Spotted Geranium (Geranium maculatum), also known as wild geranium or cranesbill, has a long history of use in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European settlers in North America. Historically, the root of the plant was valued for its astringent properties, attributed to its high tannin content. It was commonly used as a topical preparation (such as poultices or washes) to help manage minor skin infections, wounds, ulcers, and inflammation. The astringent effect was believed to help constrict tissues and reduce bleeding and discharge, thereby supporting wound healing and providing some barrier to infection.

However, scientific validation for these uses is limited. While the astringent properties of tannins are well documented and may account for some antimicrobial or protective effects, there are no high-quality clinical studies specifically evaluating Spotted Geranium for the treatment of skin infections. Most evidence remains anecdotal or based on historical texts rather than controlled trials. Laboratory studies on the antimicrobial activity of Geranium maculatum extracts are sparse and inconclusive. As such, the use of Spotted Geranium for skin infections is primarily justified by traditional use rather than robust scientific evidence.