False Unicorn Root

Species name:  Chamaelirium luteum.

Also known as: Helionas dioica (Pursh.), Helonias lutea (Ker-Gawl), Veratrum luteum (L.), Chamaelirium carolinianum (Willd.), helionas root, blazing star root, devil's bit, starwort.

If you have any reproductive system disorders, False Unicorn Root may be the answer to the problem.

Be certain that you consult with your doctor first because overuse can cause vomiting, especially during pregnancy.

What is False Unicorn Root: Chamaelirium is a perennial herb plant that is native to North American states east of the Mississippi. It grows to a height of 30-100 cm high with a smooth angular stem and alternate leaves.

The plant has many small greenish white flowers. The plant thrives better in low moist ground.

The constituents of this herb include steroidal saponins including chamaelirin, a glycoside of diosgenin, helonin, free diosgenin, starch, and calcium oxalate. The plant is sometimes confused with Aletris farinose or true unicorn root (blazing star).

True unicorn root also contains diosgenin and has oestrogenic properties. The Native Americans, however, used false unicorn root for female reproductive organ disorders.

Home Remedies Using False Unicorn Root:

Benefits of False Unicorn Root:

False unicorn root is a value tonic for the reproductive system. It improves both secretory responses as well as the cyclical functions of the ovary.

The herb’s reputation as both an ovarian and uterine tonic may be based in part on the steroid saponins, the precursors of oestrogens. It has the ability to work as both an acid and base, thus allowing it to normalize function.

In addition to its ability to treat many problems of the female reproductive system, it is also beneficial in the prevention of morning sickness when taken in small doses; however, large doses can actually cause vomiting.

Although the herb’s primary use is for treatment of the female reproductive system, it is equally beneficial for men, especially in the treatment of impotence, and the tonic properties benefit the appetite and digestion and aids in killing and removing worms.

Uses of False Unicorn Root:

• Amenorrhea
• Dysmenorrheal
• Irregular menstruation
• Vaginal discharge
• Pelvic congestion
• Structural laxity of the pelvic organs
• Chronic pelvic inflammation
• Hormonal problems related to menopause
• Prevention of miscarriage
• Improve fertility
• The herb is taken three times a day and is a GSL Schedule 2 herb. It can be taken three ways:
• Dried rhizome and roots: 1-2g or by infusion or decoction
• Liquid Extract: 1:1 in 45% alcohol 2-5ml
• Tincture: 1:5 in 45% alcohol, 2-5ml
• Capsules: 2 capsules once a day with water

Side Effects of False Unicorn Root:

Even though this herb can help diminish miscarriage, you should not use it with consulting your physician first.

In addition, overuse causes vomiting, so you want to make certain you consult with your health care provider before you use the herb for any specific applications.