Evidence supporting the use of: Cranesbill
For the health condition: Ulcerations (external)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2
Cranesbill (Geranium maculatum), also known as wild geranium, has a long history of traditional use in herbal medicine, particularly for external applications such as treating ulcerations, wounds, and skin inflammations. Historical herbal texts from Europe and North America cite the astringent properties of cranesbill root, which contains high levels of tannins. These tannins are believed to constrict tissue, reduce bleeding, and form a protective layer over sores or ulcers, thereby promoting healing. Traditional preparations include poultices, washes, or ointments applied directly to the affected area.
There is, however, limited modern scientific research specifically investigating cranesbill’s efficacy for external ulcerations. Most references to its use are based on ethnobotanical records, 19th and early 20th-century herbal formularies, and anecdotal reports. Some in vitro studies confirm the astringent and antimicrobial activity of Geranium maculatum extracts, but clinical trials or robust experimental data on ulcer healing are lacking. Thus, while the use of cranesbill for external ulcerations is well-supported by tradition and plausible due to known phytochemical properties, scientific validation remains minimal.
Other ingredients used for Ulcerations (external)
aloe verabisabolol
dyer’s woad root
Japanese sophora
lactoperoxidase
lauric acid
marshmallow
protease
vitamin C
zinc
rubia cordifolia
yarrow
moss
amber
birch
sheep's sorrel
assam indigo
camphor oil
stillingia
wood betony
white oak
melaleuca alternifolia
arnica
Ardisia
acacia
Agrimony
Antirrhinum majus
Achyranthes
Abrus
Alchornea
Alchemilla
Ajuga
Aucubin
American Liverleaf
Aquilegia formosa
Allantoin
Alkanet
Ampelopsis
Acemannan
Asarabacca
Abuta
Alkanna
Arisaema
Butter
Bai Ji
Baliospermum
Baphicacanthus cusia
Bleeding Heart
Black-Eyed Susan
Bloodroot
Benzoin
Borate
Bletilla
Boxwood
Comfrey
Celandine
Cranesbill
Cedrus libani
Chiococca alba
Cocklebur
Dragon's Blood
Dianthrone
Erigeron
English Elm
European Field Elm
Echinodorus
Elaeagnus glabra
Oak
Other health conditions supported by Cranesbill
Abdominal PainBleeding (external)
Cuts
Diarrhea
Dysentery
Inflammation
Injuries
Pain (general remedies for)
Scratches and Abrasions
Ulcerations (external)
Ulcers
Wounds and Sores