American Ipecac

Two closely related species of rhizomatous woodland perennials belong to this eastern N American genus. Gillenia trifoliata is widely grown as an ornamental for its elegant display of white flowers. Gillenia stipulata, similar in both properties and appearance, is found farther south in the wild. They are distinguished mainly by the number of leaflets: three in the case of G. trifoliata and five in the case of G. stipulata (the two extra ones are actually stipules). Gillenia trifoliata was known to many N American tribes and was adopted by the early colonists. It was listed in the U.S. Pharmacopoeia (1820-82). The same common names are generally shared between G. trifoliata and G. stipulata.

Erect herbaceous perennial with branched, red-green stalks, and trifoliate, deeply toothed and veined leaves, to 8cm (3in) long. White or pink-tinged flowers, 1-2cm (3/8-¾:in) across, with narrow petals and red-green calyces, are borne in loose panicles in late spring and summer.

Common Name:	American Ipecac
Other Names:	Indian Physic, Bowman's Root
Botanical Name:	Gillenia trifoliata syn Porteranthus trifoliatus.
Genus:	Gillenia
Family:	Rosaceae
Native Location:	Eastern N America
Cultivation:	Moist, well-drained, neutral to acid soil in partial shade.
Propagation:	By seed sown when ripe; by division in autumn or spring.
Harvest:	Roots are lifted in early autumn and stripped of bark, which is dried for use in decoctions and powders.
Height:	1-1.2m (3-4ft)
Width:	60cm (24in)
Hardiness:	Z4-8
Parts Used:	Root bark.
Properties:	An emetic herb, similar in effects to Cephaelis ipecacuanha (See, ipecac). It also has purgative and expectorant effects. Small doses act as a stimulant.
Medicinal Uses:	Internally, in small doses, for feverish illnesses, chronic diarrhea, constipation, and bronchial and asthmatic complaints.
Bibliography:	Encylopedia of Herbs by Deni Brown Copyright ©: 1995, 2001 Dorling Kindersley Limited pg 224