Cranesbill
Other names for Cranesbill
american cranesbill
cranes bill
cranesbill
cranesbill (geranium maculatum) root extract
cranesbill (geranium maculatum) root extract 4:1
cranesbill (geranium maculatum) root powder
cranesbill root
cranesbill root extract, dry
cranesbill root glycerite liquid extract
cranesbill root powder
geranium maculatum
geranium maculatum extract
geranium maculatum root extract, dry
organic geranium
wildcrafted cranesbill extract
wildcrafted cranesbill (geranium maculatum) dried root liquid extract
wild geranium
wild geranium extractives
wild geranium liquid extract
wild geranium rhizome (geranium maculatum) extract
wild harvested cranesbill extract
Synopsis of Cranesbill
History
Cranesbill refers to several species of the Geranium genus, most notably Geranium maculatum (commonly known as wild geranium or spotted cranesbill). Historically, cranesbill has held a prominent place in traditional herbal medicine, particularly among Native American and early European practitioners. Its roots were often dried and powdered for use as an astringent remedy, due to its high tannin content. This made it a popular treatment for gastrointestinal ailments such as diarrhea and dysentery, and it was even administered to halt excessive bleeding, both internally and externally. The plant's gentle, yet effective action made it a staple for soothing sore throats, mouth ulcers, and minor wounds.
As herbal medicine evolved, cranesbill became a valued component in various herbal combinations. It was often blended with other botanicals like goldenseal, echinacea, or slippery elm to enhance its soothing and astringent properties. In these formulas, cranesbill contributed to overall digestive health, supported wound healing, and aided in the management of inflammation. Its compatibility with a wide range of herbs allowed practitioners to tailor remedies to individual needs, making it a flexible and reliable ally in the herbalist’s toolkit.
Today, cranesbill continues to be respected for its gentle efficacy and safety profile. As part of modern nutritional products, it offers a natural approach to promoting gastrointestinal balance and tissue health. Its enduring role in both historical and contemporary herbal medicine is a testament to its valuable contributions to wellness and holistic healing.
Traditional and scientific validation
Cranesbill, commonly referred to in herbal medicine as Geranium species, has a long history of traditional use across Europe, Asia, and North America. Historically, Native American and European herbalists utilized cranesbill root, particularly Geranium maculatum, for its astringent properties, applying it to support digestive health, address gastrointestinal discomfort, and promote wound healing. The plant’s high content of tannins is believed to underlie many of its traditional benefits, particularly its purported ability to soothe inflammation and support mucosal tissue integrity.
In terms of scientific validation, research on cranesbill remains limited compared to other botanical extracts. Preliminary laboratory studies have identified bioactive compounds in cranesbill, such as ellagitannins and flavonoids, which are known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Some small-scale clinical studies and animal experiments suggest that these constituents may support gut health by modulating inflammation and protecting mucosal barriers. Additionally, the astringent action of cranesbill has been explored for reducing minor bleeding and alleviating mild diarrhea, although robust clinical trials in humans are lacking.
While cranesbill’s use in modern nutritional products is largely inspired by its traditional applications and promising phytochemical profile, comprehensive scientific evidence confirming its efficacy is still emerging. Further high-quality clinical research is needed to fully establish its health benefits and optimal applications. Nonetheless, cranesbill remains a valued botanical in natural health formulations, recognized for its gentle, time-honored support of digestive and mucosal health.
Cranesbill is used for these health conditions
Abdominal Pain (Traditional)
Bleeding (external) (Traditional)
Cuts (Traditional)
Diarrhea (Traditional)
Dysentery (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Injuries (Traditional)
Pain (general remedies for) (Traditional)
Scratches and Abrasions (Traditional)
Ulcerations (external) (Traditional)
Ulcers (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
Cranesbill is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Capillaries (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Gastrointestinal Tract (Traditional)
Gums (Traditional)
Intestinal System (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Large Intestines (Colon) (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Mucus Membranes (Traditional)
Rectum (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
