False Unicorn

Uses

Botanical names:
Chamaelirium luteum

Parts Used & Where Grown

False unicorn is native to Mississippi and continues to grow primarily in the southern part of the United States. The roots of false unicorn are most commonly used in herbal medicine.

What Are Star Ratings?

This supplement has been used in connection with the following health conditions:

Used for Why
1 Star
Dysmenorrhea
Refer to label instructions
False unicorn was used in the Native American tradition for a large number of women’s health conditions, including painful menstruation.

was used in the Native American tradition for a large number of women’s health conditions, including painful menstruation. Generally, false unicorn root is taken as a tincture (2–5 ml three times per day). The dried root may also be used (1–2 grams three times daily). It is typically taken in combination with other herbs supportive of the female reproductive organs.

Traditional Use (May Not Be Supported by Scientific Studies)

The medicinal use of false unicorn root is based in traditional Native American herbalism. It was recommended for many women’s health conditions, including dysmenorrhea (painful menstruation) and other irregularities of menstruation, as well as to prevent miscarriages.1 False unicorn was also used as a remedy for morning sickness.

How It Works

Botanical names:
Chamaelirium luteum

How It Works

Steroidal saponins are generally credited with providing false unicorn root’s activity.2 However, modern investigations have not confirmed this, and no research exists about the medical applications of this herb.

How to Use It

False unicorn root tincture, 1/2–1 teaspoon (2–5 ml) three times per day, is sometimes recommended .3 The dried root, 1/4–1/2 teaspoon (1–2 grams) three times per day, is also used.

Interactions

Botanical names:
Chamaelirium luteum

Interactions with Supplements, Foods, & Other Compounds

At the time of writing, there were no well-known supplement or food interactions with this supplement.

Interactions with Medicines

As of the last update, we found no reported interactions between this supplement and medicines. It is possible that unknown interactions exist. If you take medication, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a new supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.
The Drug-Nutrient Interactions table may not include every possible interaction. Taking medicines with meals, on an empty stomach, or with alcohol may influence their effects. For details, refer to the manufacturers’ package information as these are not covered in this table. If you take medications, always discuss the potential risks and benefits of adding a supplement with your doctor or pharmacist.

Side Effects

Botanical names:
Chamaelirium luteum

Side Effects

No adverse effects have been reported with the use of false unicorn. Although false unicorn has been used historically for nausea and vomiting of pregnancy and to prevent miscarriages, its actions as a possible uterine tonic make its use during pregnancy potentially unsafe.

References

1. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Middlesex, UK: Viking Arkana, 1991, 520-2.

2. Mills SY. Out of the Earth: The Essential Book of Herbal Medicine. Middlesex, UK: Viking Arkana, 1991, 520-2.

3. Newall CA, Anderson LA, Phillipson JD. Herbal Medicines: A Guide for Health-Care Professionals. London: Pharmaceutical Press, 1996, 116.

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