Bloodroot, scientifically known as Sanguinaria canadensis, is a plant native to North America, containing bioactive compounds that interrupt biological processes. It has been around for centuries and is known for its medicinal properties. Today, naturopathic remedies are becoming more and more popular, especially for skin ailments. A huge number of online vendors market their bloodroot‐containing products as cures for skin cancer without any scientific evidence supporting such claims. Clinical data concerning bloodroot efficacy primarily comes from case studies with unfavorable outcomes involving patients who self‐treated with bloodroot‐containing black salves. However, recent preclinical studies have shown that sanguinarine, the active component of bloodroot, shows positive evidence of being an efficacious treatment for skin cancers at micromolar doses. This article reviews the mechanism of bloodroot action as a skin cancer treatment, its misuse in clinical dermatology, and the FDA’s stance on products containing bloodroot that are marketed and sold to laypersons. Members of the public should be aware of the dangers of self‐treating with bloodroot‐containing products through effective communication and education by clinicians.
However, doctors and researchers are still working on more case studies to find out more positive outcomes to help the medical world.
Ref: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ijd.15273
