Bloodroot is one of the first wildflowers to pop up and bloom in spring. With it’s starched white blossoms and golden stamen, it’s easy to spot in the still brown woods.
Bloodroot has an interesting protection system. Until the blossom has been pollinated, the leaf stays curled around the flowering stem, offering extra protection from cold or insects. I’ve never thought to be envious of bloodroot before, but I have to say that the thought of being cocooned by something protecting me from the outside world sounds very appealing these days!
Once the blossom has been pollinated, the leaf unfurls and begins to grow and will continue to do so until mid – summer, when it can be 5 – 6 inches across. The seeds are surrounded by a substance called elaiosome, a rather slimy substance which ants love much more than the seeds themselves, which they just discard. As the ants often will travel a bit of a distance before spitting out the seed, they serve as a very effective mechanism for dispersing the seeds.
Bloodroot received its name from the bright red sap found in the stem and root. Even though the sap was used (sparingly) as medicine by both American Indians and pioneers, it is quite toxic and should not be taken internally.
For a while there was great hope that active alkaloids within bloodroot could be used in modern medicines to fight cancer and other diseases. At one time it was included in toothpaste and mouthwash to help fight plaque but this was discontinued when it became clear that it was doing much more harm than good.
American Indians used the sap from the plant, mixed with bear or other animal fat, as a dye for coloring baskets and blankets, or as war paint. It is still used as a natural dye but by far the best use of the plant is to raise your spirits with the knowledge that spring is here again after a long, wet winter.
I hope that you are all taking care of yourselves and staying safe in the midst of all this craziness. If nothing else, go out and enjoy the sunshine and look for the little bloodroot in the still-brown leaves. It is guaranteed to make you feel better.