~*~ Foundation of Healing ~*~
Heals wounds, purifies blood
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Type: Herb (Flowering Plant) Rarity: Common Cost: 5 gp per sprig (fresh), 2 gp (dried) |
Primary Use: Healing Shelf Life: 1 week fresh, 6 months dried Danger Level: Safe |
Bloodroot is a small flowering plant with distinctive white petals and a deep crimson root system. The flowers bloom in early spring and last only 1-2 days. The plant gets its name from the bright red sap that flows from broken roots, which stains hands and cloth a rusty orange color. The leaves are broad and lobed, appearing after the flowers fade. When crushed, fresh bloodroot has a faint metallic scent, while dried root smells earthy and slightly sweet.
Bloodroot is the cornerstone ingredient in most healing potions. It has natural regenerative properties that accelerate tissue repair and blood cell production. The red sap contains vitality essence, which transfers to any liquid it's steeped in. Works particularly well with Silverweed for enhanced healing effects. Associated with the school of Conjuration (healing) magic. When properly prepared, bloodroot turns liquids a distinctive pink-to-red color, indicating its potency.
Location: Grows in shaded woodlands, particularly near streams and in rich soil. Common in temperate forests throughout Valoria. Look for it under oak and maple trees. Most abundant in the Neverwinter Wood and Dalelands.
Harvesting: Best harvested at dawn when the dew is still present. Gently dig around the root system to avoid breaking the tap root. The most potent bloodroot is harvested just as flowers bloom. Difficulty: Easy. No special tools needed beyond a small trowel. No significant dangers, though the staining sap can be annoying.
Alternatives: Available from most herbalists and alchemical suppliers in any town with 500+ population. Dried bloodroot is cheaper but slightly less effective. Some healers grow it in garden plots.
Fresh Use: Wash roots gently to remove dirt. Bruise or lightly crush to release the red sap before adding to potions. Do not grind into paste—this destroys the vitality essence.
Drying: Hang roots upside down in a cool, dark place for 1 week. Once fully dried, they can be stored in cloth bags away from moisture. Dried roots must be rehydrated in warm water for 10 minutes before use.
Bloodroot is generally very safe to handle. The red sap stains clothing and skin (washes out with soap and water). Not recommended for consumption in raw form—always brew into potions first. Eating raw bloodroot causes mild nausea but no lasting harm. Store away from moonflower and nightshade, as proximity can cause cross-contamination of properties.
"Legend says bloodroot first grew where a healer's tears fell after saving a dying child.
The tears mixed with the child's spilled blood, and from that sacred ground, bloodroot bloomed.
Whether or not you believe the tale, there's no denying this humble plant has saved
countless lives. Every apprentice alchemist should learn to identify it in the wild.
It's the difference between life and death for adventurers far from civilization."
- From "The Gentle Herbalist's Companion" by Elara Greenleaf