Spigelia marilandica
Pinkroot – a perennial herb, 1-2 feet tall, with several smooth, four-sided, purplish-colored stems, each ending in a one-sided spike of 4-12 flowers. Stalkless opposite leaves, 2-4 inches long, are somewhat oval with a pointed tip. Flowers (May-July) are showy 2-inch-long funnels with flaring lobes, red outside and yellow inside.
PARTS USED: Root
USES
Pinkroot is used today solely to expel intestinal worms -particularly tapeworms and roundworms. Pinkroot is prescribed with other herbs such as senna and fennel to ensure the elimination of both the worms and the root itself: which is potentially toxic if it is absorbed through the gut.