Evidence supporting the use of: Cranesbill
For the health condition: Dysentery
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum), also known as wild geranium, has been traditionally used in Western herbal medicine as an astringent to treat various gastrointestinal conditions, including dysentery. The plant’s root contains tannins, which are compounds known for their astringent properties that can help reduce inflammation and inhibit fluid secretion in the intestines. Historical herbal texts and records from the 19th and early 20th centuries describe its use by Native American healers and early settlers to manage diarrhea and dysentery symptoms. However, while the traditional use is well documented, there is limited modern scientific research directly validating its effectiveness for dysentery specifically. Most available evidence relates to the general astringent and anti-inflammatory effects of tannin-rich plants. No robust clinical trials have been conducted to confirm its efficacy or safety for this indication. Therefore, the use of cranesbill for dysentery is primarily supported by tradition and empirical use, and the strength of evidence is low (rated 2/5), reflecting a lack of modern scientific validation despite historical precedent.
Other ingredients used for Dysentery
Activated charcoalAloe vera
barberry
berberine
blackberry
clove
goldenseal
Marshmallow
Peppermint
pomegranate
slippery elm bark
Zinc
xanthium (cockleburs)
holarrhena antidysenterica
Alcohol
Acacia
Agave
Agrimony
Allicin
Abrus
Alchornea
Areca
Andrographis
Alstonia scholaris
Agrimonia pilosa
Abuta
Alstonia macrophylla
Amor seco
Arani
bai ji
back nightshade
cranesbill
Coin-leaf desmodium
Ficus religiosa
golden shower tree
Hedyotis
Kachnar
Kamala
Lantana camara
Sanguisorba
Tannins
Tamaricaceae
Other health conditions supported by cranesbill
Abdominal PainBleeding (external)
Cuts
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Inflammation
Injuries
Pain (general remedies for)
Scratches and Abrasions
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores