Red Root and Powder Profile

Also known as

Ceanothus americanus. New Jersey tea, Ceanote, Mountain Sweet, Tobacco Brush, Deer Brush, and Wild Snowball.

Introduction

Red root is a shrub also known as wild snowball for its clusters of white flowers borne in early summer. Its root is bitter and its root tea has a "bite." Red root was used as a substitute for tea during the American Revolutionary War.

Constituents

Ceanothine, tannins.

Parts Used

Root bark.

Typical Preparations

Teas, tinctures and in capsule form. Also used as a natural dye.

Summary

Precautions

Should not be taken by pregnant or nursing women as it may interfere with the absorbtion of iron and other minerals.