Shop products for Cranesbill 
Botanical name: Geranium maculatum
Parts used and where grown
Cranesbill originated in North America and is sometimes grown ornamentally in a variety of flower colours. The root is primarily used in herbal medicine, but the above-ground part of the plant has also been used traditionally by herbalists.
Cranesbill has been used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the individual health concern for complete information):
| Rating | Health Concerns |
|---|---|
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Reliable and relatively consistent scientific data showing a substantial health benefit. Contradictory, insufficient, or preliminary
studies suggesting a health benefit or minimal health benefit. For an herb, supported by traditional use but
minimal or no scientific evidence. For a supplement, little scientific support and/or minimal
health benefit. | |
Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The Blackfoot Indians of North America used the root of cranesbill and closely related plants to stop bleeding.1 Cranesbill has also been used by other indigenous tribes of North America to treat diarrhoea.
Active constituents
Cranesbill is high in tannins, which may account for its anti-diarrhoeal activity.2 Little scientific research exists to clarify cranesbill’s constituents and actions.
How much is usually taken?
A tea can be prepared by boiling 1–2 teaspoons (5–10 grams) of the root for ten to fifteen minutes in 2 cups (500 ml) of water.3 People can drink three (750 ml) or more cups per day. Cranesbill tincture (approximately 1/2 teaspoon or 3 ml) three times per day is also commonly used, although generally in combination with other herbs, for diarrhoea. Dried, powdered cranesbill root is sometimes used in an herbal combination to treat Crohn’s disease; however, there are no scientific studies to support this combination.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
Cranesbill tea should not be used for more than two to three consecutive weeks. Due to the high tannin content, some people may develop an upset stomach after using cranesbill.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with cranesbill.
