Trillium

Beautiful Trillium (Trillium erectum and grandiflorum), seen here protecting its blossom from the rain, is a medicinal plant that most herbalists I know have never used, due to its status as declining in certain areas. The rhizome has a long history of use in gynecology. One of its common names, Birthwort, speaks to it use in childbirth, especially in controlling postpartum bleeding. This astringent nature also lends itself to curbing loose stool. Modern research shows Trillium’s promise in cancer treatment and neuroprotection in diseases like Alzheimer’s. But in the traditions I was trained in, Trillium’s primary use is as a source of beauty and amazement.