Bloodroot

Dermatitis. 2012 Nov-Dec;23(6):281-3. doi: 10.1097/DER.0b013e318273a4dd.

Abstract

BLOODROOT (Sanguinaria canadensis) is a flowering herb that can be used as a drug. Historically, it was widely used by Native Americans in blood tonification and purification, pain and fever relief, and wound healing. Bloodroot plants have been advertised to impart a wide range of medical properties, and many bloodrood-containing products are commercially available. Potential side effects of bloodroot products include significant tissue destruction, escarification, and keloid formation. Therefore, it is critical for clinicians to be aware of potential risks, educate their patients on treatment options, and be able to recognize the cutaneous effects of bloodroot and other escharotic agents.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Complementary Therapies / methods
  • Health Education
  • Humans
  • Pain / drug therapy
  • Phytotherapy / adverse effects*
  • Phytotherapy / methods*
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage*
  • Plant Extracts / adverse effects*
  • Plants, Medicinal / adverse effects*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sanguinaria*
  • Skin / drug effects

Substances

  • Plant Extracts