Geraniaceae
Crane’s Bill Herb
Geranium robertianum
✓ Generally Safe
Caution in Pregnancy
Native to: Europe, Asia, North Africa, North America
Also known as: Herb Robert, Red Robin, Death Come Quickly, Fox Geranium
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Aerial parts
Therapeutic Uses
Wounds and skin conditions (topical astringent), diarrhea, oral ulcers, cancer adjunct (germanium — controversial). Traditional European wound herb.
Herbal Actions
Astringent, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary, antimicrobial, antidiabetic (emerging)
Active Constituents
Tannins (geraniin — primary, corilagin, ellagic acid up to 18%), flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol), volatile oil, small amount organic germanium
Preparation Methods
☕ Herbal Tea🏺 Tincture🧴 Salve/Balm
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 2 tsp fresh herb per 250ml, steep 10 min, 3x daily or as topical wash |
| Tincture | 2–4 ml (1:5, 25% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Fresh herb most potent. Compress or poultice for wounds. Mouthwash for oral ulcers. Pungent smell — fresh herb smells of burned rubber (geraniol). Highly astringent. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
✓ Generally Safe
Pregnancy
Caution in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid large doses in pregnancy. Generally very safe.
Side Effects: Constipation (excess tannins). Very safe generally.