- Region
- North America
- Origin
- North America
North America · Herb · № 294
Chamaelirium luteum
Herb · North America
False unicorn root
Chamaelirium luteum
Traditionally attributed effects: diuretic, uterine tonic, emetic.
Safety notes
Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Preparation
Rhizome.
Use in traditions
Indigenous peoples used the root for women's complaints and to prevent miscarriage; Eclectic physicians adopted it as a uterine tonic. Overharvesting has made the plant rare in the wild, and herbalists advise using only cultivated root.
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
Diuretic, uterine tonic, emetic.
Preparation and amount
Rhizome.
Western herbalism
Attributed effects
Tonic, diuretic; strengthens the uterus and ovaries (prolapse, infertility), helps prevent miscarriage, restores appetite and calms the stomach.
Preparation and amount
Decoction: 2–3 tsp per cup, 10 min, 1–3 cups a day; tincture 1–2 dropperfuls 1–3 times a day (with threatened miscarriage 1–2 dropperfuls per hour).