Yellow root

Yellow Root (also known as Golden Seal, Orange Root, or Eye Balm) is a perennial herb in the buttercup family Ranunculaceae, native to southeastern Canada and the eastern United States. It may be distinguished by its thick, yellow knotted rootstock. The stem is purplish and hairy above ground and yellow below ground where it connects to the yellow rhizome.

Description

The plant bears two palmate, hairy leaves with 5–7 double-toothed lobes and single, small, inconspicuous flowers with greenish white stamens in the late spring. It bears a single berry like a large raspberry with 10–30 seeds in the summer.

Uses

Yellow Root has been attributed with several medicinal properties, and its uses vary widely. The root has been used historically by Native Americans for medicinal purposes, and the over-collection of this species for its medicinal use has resulted in its classification as an endangered species in multiple states.

Medicinal Uses

The root is often used to make medicine. Yellow Root is used for digestive disorders, including stomach pain and swelling (gastritis), peptic ulcers, colitis, diarrhea, constipation, hemorrhoids, and intestinal gas. It is also used for respiratory tract conditions, including stuffy nose and hay fever; and for liver disorders, gallbladder conditions, cancer, skin disorders, and many other conditions. However, there is limited scientific research to support these uses.

Cultivation

Yellow Root is usually propagated from rhizome division. The plant prefers a part shade to full shade position, and requires a well-drained, sandy or loamy, acid to neutral soil.

Conservation

Due to over-collection, Yellow Root is considered endangered in several states. Conservation efforts are in place to protect this species and its habitat.

See also

• List of plants used in herbalism
• Medicinal plants