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True unicorn root (Aletris farinosa L.)

Background

True unicorn root (Aletris farinosa L.) is a low-growing perennial herb native to
eastern North America. Found in old growth forests, the true unicorn root plant is currently
thought to be at risk due to destruction of its habitat. The rhizome, an underground stem, is
commercially processed into dried pieces.

True unicorn root has been used in Native American traditional remedies for stomach
aches, colic, dysentery, and menstrual disorders. Large doses of the fresh root may act as a
narcotic and laxative and may induce vomiting. The dried root is also traditionally used to
treat gas or hysteria, as a stomach toner, as a tonic for women, for body pain, and to
prevent miscarriage; however, some advise against its use during the third trimester of
pregnancy due to its uterine stimulation effects. Well-designed human studies are needed
to determine if true unicorn root is safe and effective for treating any medical condition.
Evidence Table
These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not
always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be
evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider. GRADE *
A: Strong scientific evidence for this use
B: Good scientific evidence for this use
C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use
D: Fair scientific evidence for this use (it may not work)
F: Strong scientific evidence against this use (it likley does not work)
Tradition / Theory
The below uses are based on tradition, scientific theories, or limited research. They often
have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always
been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by
a qualified healthcare provider. There may be other proposed uses that are not listed below.
Antispasmodic, arthritis, colic, constipation, diarrhea, diuretic (improves urine flow),
dysentery, gas, impotence, infertility, menstrual problems, miscarriage (prevention),
sedative, tonic.
Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements.
There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You
should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other
drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before
starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side
effects.

Allergies

Avoid in individuals with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to true unicorn root

(Aletris farinose), its constituents, or members of the Liliaceae family.
Side Effects and Warnings

Side effects are mainly gastrointestinal and include colic, diarrhea, nausea, and
vomiting. Other possible side effects are dullness of senses, loss of balance, stupor, and
vertigo (dizziness).

Use cautiously in patients with hormone-sensitive cancers or conditions, as true

unicorn root may affect hormonal activity.

Use cautiously in pregnant women, as true unicorn root may have estrogenic activity
and may counteract the effects of the hormone oxytocin, especially in the third trimester.

Avoid in patients with a known allergy or hypersensitivity to true unicorn root, its
constituents, or members of the Liliaceae family.

Avoid in patients with inflammatory or infectious gastrointestinal conditions, as

unicorn root may irritate the gastrointestinal tract.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

True unicorn root may have estrogenic activity and may counteract the actions of the
hormone oxytocin, especially in the third trimester.
Interactions
Interactions with Drugs

True unicorn root may interact with antiulcer agents and estrogens.
Interactions with Herbs and Dietary Supplements

True unicorn root may interact with antiulcer agents and estrogens.
Attribution

This information is based on a systematic review of scientific literature edited and

peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration
(www.naturalstandard.com).
Bibliography
1.
Bloyer WE. Chamaelirium: Eclectic Materia Medica; Helonias, False unicorn root,
Blazing star. Medical Herbalism: A Journal for the Clinical Practitioner 1898;10(3):18-20.
2.
Rajkumar R, Srivastava SK, Yadav MC., et al. Effect of a Homeopathic complex on
oestrus induction and hormonal profile in anoestrus cows. Homeopathy 2006;95(3):131135.
3.
Yarnell E, Abascal K, Greenfield RH, et al. Credentialing of practitioners of botanical
medicine. Am J Med Qual 2002;17(1):15-20.