False Unicorn as an Herb

(Chamaelirium luteum)

This herb, which comes to us via the North American Indians, is one of the best tonics and strengtheners of the reproductive system that we have. Though primarily used for the female system, it can be equally beneficial for men. It's natural range stretches from Florida north to New York and west to the Mississippi River. Most of the significant wild populations of this plant exist in the southern portion of its range.

Called by names like fairy-wand and devil's bit, modern usage of false unicorn root is normally in tincture form.

Steroidal saponins are the chemical substances within false unicorn that are believed to provide false unicorn with its medicinal effects. However, modern investigations have not confirmed this, and no research exists about the medical applications of this herb to date.

Medicinal Uses for False Unicorn

False Unicorn is very soothing for a delicate stomach. It also stimulates the reproductive organs in women and men but has the greatest value in female disorders of the reproductive organs. This herb is very important for use during menopause, due to its positive effects on uterine disorders, headaches, and depression.

The indication for its use is a dragging sensation in the extreme lower abdomen.

False Unicorn is useful as a tonic in genito-urinary weakness or irritability, for liver and kidney diseases. Especially in diseases due to poor action of the liver and not to weakness of the heart or circulation.

Decoction: Place 1 to 2 teaspoonfuls of the root in a cup of water, bring to a boil and simmer gently for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink three times a day. For threatened miscarriage it may be drunk copiously.

Tincture: Take 2 to 4 ml of the tincture three times a day.

Culinary

None known.

Cautions

False unicorn root may cause nausea or vomiting when taken in large doses.

False unicorn may cause gastric irritation, you should use it cautiously if you have gastrointestinal problems.

False unicorn root may alter the actions of hormone drugs that affect the uterus. If you're taking estrogen or progesterone, you should consult first with your own doctor to find out whether it is safe to use false unicorn with prescription drugs or other supplements.

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DISCLAIMER: These pages are presented solely as a source of INFORMATION and ENTERTAINMENT and to provide stern warnings against use where appropriate. No claims are made for any historical herbal treatment. In no way can the information provided here take the place of the standard, legal, medical practice of any country. Some plants are extremely toxic and should be used only by licensed professionals. Some plants used for illness in the past have proven to be ineffective for the problems to which they were applied.