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The Uses of Arum Triphyllum

Arum triphyllum, a member of the family Araceae, is known by several common names, including Indian turnip, dragon root, jack-in-the-pulpit, memory root, wake robin, and Arisaema triphyllum. The plant has a number of varied uses.

  1. Eczema

    • Arum triphyllum is used as a homeopathic remedy for atopic dermatitis, commonly known as eczema, according to the Carolinas Medical Center website. Eczema, a chronic, allergic skin problem, causes an itching, flaking rash on certain parts of the body including the inner surface of the knees and elbows, as well as the scalp and upper eyelids. Used as a homeopathic remedy, Arum triphyllum can soothe irritation during flare-ups, especially around the mouth, chin and nostrils.

    Additional Medicinal Uses

    • The powdered root of the plant is used for a variety of medicinal purposes, according to the website Botanical.com. This includes chest pains, chronic laryngitis, bronchitis, flatulence, whooping cough, croup and asthma.

    Pets

    • A homeopathic formula containing Arum triphyllum is used to provide relief from itching in pets, due to allergies. According to the website Drugs.com, the formula is made specifically for cats and dogs, and should be kept away from children.

    Native Landscaping

    • A native flowering plant, Arum triphyllum grows naturally in freshwater wetlands, lower banks and in shallow water, according to the Town of Hilton Head Island website. As a native plant in the low country, Arum triphyllum has adapted to climatic conditions over long periods of time and are drought tolerant and less likely to be vulnerable to pests. The plant is indigenous throughout most of the United States.

    Food Uses

    • Native Americans used taproots of the plant as a vegetable, when cooked or dried. Ground into flour, Arum triphyllum is added to muffin batter and bread dough. Thinly sliced roots, when dried for three months, are eaten as snacks. Additionally, the berries are a source of food for birds and mammals.

    Warnings

    • The roots, berries and foliage shouldn't be eaten raw because they're extremely bitter and can cause blistering in the mouth. If touched, the roots can also cause skin blisters, reports the University of Texas at Austin website. The peppery taste of the tubers, however, can be eliminated by cooking.

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