- Region
- North America
- Origin
- North America
North America · Herb · № 281
Iris versicolor
Herb · North America
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Iris versicolor
Traditionally attributed effects: anti-inflammatory, diuretic, stimulating, laxative.
Safety notes
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose. Not long-term. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (2)
- Western herbalism: Not long-term. Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
- Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine: Poisonous: vomiting, diarrhoea, irritation.
Preparation
Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Use in traditions
Indigenous peoples of eastern North America used the rhizome as an emetic and laxative and as a poultice on sores and bruises. The Eclectic physicians of the 19th century made 'iris' one of their most important remedies for glandular and skin complaints. The fresh root is poisonous.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Herbal medicine worldwide
Attributed effects
Anti-inflammatory, diuretic, stimulating, laxative.
Preparation and amount
Rhizome.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Cleansing, laxative, diuretic, stimulating, promotes bile; opens the elimination pathways, stimulates a sluggish liver, helps with skin rash, lymph congestion and mood swings/hot flushes.
Preparation and amount
Traditionally used forms: decoction, tincture.
Caution: Not long-term. Poisonous or risky: only under expert supervision. No dosage is given here on purpose.
Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) medicine
Attributed effects
As a strong laxative and for stomach complaints of the elderly.
Preparation and amount
Do not use it yourself. The tradition boils the root of a few plants in plenty of water.
Caution: Poisonous: vomiting, diarrhoea, irritation.