Yellow Root Facts

Yellow root, or Xanthorhiza simplicissima, is a species of plant that is often confused with another plant, Hydrastis Canadensis. The latter is sometimes called yellow root but is actually goldenseal. Yellow root, when made into a tea, is a bitter drink.

Description

• Yellow root is a small shrub that usually does not exceed 27 inches in height. The branches contain leaves arranged in a spiral. Its flowers resemble 5-pointed, reddish-brown or purple-brown stars. The roots are bright yellow

Habitat

• Yellow root naturally grows in sandy soil, usually in semi-shaded areas on the edge of streams in the mountains.

Range

• Yellow root grows as far north as eastern Maine, as far south as northern Florida, and as far west as eastern Texas. It is native to the North American continent.

Alternative Medicine

• Yellow root's medicinal properties have not been scientifically proven. But in folk medicine, it is used to treat a range of ailments: sore throats, mouth infections, diabetes, a weakened immunune system. It is also used as a sedative, to strengthen the uterus, and to stimulate the liver. Scientific medicine has not proven the viability of this product.

Native Americans

• The Native Americans used yellow root as a dye for clothing, as an external tonic for sores and a tea for treating ulcers. They made the dye, tonic, and tea by placing the root in boiling water.