Cransebill Root and Powder Profile

Also known as- Geranium maculatum, Geranium robertianum, Wild Geranium, Alum Root, American Cranesbill, Spotted Cranesbill, Old MaidÍs Nightcap, and Crowfoot.

Introduction

Cranesbill is an unusually rich source of tannins. It is so rich in tannins that it is a traditional astringent for bleeding, and an essential tool of Russian herbal medicine for treating diarrhea.

Constituents

Tannins, which oxidize to give the tea a red color, also gums, resins, starch, anthocyanidins, and calcium oxalate.

Parts Used

Leaves (of herb Robert) or roots (of Geranium maculatum).

Typical Preparations

Tea, tincture, and poultice.

Summary

Cranesbill is used for its tannins, compounds that cause proteins in mucous membranes and other linings of the human body exposed directly to the tea to cross-link to prevent leakage or infection. Its primary use in modern herbal medicine is to treat diarrhea in children without side effects. It is also used in poultices to treat pain from infection or inflammation and to relieve the discomfort of cyclic breast pain. The "tanning" action of cranesbill makes it useful for treating conditions as varied as sore throat, canker sores, ulcers, burns, gingivitis, leukorrhea, hemorrhoids,

Precautions

None reported

 

For 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.

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