SQUAWVINE (Mitchella repens)

DESCRIPTION: The plant grows in dry woods, among hemlock timber, and in swampy places; in flower in June and July. The leaves resemble those of clover and remain green throughout the winter. The fruit or berry also remains bright scarlet, is edible, and nearly tasteless, dry, and full of stony seeds. The use of the drug is peculiarly American.

POTENTIAL BENEFITS: Used as a Parturient, diuretic, tonic, and astringent that is beneficial for uterine complaints.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS: Relatively safe when taken by mouth

PARTS USED: Stem and Leaves

GENERAL USAGE: Often used for anxiety, diarrhea, water retention, low urine output, varicose veins, insomnia, congestive heart failure, kidney failure, and liver failure. Women will also take it for treating menstrual disorders and vaginal discharge.

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