BEECHDROPS
Epifagus americanus, Orobanche virginiana
COMMON NAME: Cancer root.
FEATURES: A parasite of the family Orobanchaceae (broomrape family). The name cancer root is applied
to several of the root parasites but more specifically to the beech-drops or cancer drops of the beech tree
roots.
The low wiry plant has pale brown, dull red, or light brown stems usually marked with fine brown
purple lines. The stem has leaf scales but no leaves. The root is scaly and tuberous. Altogether the taste is
disagreeably astringent. The August and September flowers are white in the upper corolla, about 1
centimeter long, striped with brown-purple, and sterile; the less conspicuous lower flowers bear seeds.
MEDICINAL PARTS: Tops, stems, root.
SOLVENTS: Water, alcohol.
BODILY INFLUENCE: Astringent.
USES: This plant has been used by folk medicine and homeopaths for cancer, hence the name is commonly
known as cancer root. It has other attributes, especially for asthma, and is valuable in the treatment of
obstinate ulcers of the mouth or stomach, and diarrhea.
DOSE: Mainly a folk medicine, the amount to be taken is not mentioned in herbal practice in English or
Russian literature. Unless given by persons of experience, it is best prescribed by the medical profession.
Further research is needed both in North America and abroad. The long-established homeopathic
practice makes use of its properties in the form of extracts and tinctures.
EXTERNALLY: Of use for all dermatitis inflammations, broken or unbroken skin conditions.
HOMEOPATHIC CLINICAL: Tincture of whole fresh plant in full flower for diarrhea, gonorrhea, headaches,
palpitations.