Partridgeberry Profile

Also known as- Mitchella repens, Squaw Vine, Checkerberry, Deerberry, Winter Clover, Hive Vine, One-Berry, Twin-Berry, and Squaw Berry

Introduction

Partridgeberry is an evergreen herb that grows in the woodlands of North America. It is best gathered in the early spring through the early summer. Called a ïuniquely American remedyÍ, it was used by Native American women to help prepare the body for childbirth, and is believed to help relieve painful menstruation by toning the uterus. Several noted herbalists of the past and present recommend drinking an infusion of partridgeberry with raspberry leaves during the last weeks of pregnancy to help prepare the body for labor, or with cramp bark and passionflower for dysmenorrhea.
In addition, many writers note that partridgeberry exerts a calming influence on the nerves, and Susan Weed, author of Wise Woman Herbal for the Childbearing Years, writes that it was used to enhance fertility.

Constituents

Tannin, bitter principle, saponins, mucilage, unspecified alkaloids, glycosides, resin

Parts Used

Whole plant including leaf and stems (excluding roots)

Preparations

As a tea infusion, and in liquid herbal extracts

Typical Preparations

Berry tea and infusions have been used by Native American women for centuries to increase fertility, relieve menstrual problems and prepare the body for childbirth. The uses are mostly traditional, and recommended by practitioners of holistic medicine. ThereÍs no supporting research, but the anecdotal evidence is strong.

Summary

Partridgeberry should not be used during pregnancy before the last two weeks as it may induce miscarriage.

Educational purposes only
This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.
This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.