Botanical name: Chamaelirium luteum
© Martin Wall
Parts used and where grown
False unicorn is native to Mississippi and continues to grow primarily in the southern part
of the United States. The roots of false unicorn are most commonly used in herbal
medicine.
False unicorn has been
used in connection with the following conditions (refer to the
individual health concern for complete information):
| Science Ratings |
Health Concerns |
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Dysmenorrhea (painful
menstruation)
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Historical or traditional use (may
or may not be supported by scientific studies)
The medicinal use of false unicorn root is based in traditional Native American herbalism.
It was recommended for many women’s health conditions, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and other
irregularities of menstruation, as well as to prevent miscarriages.1 False unicorn
was also used as a remedy for morning
sickness.
Active constituents
Steroidal saponins are generally credited with providing false unicorn root’s
activity.2 However, modern investigations have not confirmed this, and no research
exists about the medical applications of this herb.
How much is usually taken?
False unicorn root tincture, 1/2–1 teaspoon (2–5 ml) three times per day, is
sometimes recommended .3 The dried root, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 grams)
three times per day, is also used.
Are there any side effects or interactions?
No adverse effects have been reported with the use of false unicorn. Although false unicorn
has been used historically for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and to prevent miscarriages,
its actions as a possible uterine tonic make its use during pregnancy potentially unsafe.
At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions
with false unicorn.
References:1. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal
Medicine. Middlesex, UK: Viking Arkana, 1991, 520–2.
2. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal
Medicine. Middlesex, UK: Viking Arkana, 1991, 520–2.
3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide
for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 116.