Botanical Overview
Redroot (Lachnanthes tinctoria) belongs to the Haemodoraceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. This species belongs to the Haemodoraceae family, a group of flowering plants.

Geographic Distribution
Redroot has been recorded in Cuba, United States, and ZZ.
Traditional Uses
Redroot has been traditionally used for respiratory conditions.
Respiratory conditions.
- Cough
- Pneumonia
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 12 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage