Bloodroot has long been used by Native Americans to induce vomiting, the practice of which is believed to cleanse the body of harmful toxins.
Bloodroot is often used in alternative medicine as a topical or oral antibacterial agent. When used internally, bloodroot is believed to relax smooth muscles, particularly in the heart and lungs.
Bloodroot is often used to treat flu, common colds, sinus infections, and lung infections. It is believed to act as an expectorant, eliminating phlegm and mucus in the airways.