Melanthiaceae
Beth Root
Trillium erectum
⚠ Use with Caution
Avoid in Pregnancy
Native to: Eastern North America
Also known as: Purple Trillium, Birthroot, Wake Robin, Indian Balm
Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA
Parts Used
Root
Therapeutic Uses
Metrorrhagia (excessive uterine bleeding), postpartum hemorrhage, menopausal flooding, leucorrhea, uterine prolapse (tonic), chronic respiratory catarrh. Highly specific herb for uterine conditions.
Herbal Actions
Uterine tonic, astringent, antispasmodic, hemostatic, expectorant
Active Constituents
Steroidal saponins (trillarin, trillin), tannins, fixed oils, resin
Preparation Methods
🏺 Tincture🍵 Decoction
Traditional Preparation Notes
| Herbal Tea | 0.5 tsp dried root per 250ml, simmer 15 min, 2–3x daily |
| Tincture | 1–3 ml (1:5, 60% ethanol), 3x daily |
| Notes | Endangered — use cultivated sources only. Works best in combination: with shepherd's purse for acute uterine bleeding, with blue cohosh for uterine prolapse. Best used with professional guidance for reproductive conditions. |
Safety Information
Safety Rating
⚠ Use with Caution
Pregnancy
Avoid in Pregnancy
Drug Interactions
None known
Contraindications: Avoid in pregnancy except under skilled guidance (powerful uterotonic). Avoid with anticoagulants. Conservation concern — source ethically.
Side Effects: GI irritation at high doses. Powerful uterotonic action. Saponin toxicity at very high doses.