Description

Perennial growing to 2 ft (60 cm). Has deeply cleft leaves, pink-purple flowers, and beak-shaped fruit.

Habitat & Cultivation

Native to woodlands of eastern and central North America, the root is dug up in early spring, and the aerial parts are gathered in summer.

Parts Used

Root, aerial parts.

Constituents

Wild geranium contains up to 30% tannins.

History & Folklore

Native American peoples used wild geranium for sore throats, mouth ulcers, infected gums, and oral thrush. The herb was later used by European settlers for diarrhea, internal bleeding, cholera, and venereal diseases.

Medicinal Actions & Uses

An astringent and clotting agent, wild geranium is used today much as in earlier times. The herb is often prescribed for irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids, and it is used to staunch wounds. It may also be used to treat heavy menstrual bleeding and excessive vaginal discharge.

Related Species

See herb robert (G. robertianum).

Caution

Wild geranium should only be taken for a few weeks at a time.