Herbs Guide

Beth Root

Family Name: Liliaceae

Botanical Name(s): Trillium pendulum

Popular Name(s): Indian Shamrock, Birthroot, Lamb's Quarters, Wake-Robin, Indian Balm, Ground Lily

Parts Used: The root, rhizome and leaves

Habitat: Beth root is found in Middle and Western United States.

Description: Beth root is a perennial herb with an erect stem which gains a height from 10 to 15 inches. The plant bears a whorl of three round-ovate, acuminate leaves. Its flowers appear in May and June and are yellow-white to reddish-white in colour.

Uses: Beth root has antiseptic, astringent, diaphoretic properties. It is used as an emmenagogue, expectorant and tonic. Its leaves are used to cure ulcers and tumours. The roots are effective in curing diarrhoea and dysentery.