Goldthread
Coptis trifolia
PLANT NAME
Goldthread
COMMON NAMES
Three-leaf Goldthread, Canker-root, Yellowroot.
BOTANICAL NAME
Coptis trifolia
IDENTIFICATION
A low-growing evergreen perennial with bright yellow, thread-like rhizomes. It has basal leaves divided into three toothed leaflets and solitary, small white flowers.
IDENTIFICATION IMAGE
AI ART TO BE GENERATED
PARTS TRADITIONALLY USED
Roots (rhizomes) and leaves.
CULINARY USES
Not typically used for culinary purposes due to its intensely bitter taste.
TRADITIONAL USES
Used by Native American tribes and early settlers primarily as an astringent and bitter tonic. Most famous for treating mouth sores (canker sores) as a mouthwash or by chewing the root. Also used for digestive issues.
GROWING / HARVESTING
Prefers damp, mossy woods, bogs, and coniferous forests. Harvested in autumn; the bright yellow roots are dried for later use.
SAFETY / CAUTION
Contains berberine. High doses may cause nausea or digestive upset. Not recommended during pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before using this or any herbal remedy.
RELATED PLANTS
Coptis chinensis (Chinese Goldthread / Huang Lian).