacteria that want to settle on the skin or mucous membrane. This reduces wound secretion and pain, and wounds heal faster. Because whitewort has a calming effect, it is also used for inflammation in the stomach or intestinal tract. Because of its expectorant effect, it is used not only for coughs, but also for tuberculosis. It is also said to help with menstrual cramps. Turmeric is also said to be helpful for problems with connective tissue, bones or vision, as well as for osteoarthritis. It strengthens the kidneys and heart and helps with discomfort with the gums. Ayurvedic medicine uses white root as a tonic and aphrodisiac, as well as against infertility. In traditional Chinese medicine, whitewort is a remedy for heart disease. In folk medicine, whitewort is considered a remedy for gout and vaginal discharge. In homeopathy, whitewort is used under the name Polygonatum against freckles and skin spots. For skin blemishes, pimples, skin inflammations and bruises, whiteroot is used externally. A massage oil with whitewort helps with broken bones and sports injuries. For internal use, tea or a tincture can be made from whitewort. For external use, a tincture or oil is also used. The roots and young shoots of the plant are used.
Importance for health, treatment and prevention.
The roots of whiteroot are collected in spring and autumn and used crushed. Powdered roots are mixed with water to form a paste.This paste is applied for skin inflammation, wounds or nail bed inflammation. For bruises and sprains, a cream made from tincture of white root and beeswax is used. To make this cream, 20 grams of beeswax are gently heated, not boiled, with two tablespoons of shea butter, 50 milliliters of jojoba oil and 50 milliliters of almond oil in a saucepan. Once everything is melted, add 20 drops of white root tincture. Stirring constantly, allow the mixture to cool to a smooth cream. In a closed tin, this cream can be stored in a cool place for four to six months. It also helps against muscle pain and strengthens connective tissue when massaged into the appropriate areas. To prepare the tincture, the cleaned roots are cut very small and put into a screw-top jar. The jar is then filled with clear alcohol of at least 50 percent strength, for example vodka. This mixture must infuse for four weeks, shaking once a day. Then the mixture is strained and transferred to a dark bottle for storage. For internal applications, 10 to 20 drops serve three times a day. For a wound dressing, 10 drops of the tincture are dissolved in 500 milliliters of water. To make an oil of whitewort, crushed roots are poured olive oil in a screw-top jar and left for two weeks. During this time, the oil is shaken daily. Then the roots are removed and the oil is used to treat rheumatism, bruises or haematomas.
