Bloodroot is an early spring wildflower that grows in woodlands of the eastern United States and Canada. The stout rhizome oozes with a bright red latex when cut, giving the plant its common name. The root and rhizome are collected in the fall for medicinal use.

The root was used in the 19th century medicine as a caustic topical treatment for skin cancers, polyps, and warts. The extract may be used in creams and ointments for topical use for the above conditions.