Botanical Overview
Sanguinaria canadensis, commonly known as Bloodroot, Redroot, Canada puccoon, and Tetterwort, is a perennial herbaceous plant from the family Papaveraceae native to Eastern North America, including the United States and Canada. The rhizome and root are primarily used medicinally.
Energetics
Bloodroot is considered warming and drying in energetic quality. Its taste profile is pungent and bitter, producing relaxing tonicity. Other traditional energetics such as directionality and qi/blood/fluid effects are not well documented.
Primary Actions
- Emetic
- Expectorant
- Antimicrobial
- Irritant
- Alterative
Indications
Western
Bloodroot has been traditionally employed to address respiratory conditions such as cough and bronchitis, as well as skin infections and inflammations. It has topical applications for wart removal and mucous membrane inflammations.
Syndromes
- Respiratory congestion
- Localized infections of skin and mucous membranes
TCM
Not documented
Ayurveda
Not documented
Unani
Not documented
Constituents & Mechanisms
Main phytochemicals responsible for activity include benzylisoquinoline alkaloids such as sanguinarine, chelerythrine, and protopine, known for their antimicrobial and irritant actions. These alkaloids contribute to Bloodroot’s expectorant and emetic properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 45% ethanol, 0.5–1 mL up to 3 times daily (adult)
- Poultice for topical use (brief application recommended to avoid burns)
- Powdered rhizome used in low doses
Safety & Contraindications
Bloodroot is toxic in large doses and can cause severe irritation or burns when applied topically. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and lactation and should be avoided in ulcerative mucous conditions and by those sensitive to alkaloids. Caution is warranted to prevent mucous membrane damage, and interactions with anticoagulants or other irritants are possible.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliable traditional sources found to assign planetary or elemental rulers to Sanguinaria canadensis.
Selected References
- Plants For A Future (PFAF), “Sanguinaria canadensis (Bloodroot)”
- American Herbal Pharmacopoeia, “Sanguinaria canadensis Root – Bloodroot” (1998)
- U.S. National Library of Medicine, NIH – MedlinePlus, “Bloodroot”
- Turner, Nancy J., “Plants of Coastal British Columbia – Sanguinaria canadensis” (2003)
- Heinrich, Michael, “Medicinal Plants in North America: An Ethnobotanical Dictionary” (2012)