Cranesbill | Geranium spp

Family: Geraniaceae

Parts Used: Leaves and Roots

Appearance: Cranesbill is a perennial from a thick, scaly rhizome and woody and hairy stem base. The leaves are divided into 3-5 irregularly lobed and toothed segments that are more broad than long. The flowers can be blue to pink in colour and are typically bloom in clusters of 3-5 flowers. Cranesbill can be found in meadows, moist open forests and in disturbed soil throughout our area as far as Alaska.

Medicinal Uses: Cranesbill is a strong astringent  and anti-inflammatory with specificity to the pelvic region. It can be used to treat hemorrhoids, diarrhea, bleeding gums as a gargle, excess uterine bleeding and vaginitis as a douche made from the tea.

Preparation: Visit the 'Medicine Making' page for more details

• Dry plant tincture as a 1:5 ratio in 50% alcohol (or 10% glycerine) suing 1/2-1 tsp as needed

• Strong decoction can be made from the roots and take as 1-4 fluid ounces as needed

• Powdered dry plant can be used topically as first aid to stop the bleeding of minor cuts

Cautions: long term use should be avoided due to its high tannin content, and it should be taken away from other supplements and medications. Please speak with your healthcare provider to ensure Cranesbill is safe for you.