Cranesbill

Identity

Common Name

Cranesbill

Scientific Name

Geranium maculatum

Botanical Family

Geraniaceae

Native Region

North America and Europe

Cultivation Regions

North America, Europe, temperate regions

Plant Parts Used

Root, Aerial parts

Synonyms

Wild Geranium, Spotted Cranesbill, Alum Root

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

A low clump-forming perennial with deeply lobed palmate green leaves on long stalks and loose clusters of five-petalled lavender-pink flowers with delicate veins; the root and aerial parts are used.

Historical Background

Cranesbill (wild geranium) has been an astringent herb of Indigenous North American and European traditions for centuries, its root sipped for digestion and gentle throat and wound comfort. Its pink flowers and lobed leaves brew a mild, astringent tea long used in folk practice.

Earliest recorded uses: Indigenous North American and European traditions for centuries; an astringent wound, throat, and digestive herb.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Mild, slightly astringent, green, floral

Tea Information

Research Summary

Cranesbill has a tradition as an astringent digestive, throat, and wound herb; preclinical work shows antioxidant and tannin-rich activity. Clinical evidence is insufficient; it is not a treatment for diarrhea, sore throat, or any disease, though it remains a gentle folk astringent tea.

Evidence levels reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources