Liliaceae Veratrum californicum Dur.
California False Hellebore
Washo - Drug, Contraceptive
Use documented by:
Murphey, Edith Van Allen, 1990, Indian Uses of Native Plants, Glenwood, Ill. Meyerbooks. Originally published in 1959, page 46
View all documented uses for
Veratrum californicum Dur.
Scientific name: Veratrum californicum Dur.
USDA symbol: VECAC2 (
View details at USDA PLANTS site)
Common names: California False Hellebore
Family: Liliaceae
Family (APG): Nartheciaceae
Native American Tribe: Washo
Use category: Drug
Use sub-category: Contraceptive
Notes: Infusion of fresh or cured root taken for birth control to ensure sterility for life.
RECRD: 21067 id: 42623