Culver’s Root (Veronicastrum virginicum), also known as black root or Leptandra, has a history of traditional use by Native American tribes and early European settlers in North America for supporting digestive and hepatic (liver) health. Its primary application historically was as a "bitter" and a mild laxative, believed to stimulate bile flow and promote regular bowel movements, thereby supporting the colon and large intestine. The root was often used to relieve symptoms such as constipation, sluggish digestion, and "biliousness" (old terminology for digestive upset associated with bile). Traditional herbalists classified it as an "alterative" and "hepatic," often combining it with other herbs in digestive or detoxification formulas.

Scientific evidence for Culver’s Root’s effects on the large intestine or colon is limited. Modern pharmacological studies are scant, and there is little clinical research to validate its efficacy or safety for supporting colon health. The rating of 2 reflects a moderate degree of traditional use, but a lack of robust scientific support. While its traditional uses are well-documented in herbal literature, anyone considering the use of Culver’s Root should do so with caution and consult healthcare professionals, especially due to the absence of substantial modern studies.