Bethroot

Scientific Name(s): Trillium erectum L., Trillium grandiflorum (Michaux) Salisb.
Common Name(s): Bethroot, Birthroot, Cough root, Ground lily, Indian balm, Jewsharp, Purple trillium, Snake bite, Stinking Benjamin, Trillium, Trillium pendulum, Wake-robin

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 27, 2021.

Clinical Overview

Use

Although there are no studies to support these uses, trillium has been used to stop postpartum bleeding and it also may play a role in the topical control of bleeding and relief from insect bites.

Dosing

There is no clinical evidence to guide dosage of trillium.

Contraindications

Contraindications have not yet been determined.

Pregnancy/Lactation

Documented adverse effects (emmenagogue and uterine stimulant). Avoid use.

Interactions

None well documented.

Adverse Reactions

Although not yet clinically observed, trillium could have potential membrane-irritating effects and induce some cardiac activity.

Toxicology

Although the leaves of the plant have been considered to be edible by some, there remains the possibility of toxicity from the plant.

Scientific Family

• Liliaceae

Botany

T. erectum is a low-growing perennial that reaches a height of 40 to 45 cm and is native to North America. It has 3 dark green diamond-shaped leaves, each about 18 cm long. From April to June it produces a solitary, odiferous, yellow to reddish-brown flower. The unpleasant smell is the reason for the name stinking Benjamin. T. erectum produces only 1 fruit per plant.Chevallier 1996, Duke 2003, Lapointe 1998

History

Various trillium species have been used by American Indians to treat gynecological conditions including irregular menstrual periods, menstrual pain, excessive vaginal discharge, and to aid childbirth (hence the name birthroot), as well as for diarrhea and as an expectorant. Topical preparations were used to relieve insect bites and skin irritations. T. erectum is a popular folk remedy for bleeding, snakebites, and skin irritations. The leaves have been used as a potherb or salad green.Chevallier 1996, USDA 2016

Chemistry

Review of the scientific literature reveals little data about the chemistry of this plant. Tertiary literature documents trillium species containing a fixed and volatile oil, a saponin (trillarin, which is a diglycoside of diosgenin), a glycoside resembling convallamarin, tannic acid, a resin, and considerable starch.Chevallier 1996, Hufford 1988, Spoerke 1980 Steroidal saponins have been identified, some of which may possess cytotoxic activity.Hayes 2009, Yokosuka 2008

Uses and Pharmacology

There is limited pharmacological data in the scientific literature on T. erectum. Review of tertiary literature suggests the medicinal component of the plant is the rhizome. Although trillium has been used for many years as an herbal means of controlling postpartum bleeding as well as other uterine bleeding problems, a clear mechanism for this systemic effect has not been identified.Duke 2003, Osol 1955 The plant may have astringent properties that account for its ability to limit topical bleeding and irritation. This action also was the basis for its historic use in diarrhea.Osol 1955, USDA 2016 No chemical basis has been identified for its traditional use as an expectorant. There is no evid...