Bloodroot

(Sanguinaria canadensis)

Blood root should be used with extreme caution. The root is believed to be effective against cancer. The main ingredient responsible for most of its beneficial properties is a substance called Sanguinarine. Health uses of Blood root are widespread. Despite its great health benefits, it is strongly advised that the plant be used with extreme caution as it has unpleasant side effects.

It is mentioned somewhere on this site that herbalists often use medicine that come from animal and mineral sources in addition to herbal. Medicines from all these sources are collectively known as herbal medicine. Medicines from these sources are mixed with appropriate herbal extracts and preparations to treat ailments. Regardless of the source, many of these medicines are highly toxic and must be treated in different ways to kill its toxicity before dispensing for health use.

Blood root cuts off nourishment of cancer cells, thus preventing it from spreading further. This herb prevents growth of malignant cells by cutting off its blood supply, by preventing growth of new blood vessel on which cancer cells feed. Its active ingredient Sanguinarine is a known antihistamine.  It is also anti blood coagulation agent and is given to those prone to, to prevent blood clotting and reduce risk of heart attack. Blood root is expectorant and is also used along with suitable herbs for treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Blood root is anti-microbial and is used to cure infections, inflammations, bronchitis and cough.

Blood root is not recommended for pregnant or lactating mothers. Side effects may include skin irritation, stomach pains, vomiting and dizziness. In some cases headaches is also reported. Please remember that these side effects may occur during normal use of this root, overdose may result in abortion.