Plants and People Project

Bloodroot - Sanguinaria canadensis

Bloodroot is also called Puccoon or Red Puccoon, Indian Paint, Redroot, Pauson and Tetterwort. The name comes from the deep red juice that comes from the red root.

Native Americans used the red juice to decorate their faces and bodies for ceremonial occasions. Native Woodland Wildflowers

Native Americans and early settlers used this plant extensively as a medicine. It was also used as a dye that yields a yellow orange color. Ancient textiles

"An extract has long been used in toothpaste and mouthwash to fight plaque and gingivitis and this use is now sanctioned by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration." Wildflowers of the southeasteastern U.S.

Identification and other facts / More facts

Bloodroot