Squaw Vine Cert. Organic

Common Name: Partridge berry; Botanical Name: Mitchella repens

Traditional use:

After a long history as a uterine tonic by North America’s indigenous population, partridge berry was adopted by the Eclectic Physicians, who administered it to susceptible women to prevent miscarriage and to prepare for labour, as its use “will often favour a mild and speedy delivery” and is preferable to resorting to forceps. (2)

Squaw vine is part of a combination of herbal medicines that have been traditionally used in the third trimester to prepare a woman for delivery. Similar herbs are Black cohosh Cimicifuga racemosa, Raspberry Rubus idaeus, Blue cohosh Caulophyllum thalictroides (3) and Milk thistle Silybum marianum.

One the best remedies for preparing the uterus for child birth. For this purpose this herb should be taken under professional supervision, for some weeks before the child is due, thus ensuring a safe birth. Squaw Vine may also be used for the relief of painful periods and colitis.

For external use, the tea makes a good wash for sore eyes and skin problems. Has also been used in Native Americans tribes to relieve insomnia.

1. PFAF. Squaw vine 2019.
2. Westfall RE. Herbal medicine in pregnancy and childbirth. Advances in Therapy. 2001;18(1):47-55.
3. Edward Mills J-JD, Dan Perri, Gideon Koren. Herbal Medicines in Pregnancy and Lactation An Evidence-Based Approach: Taylor & Francis Medical, an imprint of the Taylor & Francis Group; 2006.