What Is a Dried Orris Root?

Sometimes called Iris germanica or Jacob's sword, the orris plant originated in northern India, North Africa and southern Europe. The dried roots of the orris plant are commonly used in alternative medicine, among other things.

Appearance

• Dried orris root is typically sold as a finely ground, cream-colored powder.

Function

• Herbalists credit dried orris root with loosening phlegm and mucus congestion, promoting digestion and urination and reducing inflammation.

Indications

• Herbalists use dried orris root for the treatment of skin diseases, bronchitis, lung cancer, inflammation of the spleen, kidney and liver problems, vomiting, constipation and bad breath, reports RxList.

Non-Medicinal Uses

• Dried orris root has a floral, slightly bitter flavor and is commonly used in Moroccan cooking as part of a spice blend known as ras el hanout, explains the Encyclopedia of Spices. Additionally, dried orris root is sometimes used in potpourri and perfumes due to its fragrance, which is similar to violets.

Risks

• Dried orris root poses few side effects when eaten as a spice or consumed as medicine, but, when eaten raw with its peels in tact, the plant poses a risk for stomach pain, vomiting and bloody diarrhea, warns RxList.