Cranesbill

Cranesbill is a plant found in North America, the Mediterranean, and other temperate zones around the planet. There is some confusion surrounding what cranesbill describes because recently some of the plants included in the cranesbill family have been reclassified, including the North American species from which the herb derives.

What medicinal uses does cranesbill have?

Cranesbill contains tannins, a chemical which appears in many diarrhea medications.

Cranesbill was popular among the indigenous North American Blackfoot tribe to stop bleeding. The leaves were applied to wounds and sores.

Cranesbill root and seeds were consumed to treat diarrhea. Some herbalists have attempted to treat Crohn’s disease with cranesbill. This is a highly dubious use of cranesbill with no supportive research.

Are there side effects to using cranesbill?

High dosages of cranesbill cause stomach pains and cramping because of the tannins.

Experts suggest that regimens of cranesbill, whether in raw or tea form, not exceed two weeks.

What forms of cranesbill are available?

Stores usually carry the raw root or some extract. Boiling 1-2 teaspoons of cranesbill in a cup of water makes for a good dosage. Drink three times daily.

Tinctures are also available. Two to three drops, mixed with a cup of water, should be taken three times a day.

A limited remedy

Cranesbill is touted as many things, but only its ability to cure diarrhea is well documented.