Geranium carolinianum, also known as Carolina geranium, Carolina cranesbill, Crane’s Bill geranium, and wild geranium, grows natively across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. It thrives in areas with poor soil, clay, and limestone. You’ll often find it along roadsides, in abandoned fields, and around farmland, making it a resilient and accessible herb.
Identification
Carolina geranium, a low-growing winter annual or biennial herb, typically remains under 12 inches tall. Its unique “cranesbill” name comes from the beak-like shape of its fruit. Notably, its palmate leaves have 5 to 7 toothed lobes, and each lobe is further divided, giving the plant its distinct look.
The grayish-green leaves, 1 to 2.5 inches (2.5 cm to 6 cm) wide, are covered in fine hair. Each leaf typically has five segments edged with deep teeth, while its pinkish-red stems rise upright, similarly covered in hair. From April through July, small clusters of white, pink, or lavender flowers bloom on stalks that branch off the main stems. Every flower features five sepals and five notched petals.
By fall, the half-inch long fruits ripen. Mature seeds develop small pits or depressions, which aid in their natural dispersal. Additionally, the plant has a taproot system that grows near the surface, making it relatively easy to harvest.
Edible Use
Carolina geranium is versatile in the kitchen as it can be eaten raw, cooked, or made into tea. The roots, when boiled for about 10 minutes, soften and become easier to consume. Interestingly, the water used for boiling the roots doubles as a tea that can alleviate stomach discomfort.
However, the leaves are quite bitter due to their high tannin content. If you prefer a milder flavor, it’s best to harvest the leaves while they are young. Another method to reduce bitterness is to change the water during cooking. For a better taste, many people consume the tea with milk and cinnamon.
Medicinal Use
Carolina geranium holds medicinal value, especially its tannin-rich roots, although the leaves are also beneficial.
Stops Bleeding and Dries out Tissue
The entire plant contains astringent tannins, which help contract tissues and stop bleeding. Applying the root or leaves as a poultice on wounds can effectively dry out the tissue and promote healing. To stop bleeding, clean the root or leaves and apply them directly to the wound. Hold the compress tightly for a few minutes until the bleeding ceases, then bind the area with gauze or a clean cloth.
Additionally, Carolina geranium is excellent for use in skin salves that promote faster healing.
Diarrhea and Stomach Upset
Root tea from this plant is effective for treating diarrhea and stomach upset. Its soothing properties calm the stomach lining, helping reduce irritation and inflammation.
Canker Sores
Washing canker sores with Carolina geranium tea or applying a root poultice speeds up healing. Thanks to its astringent properties, the plant dries out the sores, offering quick relief.
Sore Throats
Carolina geranium root is also known to soothe sore throats. While there are claims of its potential antiviral properties, more research is necessary to fully confirm this.
Hepatitis B
The tinctured root of this plant contains compounds like geraniin and hyperin, both of which exhibit anti-Hepatitis B (HBV) activity. These properties make it a valuable natural option for addressing this viral infection.
Harvesting
When harvesting, collect young leaves and either use them fresh or dry them for later. The roots are best dug up in late fall when they are packed with stored starch, but early spring harvests are also possible. Once collected, clean and slice the roots thinly. You can either dry them for long-term storage or use them fresh.
Recipes
Leaf Tea
- 2 tablespoons dried leaves and stems
- 2 cups boiling water
- Pour the boiling water over the dried leaves.
- Allow the tea to steep, off the heat, for at least 10 minutes.
- Strain and enjoy.
Root Tea
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons chopped, dried root
- Bring the water to a boil and add the chopped root.
- Reduce the heat and simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
- Remove from the heat and steep for another 10 minutes. You can consume up to 3 cups daily.
Tincture
Ingredients:
- Sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid
- ¾ jar cleaned, chopped fresh root or ½ jar dried root
- 80-proof vodka or another alcohol
- Cheesecloth or fine mesh strainer
- Glass bowl for straining
Instructions:
- Sterilize all jars, utensils, and bowls with boiling water.
- Pack the jar with herbs (¾ full for fresh root or ½ full for dried root).
- Fill the jar with alcohol, ensuring all the herbs are covered. Seal the lid tightly.
- Store the jar in a cool, dark place and shake it daily for 6 to 8 weeks.
- Strain the contents, removing the roots and any sediment.
- Once clean, pour the tincture into amber bottles, label, and date them.
- Store the bottles in a cool, dark location for up to 10 years.
Conclusion
Carolina geranium is a versatile plant with various uses, from treating wounds and stomach upset to soothing sore throats and addressing canker sores. Its high tannin content makes it a powerful astringent, useful in both cooking and medicine. Whether you’re preparing it for a tea, poultice, or tincture, this resilient herb offers natural solutions for everyday health. For more on how herbs like the California poppy can also promote healing and well-being, check out our article on its medicinal benefits.