Bistort (Persicaria bistorta): Uses, Tea Recipe & Safety

Bistort is a leafy plant whose thick root has been used for centuries as an astringent and wound remedy. You’ll see it called bistort root, snakeweed, or meadowsweet’s cousin in older herbals. People traditionally used the root for diarrhea, mouth sores, and to help stop minor bleeding. The active stuff is mainly tannins, which tighten tissues and slow secretions.

What people use bistort for

If you have a quick case of mild diarrhea, a warm bistort tea can calm things down because tannins reduce gut irritation. It’s also used as a mouthwash for sore gums, a gargle for throat inflammation, and a poultice for small cuts or grazes to control bleeding and help the skin close up. Folk medicine also lists it for heavy periods and hemorrhoids—again, because it’s an astringent that reduces fluid loss.

How to prepare and use bistort safely

Tea: Use 1–2 teaspoons of dried bistort root per cup of hot water. Steep 10–15 minutes, strain, and sip warm. One to three cups a day is common in traditional use for short periods. Avoid drinking it constantly for weeks—short courses work best.

Poultice: Crush fresh or rehydrated root into a paste and apply to clean skin for bleeding cuts or swollen spots. Cover with a clean cloth and change the dressing daily. Stop if the area shows signs of infection (increasing pain, redness, pus), and see a professional.

Tincture and extracts: Commercial tinctures exist. If you use one, follow the label or talk to an herbalist. Typical herbalist guidance suggests small doses two or three times a day, but product concentrations vary widely, so labels matter.

Quick tip: for mouth or throat use, let the tea cool and use it as a rinse or gentle gargle—don’t swallow large amounts if you’re only treating the mouth.

Safety and interactions: Because bistort is high in tannins, it can reduce iron absorption—avoid taking it with iron supplements or iron-rich meals. People with bleeding disorders or on blood-thinning meds should check with a doctor before use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid using bistort unless a clinician approves it. Stop use and seek care if you get stomach pain, rash, or any allergic reaction.

Sourcing and storage: Buy dried root from a reputable herbal supplier and make sure the botanical name is Persicaria bistorta. Store dried root in an airtight jar away from heat and light; it keeps best for about a year to two years. Fresh roots can be more potent but must be handled and stored carefully.

If you’re curious about trying bistort, start small, use it short term, and check with a healthcare provider if you take medications or have chronic health issues. It’s a straightforward herb with a long history—useful when treated with common-sense precautions.