Melanthiaceae
False Unicorn Root
Chamaelirium luteum
⚠ Use with Caution
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Eastern North America
Also known as: Blazing Star, Fairy Wand, Devil's Bit, Grub Root
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Female infertility (ovarian weakness — traditional), morning sickness (small doses), irregular menstruation, threatened miscarriage (uterine tonic). Classic Eclectic medicine reproductive herb.
Herbal Actions
Uterine tonic, ovarian tonic, emmenagogue, mild diuretic
Active Constituents
Steroidal saponins (chamaelirin, helonin — primary), flavonoids, resin
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 0.5–1 tsp dried root simmered 20 min in 250ml, 2–3x daily |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 60% ethanol), 2–3x daily |
| Notes | Endangered — use only cultivated sources. Specific for female reproductive weakness. Traditionally combined with black cohosh, blue cohosh for reproductive conditions. Professional guidance recommended. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Endangered — source ethically. High doses emetic. Caution in pregnancy — traditional use requires skilled guidance. Avoid in acute GI inflammation.
Side Effects: Nausea and vomiting at high doses. GI irritation. Generally safe at therapeutic doses.