Cranesbill

Geranium maculatum

Part Used: The rhizome.

Constituents: Tannins including gallic acid, with the level being highest just before flowering.

Actions: Astringent, anti–haemorrhagic, anti-inflammatory, vulnerary.

Indications: American Cranesbill is an effective astringent used in diarrhoea, dysentery and haemorrhoids. When bleeding accompanies duodenal or gastric ulceration, this remedy is used in combination with other relevant herbs. Where blood is lost in the feces, this herb will help, though careful diagnosis is vital. It may be used where excessive blood loss during menstruation (menorrhagia) or a uterine hemorrhage (metrorrhagia) occur. As a douche it can be used in leucorrhoea.

Preparations & Dosage: Decoction: put l-2 teaspoonfuls of the rhizome in a cup of cold water and bring to boiling. Let simmer for l0-l5 minutes. This should be drunk three times a day. Tincture: take 2-4 ml of the tincture three times a day.