that are actually not "herbs" in the technical sense. As is the case of with many herbs, the useful part of the plant may not necessarily be the "herbaceous" part, but rather the root, the flowering tops, and in some cases even the seeds. Cranesbill is most highly regarded for its roots.
Cranesbill root comes from a species of garden-variety Geranium, which goes by the scientific name of Geranium maculatum. Native to the eastern woodlands of North America, Geranium maculatum is a perennial flower that grows in the wild and under cultivation as well. The part of the plant that provides a useful medicinal herb, the cranesbill root, must be harvested in late February or March before the signature purple flowers appear, since this is when the tannic acid in cranesbill root is at its most potent levels.
Like many other natural herbs, dried cranesbill root is often taken as an infusion, or in
herbal teas.
Traditionally, whole cranesbill root has been used to stop internal bleeding and in the treatment of blood diseases; it is also believed to provide relief from diarrhea, since organic herbs and other plant extracts containing tannin are known to help in the absorption of excess water from the gastro-intestinal tract.
Cranebill root is one of those wildcrafted herbs that is highly astringent. This means that cranesbill root powder can be used to make an effective antiseptic mouthwash and even tooth cleaning powder.
All
bulk organic herbs should be uses cautiously. Although most bulk herbs for sale are harmless, some can cause side effects or have interactions with other herbs if not taken properly. Always consult a licensed herbalist before starting any herb-based therapy.
